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Origin: Sanskrit

Meaning: From Kalinga

Kalinga. The mention of it is enough to paint pictures of one of the deadliest battles in Indian history. Taken from Sanskrit, it refers to a historical region in India that was subjected to a horrendous war at the hands of Emperor Aśoka in 261 BCE. However, by the end of it, witnessing the scale of bloodshed and terror, Aśoka grew remorseful and decided to change his ways. He converted to Buddhism and chose to spread peace instead. So influential did he become in his mission that his insignia has been adapted as one of the national symbols. With a name like Kalinga, baby will be connected to their roots, and perhaps they, too, will be a vessel for honesty, compassion, and benevolence.