MallowbyNames

Chandrika

चन्द्रिकाchun-DREE-kuh · Derived from Sanskrit, meaning 'moonlight' or 'illuminated by the moon'.

Peak popularity
1972
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Chandrika since 1968

Babies named Chandrika per year in U.S. Social Security records.

91827198020002020Most births 1972Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1960s13
1970s70
1980s50
1990s23
2000s5
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Chandrika is a rare Sanskrit-derived name meaning 'moonlight' first recorded in the United States in 1968. Though it never entered the top 1000, it reached its peak usage in 1972 and has remained stable but uncommon ever since. The name's gentle lunar imagery and melodic sound appeal to families seeking a distinctive Indian name. Given its extreme rarity, Chandrika offers a unique choice that honors cultural heritage without being ubiquitous. For parents drawn to nature-inspired names, Chandrika provides a poetic and meaningful option.

Chandrika comes from the Sanskrit word 'candrikā' meaning 'moonlight' or 'a moonlit night'. It is a feminine name widely used in India and among Hindu communities. The name has been in use since at least the mid-20th century in the United States, first recorded in 1968, and remains relatively rare.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Chan, Chandu, Rika

Variants: Chandrikaa, Chandrike, Chandrika

Sibling names for Chandrika

Names that share Chandrika's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Anjali, Priya, Kavya, Deepa, Nalini

Brothers: Arun, Ravi, Raj, Nikhil, Vikram

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

C is for Chandrika, our favorite little girl.

C is for Chandrika…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Chandrika's letter becomes Chandrika's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Chandrika's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Chandrika mean?
Chandrika means 'moonlight' or 'illuminated by the moon' in Sanskrit.
How popular is the name Chandrika?
Chandrika is very rare in the United States. It first appeared in 1968, peaked in 1972, and has not ranked in the top 1000 since the 1970s.
Is Chandrika a boy or girl name?
Chandrika is traditionally a feminine name.