How Do You Spell MAHINDA?

Pronunciation: [mahˈɪndə] (IPA)

Mahinda is a common name in Sri Lanka, often spelled as "Mahindha" or "Mihindha". The spelling "Mahinda" can be broken down into three phonetic sounds - /ma/ as in "mama", /hin/ as in "hint", and /da/ as in "data". The emphasis is on the second syllable, "hin", with a slight raise in pitch. In Sinhalese, the language spoken in Sri Lanka, the word means "great-individual" and is often used in reference to Buddha's disciple, Mahinda Thera.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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MAHINDA Meaning and Definition

  1. Mahinda is a proper noun primarily used as a given name in Sri Lanka and other South Asian countries. It is derived from Sanskrit and holds cultural and religious significance. In the ancient Indian language, 'Maha' means great or supreme, while 'Inda' refers to the god Indra, who holds a prominent place in Hindu mythology. As such, Mahinda carries connotations of greatness and divinity.

    Historically, Mahinda is well-known for its association with the Buddhist religion. According to legend, Mahinda was the son of Emperor Ashoka of India, who sent him to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE to introduce Buddhism to the island nation. As a result, Mahinda is often revered as the apostle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and is considered a key figure in the country's cultural and religious heritage.

    In contemporary usage, Mahinda is still a commonly given name to males in Sri Lanka, reflecting the continuing influence of Buddhism in the region. Additionally, it is occasionally used as a family name in Sri Lankan communities.

    Overall, Mahinda is a name rich in history and religious significance, carrying connotations of greatness and reverence. It represents an important cultural link to Buddhism and the enduring connection between India and Sri Lanka.

Etymology of MAHINDA

The word "Mahinda" has its origins in the ancient Indian language, Pali. It is derived from the Pali word "Maha" meaning "great" and "indra" referring to the Hindu deity Indra, who is considered the king of gods and lord of the heavens in Hindu mythology. In Buddhism, "Mahinda" has been widely used as a given name, especially in Sri Lanka, where Mahinda was the name of an esteemed figure in history. Mahinda was the son of the Indian Emperor Ashoka, who played a crucial role in spreading Buddhism in Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE. The name Mahinda thus carries a connotation of greatness and divine influence.