Boy Name · Sanskrit Origin
Narayana
नारायण
Quick Answer
Narayana (नारायण) is a Sanskrit-origin boy's name meaning "resting on the cosmic waters." It is associated with Hasta nakshatra and Kanya rashi. The Chaldean numerology value is 8 (Power).
Meaning & Etymology
Meaning
resting on the cosmic waters · refuge of all beings · Vishnu
Etymology
From Sanskrit "nara" (water, human, divine man) + "ayana" (abode, movement). Narayana is the supreme form of Vishnu — one who dwells upon the cosmic waters (Narayana = abode of nara/men). One of the most sacred names in Hinduism.
Vedic Astrology Connection
In Vedic tradition, names starting with specific syllables are prescribed for children born under each nakshatra.Narayana begins with "Na", which corresponds to Hasta nakshatra. The ruling planet Moon influences the personality and life path of Narayana.
Numerology of Narayana
Authoritative, ambitious, material. Natural executives and strategists. Ability to manifest goals in the material world.
Calculated using Chaldean numerology system: each letter of "Narayana" maps to a number, and the sum is reduced to a single digit (or master number 11/22). This method is rooted in ancient Babylonian numerology and widely used in Vedic practice.
At a Glance
| Name | Narayana (नारायण) |
| Gender | Boy |
| Meaning | resting on the cosmic waters, refuge of all beings, Vishnu |
| Origin | Sanskrit |
| Syllables | 4 |
| Nakshatra | Hasta |
| Rashi | Kanya |
| Numerology | 8 (Power) |
| Popularity | classic |
| Region | Pan-India, South India, Vaishnavite tradition |
Famous People Named Narayana
- →Lord Vishnu (as Narayana)
- →Narayana Murthy (Indian IT entrepreneur, Infosys)
Similar Names
Why This Name Fits Hasta Nakshatra
In Vedic astrology, the nakshatra (lunar mansion) at the time of birth determines which syllables are auspicious for the child's name. Hastanakshatra prescribes names starting with "Pu", "Sha", "Na", "Tha".Narayana begins with "Na", making it a traditionally appropriate choice for children born under Hasta.
The belief is that using the correct starting syllable aligns the child's name with the vibrational energy of their birth nakshatra, creating harmony between the individual and the cosmos. This practice is recorded in the Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra and is still widely followed across India.
Learn more about Hasta nakshatra →Frequently Asked Questions
What does Narayana mean?
Narayana (नारायण) means "resting on the cosmic waters, refuge of all beings, Vishnu". It is of Sanskrit origin. From Sanskrit "nara" (water, human, divine man) + "ayana" (abode, movement). Narayana is the supreme form of Vishnu — one who dwells upon the cosmic waters (Narayana = abode of nara/men). One of the m...
Which nakshatra is Narayana for?
Narayana is traditionally recommended for children born under Hasta nakshatra, as it starts with the prescribed syllable "Na".
What is the numerology number of Narayana?
The Chaldean numerology number of Narayana is 8, which represents Power: Authoritative, ambitious, material. Natural executives and strategists. Ability to manifest goals in the material world.
Is Narayana a popular name in India?
Narayana is considered a classic name, particularly popular in Pan-India, South India, Vaishnavite tradition.