Boy Name · Sanskrit Origin
Uddhava
उद्धव
Quick Answer
Uddhava (उद्धव) is a Sanskrit-origin boy's name meaning "one who rises." It is associated with Krittika nakshatra and Vrishabha rashi. The Chaldean numerology value is 9 (Compassion).
Meaning & Etymology
Meaning
one who rises · festive · the kindling · he who lifts up
Etymology
From Sanskrit "ut" (up) + "dhava" (going, moving). One who rises upward — also meaning "kindling" of sacred fire. Uddhava was Krishna's closest friend and disciple, described as equal to Krishna in devotion.
Vedic Astrology Connection
In Vedic tradition, names starting with specific syllables are prescribed for children born under each nakshatra.Uddhava begins with "U", which corresponds to Krittika nakshatra. The ruling planet Sun influences the personality and life path of Uddhava.
Numerology of Uddhava
Humanitarian, generous, idealistic. Natural healers and teachers. Global perspective with deep empathy for others.
Calculated using Chaldean numerology system: each letter of "Uddhava" 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 | Uddhava (उद्धव) |
| Gender | Boy |
| Meaning | one who rises, festive, the kindling, he who lifts up |
| Origin | Sanskrit |
| Syllables | 3 |
| Nakshatra | Krittika |
| Rashi | Vrishabha |
| Numerology | 9 (Compassion) |
| Popularity | classic |
| Region | Maharashtra, North India, Vaishnava traditions, Gujarat |
Famous People Named Uddhava
- →Uddhava (Krishna's beloved friend in the Bhagavatam)
- →Uddhav Thackeray (Maharashtrian politician, former CM)
Similar Names
Why This Name Fits Krittika Nakshatra
In Vedic astrology, the nakshatra (lunar mansion) at the time of birth determines which syllables are auspicious for the child's name. Krittikanakshatra prescribes names starting with "A", "I", "U", "E".Uddhava begins with "U", making it a traditionally appropriate choice for children born under Krittika.
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 Krittika nakshatra →Frequently Asked Questions
What does Uddhava mean?
Uddhava (उद्धव) means "one who rises, festive, the kindling, he who lifts up". It is of Sanskrit origin. From Sanskrit "ut" (up) + "dhava" (going, moving). One who rises upward — also meaning "kindling" of sacred fire. Uddhava was Krishna's closest friend and disciple, described as equal to Krishna in de...
Which nakshatra is Uddhava for?
Uddhava is traditionally recommended for children born under Krittika nakshatra, as it starts with the prescribed syllable "U".
What is the numerology number of Uddhava?
The Chaldean numerology number of Uddhava is 9, which represents Compassion: Humanitarian, generous, idealistic. Natural healers and teachers. Global perspective with deep empathy for others.
Is Uddhava a popular name in India?
Uddhava is considered a classic name, particularly popular in Maharashtra, North India, Vaishnava traditions.