10 baby girl names that mean ‘lotus flower’

Lotus in Hindu thought — a brief introduction

The lotus (Sanskrit: padma — ‘lotus’) is one of the most enduring symbols in Hinduism. It appears across Vedas, Purāṇas, and classical poetry and is used by Vaiṣṇava, Śaiva, Śākta and Smārta traditions to convey a range of meanings: purity that remains unstained despite the mud (worldly attachment), spiritual unfolding and blossoming, beauty, and the seat or emblem of deities such as Lakṣmī and Brahmā. In tantric and Bhakti contexts the lotus also signifies inner chakras and the opening of consciousness; commentators and traditions sometimes differ in emphasis, but the image remains pervasive and auspicious.

Below are ten girl’s names that either mean ‘lotus’ directly or derive from lotus-related Sanskrit nouns and epithets. For each name you will find a simple pronunciation guide, the core meaning, and brief cultural or scriptural notes. Interpretations can vary by region and community; consider family and ritual preferences when choosing a name.

Padma

• Pronunciation: PAD-ma
• Meaning: From Sanskrit padma — ‘lotus’.
• Notes: A classic and widely used name; also an epithet of Lakṣmī. Appears in poetic and religious literature including the Purāṇas. Common nicknames: Padmi, Padi.

Kamala

• Pronunciation: KA-ma-la
• Meaning: ‘Lotus’ or ‘pale-red’ (Sanskrit kamala), often used for the lotus flower itself.
• Notes: Another epithet of Lakṣmī in Vaiṣṇava tradition; used widely across India and also carries connotations of beauty and grace. Nicknames: Kami, Kamu.

Padminī

• Pronunciation: pud-MEE-nee or paad-MEE-nee
• Meaning: ‘She of lotuses’ or ‘lotus-bearing’ — feminine derivative of padma.
• Notes: Found in classical Sanskrit poetry as an adjective and name; evokes refinement and abundance. Nicknames: Mini, Paddi.

Padmavatī

• Pronunciation: pad-ma-VA-tee
• Meaning: ‘Possessing lotuses’ or ‘one who has lotuses’ (suffix -vatī indicates possession).
• Notes: Used historically as a theophoric and royal name; several temples and local goddesses are known by this name in different regions.

Pankaja

• Pronunciation: PAN-ka-ja
• Meaning: Literally ‘born of the mud’ (panka = mud, -ja = born) — a classical Sanskrit synonym for lotus.
• Notes: Emphasises the lotus’ emergence from impurity into beauty; used in poetry and as a feminine name. Nicknames: Panka, Panku.

Nālini

• Pronunciation: NAH-lee-nee
• Meaning: ‘Lotus’ or ‘lotus-petaled’ in Sanskrit.
• Notes: Appears often in devotional and lyrical literature. The name feels classical and literary; diminutives include Nalu or Lini.

Kumud/Kumudini

• Pronunciation: KOO-mood / KOO-moo-DEE-nee
• Meaning: Kumuda is a name for the water-lily/lotus; kumudini is the feminine form often used poetically for ‘lotus-like’ or ‘lotus-bearing’.
• Notes: The term features in classical botanical descriptions and poetry; Kumudini has a lyrical tone and rural/Harvest associations in some folk contexts.

Utpala

• Pronunciation: OOT-pa-la
• Meaning: A blue or dark lotus; utpala is used in Sanskrit for certain lotus varieties.
• Notes: Found in poetry and can be associated with Sarasvatī imagery in some regional usages. Utpala is relatively uncommon as a modern given name, which may appeal to parents seeking rarity.

Kamalini

• Pronunciation: ka-ma-LEE-nee
• Meaning: ‘Lotus-like’ or ‘one who is among lotuses’ — derived from kamala.
• Notes: Feminine and gentle in tone; used in both modern and classical contexts. Variants include Kamala, Kamalika.

Ambujā

• Pronunciation: um-BOO-jah
• Meaning: ‘Born of the water’ (ambuja) — a common Sanskrit epithet for the lotus.
• Notes: Ambujā is also an epithet for goddesses such as Lakṣmī and appears in devotional literature. The form Ambuja or Ambujaa is used in many Indian languages.

Choosing and using a lotus name — practical notes

Many of these names are classical Sanskrit terms and have been adapted into regional pronunciations and scripts (Devanagari, Bengali, Kannada, Tamil, etc.). When selecting a name, families often consider sound, local language fit, astrological or ritual practices, and how the name will be shortened in daily use. Because interpretations and temple associations can vary by community, it is respectful to consult family elders or a trusted priest if religious naming rites are part of your plan.

Finally, the lotus as a motif carries both poetic beauty and layered spiritual meanings. Whether you choose a direct word like Padma or an adjectival form like Padminī, the name will connect the child to a long lineage of symbolism central to many streams of Hindu thought.