Kamala

Meaning of Kamala

Kamala is a feminine given name of Sanskrit derivation, signifying “lotus” and historically serving as an epithet of the Hindu goddess Lakshmi. Phonologically, it is realized in Sanskrit as /kʌˈmʌlʌ/ and in English as /kəˈmɑlə/, reflecting a systematic shift in vowel quality upon adoption into Anglo-American usage. An analysis of U.S. Social Security data indicates that Kamala has consistently maintained a position within the top 1,000 female names since the early 1950s, with its rank oscillating in response to cultural visibility—most recently recording 13 occurrences at rank 937 in 2024. This longitudinal profile exhibits both episodic peaks and troughs, suggesting that the name’s resonance derives from its classical heritage and periodic amplification through prominent bearers, thereby informing contemporary naming practices seeking a balance of historical gravitas and modern relevance.