शान्तनु

Shantanu

boySanskritHindu

Shantanu is a Hindu boy name of Sanskrit origin, meaning “Wholesome; peaceful of body”.

MeaningWholesome; peaceful of body
GenderBoy
OriginSanskrit
Written asशान्तनु
PronunciationSHAHN-ta-noo
TraditionHindu
Used inIndia, Bangladesh

Meaning and origin of Shantanu

Shantanu is an ancient name best known from the Mahabharata, where King Shantanu of Hastinapura marries the river goddess Ganga and later Satyavati, and is the father of Bhishma. Its meaning is usually given as 'wholesome' or 'whose body is at peace', from shan, 'welfare, peace', and tanu, 'body', though the analysis is not certain. It is used throughout India and is especially popular in Bengal and Maharashtra.

Is Shantanu a Hindu name?

Shantanu is a Hindu epic name tied to the Kuru dynasty of the Mahabharata. Choosing it recalls the royal lineage of Bhishma and the Pandavas rather than a particular god.

How popular is Shantanu?

A steady, well-known name across India, especially among Bengali and Marathi families.

Gifts with the name Shantanu

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Spellings and variants of Shantanu

SantanuShantnu

Names similar to Shantanu

More Hindu boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Shantanu mean?

Shantanu means 'Wholesome; peaceful of body'. It is of Sanskrit origin.

Is Shantanu a Hindu name?

Shantanu is a Hindu epic name tied to the Kuru dynasty of the Mahabharata. Choosing it recalls the royal lineage of Bhishma and the Pandavas rather than a particular god.

How do you pronounce Shantanu?

Shantanu is pronounced SHAHN-ta-noo.

Is Shantanu a boy or girl name?

Shantanu is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.