Kanishka
Kanishka is a Hindu unisex name of Bactrian (Kushan) origin, meaning “Name of a Kushan emperor”.
| Meaning | Name of a Kushan emperor |
|---|---|
| Gender | Unisex |
| Origin | Bactrian (Kushan) |
| Written as | कनिष्क |
| Pronunciation | kuh-NISH-kuh |
| Tradition | Hindu, Buddhist |
| Used in | India, Sri Lanka, Nepal |
Meaning and origin of Kanishka
Kanishka was the most famous ruler of the Kushan Empire, reigning in the second century over lands from Central Asia to the Ganges plain. His name is not originally Sanskrit; its meaning in the Bactrian language is uncertain, though it is often popularly linked to Sanskrit kanishtha, 'youngest' or 'smallest'. In modern India Kanishka is used for boys and, increasingly, for girls.
Is Kanishka a Hindu name?
Kanishka is remembered as a great patron of Buddhism, associated in tradition with a Buddhist council in Kashmir; the name is used by Hindu and Buddhist families without a deity link.
How popular is Kanishka?
A modern favourite in India, used for both boys and girls.
Gifts with the name Kanishka
- Kanishka name necklaces & bracelets (Amazon)
- Personalised Kanishka baby gifts (Amazon)
- Hindu baby gifts & books (Amazon)
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Spellings and variants of Kanishka
Names similar to Kanishka
More Hindu unisex names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Kanishka mean?
Kanishka means 'Name of a Kushan emperor'. It is of Bactrian (Kushan) origin.
Is Kanishka a Hindu name?
Kanishka is remembered as a great patron of Buddhism, associated in tradition with a Buddhist council in Kashmir; the name is used by Hindu and Buddhist families without a deity link.
How do you pronounce Kanishka?
Kanishka is pronounced kuh-NISH-kuh.
Is Kanishka a boy or girl name?
Kanishka is used for both boys and girls.