1441+ Marathi Baby Names with Meanings

Calling All Marathi Parents-to-Be: Let's Name That Little Star! 

Congratulations on your upcoming bundle of joy! Deciding on a Marathi baby name for your young one isn't just about ticking a box on a form. It's a big deal! Whatever name you choose will stick with your little star forever, so you want it to be perfect (and maybe a bit trendy?)—feeling the pressure? No worries, Mom&Tiny will help you tread this incredible journey.

Our research and interactions with our Maharashtrian friends discovered that while modern parents prefer selecting names that are unique or in vogue, they also want to honour their rich culture and family traditions. Names taking inspiration from gods and goddesses, great Maratha warriors from the past, revered rivers, beautiful nature, or other influential personalities from Maharashtra's rich history are trendy among urban Marathi parents.

So, let's find that perfect name from our exhaustive list of Marathi baby names that capture that Maratha magic!

How Marathis Name their Babies?

Birth of a newborn is a momentous occasion in any Indian family, and most Marathi Hindu families celebrate the birth with a beautiful tradition called the Namkaran (or Barsa).

When is Naamkaran Performed?

Typically, the Maharashtrian Naamkaran ceremony (also called Barsa) is held on the 12th day after the baby's birth. However, it can be celebrated later, depending on differences in family traditions across Maharashtra and different parts of the country. Some families prefer to hold the ceremony later than the 12th day or the third month after birth.

The primary reason for waiting at least 12 days is to ensure the mother's and infant's health and safety. It gives them enough time to recuperate while also preventing infection, something that has been practised for centuries.

The Ceremonial Setup

With all the relatives gathering together in the house, the house is buzzing with excitement on the big day. Here's a sneak peek into what happens:

Cradle Decoration: The Parents and the family decorate the cradle or bassinet beautifully with flowers and balloons, setting a festive mood. It's a sight to behold and an excellent photo opportunity for your family book!

The Priest's Role: The ceremony begins with a havan or pooja, during which the Priest worships all the Hindu gods and seeks blessings for the newborn child. The Priest also prepares the child's Janam Kundali (birth chart), which determines the first letter of the baby's name.

The Key Rituals

Aukshan: Barsa rituals kick off with ''Aukshan,'' where the family lights a lamp and, along with the Priest, performs a ceremonial aarti (a prayer ritual) to ward off evil spirits and bless the baby.

Oati Bharna: This ritual involves giving the baby an auspicious coconut and other traditional items, symboling prosperity and good luck.

Khaleeta: The name, written on paper, is moved over the cradle. This is a symbolic way to bless the name and the child.

The Big Announcement: The paternal aunt (bua) or father's sister has the special honour of whispering the baby's name into their ear. The family cherishes this intimate moment.

Songs and Celebrations

Close relatives sing traditional songs throughout the ceremony. These songs are often filled with blessings and good wishes for the baby. It’s a lovely way to keep the atmosphere joyful and lively.

The Feast

No Indian celebration is complete without a feast, and Barsa is no exception. Following the naming ceremony, a lavish feast is planned so family and friends may celebrate the new addition to the family. Delicious Maharashtrian dishes are served, and everyone enjoys a hearty meal together.

Modern Touches

Even though Barsa is deeply rooted in tradition, many modern folks like to add contemporary twists to the ceremony. Some end the puja with a themed party, professional photographers are hired to cover the entire ceremony, or the event is even live-streamed for relatives who can’t attend in person. These additions make the event even more memorable and inclusive.