NomOrigine Background

Origin and meaning of the name Govinda

What is the origin of the name Govinda?

The name "Govinda" is of Sanskrit origin. In Sanskrit, "govinda" is a compound word formed from two roots: "go" meaning "cow" and "vinda" meaning "delighter" or "enjoyer". So, "Govinda" can be translated as "one who delights in cows" or more metaphorically, "one who cares for all living beings". This name is significant in Hinduism where Lord Krishna is often referred to by this name.

Learn more about the origin of the name Govinda

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Govinda

Govinda is a Sanskrit male given name that has its origins in ancient India, particularly within Hindu culture. The name derives from the Sanskrit word 'Govinda,' which means 'the one who delights in cows' or 'the protector of cows.' In Hindu mythology, Govinda is an epithet used for Lord Krishna, who was known for his deep affection towards cows and his role as a cowherd. This name is also associated with the concept of 'gopala,' meaning 'cow herder' or 'protector of cows.' The name Govinda symbolizes a connection to Hindu traditions and spirituality, emphasizing love, protection, and nurturing qualities.

Character traits associated with the name Govinda

The name Govinda is often associated with individuals who possess a strong sense of devotion and spirituality. In Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna was known as Govinda, which signifies one who takes care of cows and the embodiment of all virtues. People named Govinda are believed to exhibit qualities such as compassion, kindness, and a deep connection with nature. They are also thought to be intelligent, witty, and have a strong sense of humor. Additionally, Govindas are often regarded as creative, artistic, and musically inclined, much like Lord Krishna who was known for his flute playing. Overall, the name Govinda suggests an individual with a strong spiritual foundation, a kind and compassionate nature, and a creative, artistic mindset.

Popularity of the name Govinda

The name Govinda is of Indian origin and is widely popular within the Hindu community. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "govinda," meaning "cowherd" or "one who tends cows." This name has historical significance as it is one of the many names used to refer to Lord Krishna, a central figure in Hinduism. The popularity of the name Govinda can be attributed to its religious connotations and cultural significance among Hindus. It is particularly prevalent in countries like India, Nepal, and other regions with significant Hindu populations. In recent times, there has been a growing trend of Indian names gaining recognition globally, which has also contributed to the increasing popularity of the name Govinda outside its traditional strongholds. Despite this, it remains relatively uncommon in Western cultures.

Famous people with the name Govinda

Govinda is a name shared by several notable figures across various fields, reflecting its prominence and versatility. In the realm of Bollywood cinema, Govinda (born Govind Arun Ahuja) has made an indelible mark as a comedian and dancer, achieving massive popularity throughout the 1990s with hits like "Hero No. 1" and "Coolie No. 1." Additionally, in India's political sphere, Govind Ballabh Pant was an influential statesman who served as the first Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and contributed significantly to India's Constitution-making process. Beyond borders, Govinda Reddy was a distinguished Indian-American scholar who made groundbreaking contributions to the field of computer science at Stanford University. These individuals exemplify the diverse accomplishments that can be achieved under the name Govinda.

Variations of the name Govinda

The Sanskrit name Govinda has several variations, each carrying a unique charm and cultural significance. The most common variations include:

1. Govind: This is a direct transliteration of the original name and is widely used in India and among Hindu communities worldwide. It means "one who delights or satisfies the senses".
2. Govinda Raj: This variation adds 'Raj' which means king, implying a ruler who delights or satisfies the senses.
3. Govind Prasad: In this variant, 'Prasad', which means blessed food offered to a deity, is added. This suggests that the bearer of this name is one who offers blessings to others.
4. Govind Kumar: Here, 'Kumar' is added, which means prince or youth. This variation implies a young ruler who delights or satisfies the senses.
5. Govinda Sharan: In this case, 'Sharan', meaning refuge, is added. This suggests that the bearer of this name seeks refuge in the one who delights or satisfies the senses, typically referring to Lord Krishna.
6. Govind Swami: By adding 'Swami' (master or teacher), this variant implies a spiritual master who delights or satisfies the senses.
7. Govinda Das: Here, 'Das', meaning servant, is added. This suggests that the bearer of this name is a devoted servant of one who delights or satisfies the senses, again typically referring to Lord Krishna.
8. Govind Nath: In this variation, 'Nath' which means lord, is added. This implies the bearer of this name as the lord who delights or satisfies the senses, often referring to deities such as Krishna or Vishnu.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 14 June 2025

Share the origin and meaning of your name with your friends

Search the origin of a first name

Enter the first name you are looking for below:

Similar First Names

Govaind narayan (First name)

forenames > govaind-narayan

The name Govind Narayan is of Indian origin. Govind is a variant of the name Govinda, which is a name of Lord Krishna, a Hindu deity. Narayan is also a name of Lord Vishnu, another...

Govamma (First name)

forenames > govamma

The origin of the first name "Govamma" is Indian.

Govantha (First name)

forenames > govantha

The origin of the first name "Govantha" is Sanskrit.

Govar (First name)

forenames > govar

The name Govar is of Armenian origin. It is derived from the Armenian word "gov", which means "light" or "shining".

Govardan (First name)

forenames > govardan

The name "Govardan" has its origin in Indian languages, particularly in Hindu culture. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "Govardhana," which means "the one who nourishes cows" o...

Govardhan r (First name)

forenames > govardhan-r

The first name "Govardhan" is of Indian origin. It comes from Sanskrit and means "lord of cows" or "protector of cows".

Govardhane (First name)

forenames > govardhane

The name "Govardhane" is of Indian origin. It is derived from Sanskrit and is commonly used in Hindu culture.

Govarthan (First name)

forenames > govarthan

The name Govarthan is of Indian origin. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "Govardhana," which means "the king of cows." It is a masculine name often used in Hindu culture.

Govenor (First name)

forenames > govenor

The name "Govenor" is of English origin, derived from the Old French word "governor," ultimately from the Latin word "gubernator," meaning "helmsman" or "ship's captain." It has hi...

Governs ptna (First name)

forenames > governs-ptna

The name "Governes" is of English origin and is derived from the Old French name "Gauvain," which ultimately comes from the Welsh name "Gwalchgwyn," meaning "white hawk" or "hawk o...

Govi gaja (First name)

forenames > govi-gaja

The origin of the first name "Govi Gaja" is unclear and may potentially be of multiple cultural origins.

Goviand (First name)

forenames > goviand

The name Goviand is of Sanskrit origin. It is a combination of the names Govind and Anand, which means "joyful cowherd" in Sanskrit. It is a name commonly used in Hindu culture.

Goviand kumar (First name)

forenames > goviand-kumar

Please wait, data loading. It may take 1 minute or 2...

Govibbii (First name)

forenames > govibbii

The origin of the name "Govibbii" is unclear as it does not appear to have a known etymology or historical source.

Govidnashih (First name)

forenames > govidnashih

The name "Govindnashih" is of Indian origin. It is derived from the Sanskrit name "Govind" which means "Lord Krishna" or "The one who tends cows" and the suffix "-nashih" which mea...