पाञ्चाली

Panchali

girlSanskritHindu

Panchali is a Hindu girl name of Sanskrit origin, meaning “Princess of Panchala”.

MeaningPrincess of Panchala
GenderGirl
OriginSanskrit
Written asपाञ्चाली
PronunciationPAAN-chaa-lee
TraditionHindu
Used inIndia

Meaning and origin of Panchali

Panchali means 'woman of Panchala', the ancient kingdom of King Drupada, and it is one of the names of Draupadi, heroine of the Mahabharata. Draupadi, born from a sacrificial fire, married the five Pandava brothers, and her humiliation in the dice game and appeal to Krishna are among the epic's most famous scenes. The Tamil poet Subramania Bharati retold her story in Panchali Sabatham, which made the name especially resonant in South India.

Is Panchali a Hindu name?

Panchali is a Hindu name taken directly from the Mahabharata, honouring Draupadi, who is worshipped as a goddess in parts of Tamil Nadu.

How popular is Panchali?

An uncommon given name, chosen by families with a strong attachment to the epic.

Gifts with the name Panchali

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Spellings and variants of Panchali

Paanchali

Names similar to Panchali

DraupadiKrishnaaYajnaseniKunti

More Hindu girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Panchali mean?

Panchali means 'Princess of Panchala'. It is of Sanskrit origin.

Is Panchali a Hindu name?

Panchali is a Hindu name taken directly from the Mahabharata, honouring Draupadi, who is worshipped as a goddess in parts of Tamil Nadu.

How do you pronounce Panchali?

Panchali is pronounced PAAN-chaa-lee.

Is Panchali a boy or girl name?

Panchali is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.