Rahul
Rahul is a Sanskrit (India) boy name meaning “Efficient; name of the Buddha's son”.
| Meaning | Efficient; name of the Buddha's son |
|---|---|
| Gender | Boy |
| Origin | Sanskrit (India) |
| Written as | राहुल |
| Pronunciation | RAH-hool |
| Muslim name? | Not a traditional Muslim name |
Meaning and origin of Rahul
Rahul is a Sanskrit-derived boy's name from Indian tradition. Its best-known association is Rāhula, the son of the Buddha, who later became one of his disciples. Modern Indian name lists often give the meaning as 'efficient' or 'capable', while early Buddhist texts tell a story linking the name to a word for a bond or fetter. Because these explanations come from different traditions, it is fair to say the name's meaning is usually given as 'efficient', with the Buddhist story as an older background.
Rahul became one of the most familiar boys' names in India during the twentieth century and is mainly used by Hindu families, although it is also known in Nepal and across the Indian diaspora. It is pronounced RAH-hool, with a clear 'h' in the middle, and the spelling Rahool is sometimes used to show that sound. It is not an Arabic name and has no place in Islamic naming tradition. Muslim parents who like its sound often choose Raheel or Rahil, which are Arabic, or names such as Rayhan.
Famous people named Rahul
- Rahul Dravid — Indian cricketer and former captain of the national team
- Rahul Gandhi — Indian politician and member of parliament
Is Rahul a Muslim name?
Rahul is not a traditional Muslim name. It is a Sanskrit name used mainly by Hindu families. Muslim parents who like the sound often choose the Arabic name Raheel or Rahil instead.
Where is the name Rahul used?
Very common in India.
Gifts with the name Rahul
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a small commission from these links, at no extra cost to you.
Spellings and variants of Rahul
Muslim names similar to Rahul
If you like the sound of Rahul but want a name with an Islamic meaning, consider:
Read more
More boy names like Rahul
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Rahul mean?
Rahul means 'Efficient; name of the Buddha's son'. It comes from Sanskrit (India).
Is Rahul a Muslim name?
Rahul is not a traditional Muslim name. It is a Sanskrit name used mainly by Hindu families. Muslim parents who like the sound often choose the Arabic name Raheel or Rahil instead.
How do you pronounce Rahul?
Rahul is pronounced RAH-hool.
Is Rahul an Arabic name?
No. Rahul is a Sanskrit name from Indian and Buddhist tradition and has no Arabic root.
What Muslim name sounds like Rahul?
Raheel and Rahil are Arabic names with a similar sound; Rayhan and Rafay are other options.
Who was Rahula in Buddhism?
Rahula was the son of the Buddha, who became one of his disciples.