10 Baby Names for Boys that mean ‘Fearless’ (Abhaya), inspired by the Gods

Introduction — the idea of Abhaya (fearlessness)

Abhaya — literally “fearless” in Sanskrit — is a quality celebrated across Hindu traditions. From the reassuring Abhayamudra (the “gesture of protection”) shown by deities and teachers, to epic heroes who face danger without hesitation, fearlessness is both an inner virtue and a divine gift in many texts. Different schools stress different images and names: in Vaiṣṇava devotion you find Narasiṃha and Kṛṣṇa as protectors; in Śaiva lore you have Vīrabhadra and forms of Śiva associated with heroic power; in the Rāmāyaṇa, Hanumāna embodies fearless devotion. Below are ten boy names that mean or convey “fearless,” inspired by gods and sacred traditions. Each entry gives meaning, a short note on scriptural or cultural resonance, pronunciation, and a practical note for parents.

Names

• Abhaya (uh-BHA-ya) — fearless, without fear

  Literal Sanskrit word for “fearlessness.” Found in many religious contexts (e.g., Abhayamudra, used by Buddha and many gods) as an assurance of protection. A direct, traditional choice that is pan-Indian and easy to pronounce.

• Ajit (uh-JIT) — unconquered, invincible

  A classical Sanskrit name: “a-” (not) + “jit” (conquered). Used as an epithet for divine figures (Kṛṣṇa, Śiva) and heroic kings in Puranic and epic literature. Short and traditional, common across regions.

• Ajaya (uh-JAH-ya) — unvanquished, undefeatable

  Very close in sense to Ajit. Literary and epic usage describes warriors and princes who do not yield. Suitable for families wanting a classical Sanskrit name with a strong, poetic ring.

• Vīra / Veer (VEE-ra / VEER) — hero, brave, valiant

  From the root for heroism. Many divine forms carry this element — for example, Vīrabhadra is a fierce, heroic form of Śiva in Śaiva texts. Widely used in modern Indian languages (Veer, Vir) with straightforward pronunciation.

• Shaurya (SHAU-rya) — valor, courage

  Literally means courage or bravery. Common as a modern name and evocative of martial and moral courage. Works well across languages and is unambiguously positive.

• Mahāvīra / Mahaveer (MAH-aa-VEE-ra / MAH-a-VEER) — great hero

  Literally “great hero.” Historically the name of the 24th Jain Tīrthaṅkara (Mahāvīra), and used as an honorific and personal name across India. If chosen, be mindful of its sacred association in Jain communities and use with respect.

• Hanumān (HAH-noo-maan) — courageous devotee, fearless protector

  Technically the name means “one with a prominent jaw,” but in living tradition Hanumān is the canonical model of fearless strength and devotion in the Rāmāyaṇa. Many families choose this name to evoke loyalty and bravery. Note regional forms like Anjaneya or Maruti.

• Nārasiṃha (NAH-rah-SIM-ha) — man-lion (Vishnu’s fierce avatar)

  Vishnu’s fourth avatāra, who uprooted the tyrant Hiraṇyakaśipu to protect devotees. Nārasiṃha is often invoked as the one who removes fear and grants protection (the sense of abhaya). A powerful devotional name with strong Vaishṇava resonance.

• Kārtikeya / Skanda / Murugan (CAR-ti-KAY-ya / SKUN-da / MUR-gan) — god of war and valor

  Known variously as Kārtikeya, Skanda, Subrahmaṇya, or Murugan, this deity is the commander of the gods and a symbol of youthful courage. The different regional forms carry distinct cultural histories (South India, eastern India, etc.). Good choices if you want a direct link to martial bravery.

• Nirbhik / Nirbhaya (note) (NEER-bhik / NEER-bha-ya)

  Nirbhik literally means “without fear” and is used as a masculine modern name. NirbhayaNirbhik or other classical forms for a similar sense without that contemporary sensitivity.

Quick practical notes for parents

• Pronunciation and spelling: Test how the name sounds with your family surname and in the main languages you use at home.
• Cultural resonance: Some names carry sectarian or canonical associations (for example, Mahāvīra in Jainism, Nārasiṃha in Vaiṣṇavism). If those links matter to your family identity, discuss them with elders or priests.
• Ritual timing: Namakarana (naming) practices vary; many families observe the 11th day (ekādaśī) but customs differ by region and community—check family tradition rather than following a one-size-fits-all rule.
• Sensitivity: Avoid names that have strong recent socio-political baggage unless you intend that reference; consider how the name will be received publicly and in school.

Closing

Choosing a name that conveys abhaya connects a child to a long spiritual vocabulary of protection, courage, and divine guardianship. The ten names above range from literal Sanskrit forms to the names of gods and heroes who model fearlessness in epic and devotional literature. Where meanings overlap between traditions, families in India have long navigated those overlaps creatively—so use the name that feels right in your linguistic, religious and familial context.