மணிமேகலை

Manimegalai

girlTamilBuddhistHindu

Manimegalai is a Buddhist girl name of Tamil, from Sanskrit elements origin, meaning “Jewelled girdle”.

MeaningJewelled girdle
GenderGirl
OriginTamil, from Sanskrit elements
Written asமணிமேகலை
PronunciationMUH-ni-may-guh-lai
TraditionBuddhist, Hindu
Used inIndia, Sri Lanka, Malaysia

Meaning and origin of Manimegalai

Manimegalai joins mani, 'jewel', with mekalai, 'girdle' or 'waist-belt', and is the title of one of the five great epics of classical Tamil literature, attributed to the poet Sīthalai Sāthanār. Its heroine Manimegalai, the daughter of Kovalan and the dancer Madhavi, renounces the world and becomes a Buddhist nun. The name is also linked with the sea goddess Manimekhala, who protects the heroine.

Is Manimegalai a Buddhist name?

The epic is a Buddhist work, so the name has Buddhist roots, but it is chosen by Tamil families of various backgrounds for its literary heritage.

How popular is Manimegalai?

Used among Tamil families, though uncommon for newborns.

Gifts with the name Manimegalai

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Spellings and variants of Manimegalai

ManimekalaiManimekhala

Names similar to Manimegalai

KannagiMadhaviIlakkiyaMalar

More Buddhist girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Manimegalai mean?

Manimegalai means 'Jewelled girdle'. It is of Tamil, from Sanskrit elements origin.

Is Manimegalai a Buddhist name?

The epic is a Buddhist work, so the name has Buddhist roots, but it is chosen by Tamil families of various backgrounds for its literary heritage.

How do you pronounce Manimegalai?

Manimegalai is pronounced MUH-ni-may-guh-lai.

Is Manimegalai a boy or girl name?

Manimegalai is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.