लीला

Leela

girlSanskritHindu

Leela is a Hindu girl name of Sanskrit origin, meaning “Divine play”.

MeaningDivine play
GenderGirl
OriginSanskrit
Written asलीला
PronunciationLEE-laa
TraditionHindu
Used inIndia, Nepal, Worldwide

Meaning and origin of Leela

Leela comes from the Sanskrit lila, 'play' or 'sport'. In Hindu thought the word describes the universe as the spontaneous, joyful play of the divine, rather than something created out of need. It is particularly associated with the childhood and youthful exploits of Krishna. The name is used throughout India and sounds familiar in the West, where Lila and Leila are separate names of different origin.

Is Leela a Hindu name?

Leela is central to Hindu theology as the concept of divine play, especially Krishna's lilas in Vrindavan; the Ras Lila dramas of Braj enact them.

How popular is Leela?

Common in India and increasingly heard among diaspora families.

Gifts with the name Leela

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Spellings and variants of Leela

LilaLeelavatiLilavati

Names similar to Leela

More Hindu girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Leela mean?

Leela means 'Divine play'. It is of Sanskrit origin.

Is Leela a Hindu name?

Leela is central to Hindu theology as the concept of divine play, especially Krishna's lilas in Vrindavan; the Ras Lila dramas of Braj enact them.

How do you pronounce Leela?

Leela is pronounced LEE-laa.

Is Leela a boy or girl name?

Leela is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.