Holding steady, #9,457 for girls today.
Popularity of Mala since 1951
Babies named Mala per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 175 |
| 1960s | 128 |
| 1970s | 83 |
| 1980s | 70 |
| 1990s | 60 |
| 2000s | 31 |
| 2010s | 99 |
| 2020s | 52 |
Meaning & origin
Mala is a Sanskrit name meaning 'garland' or 'necklace,' often associated with the Hindu goddess Lakshmi. In the United States, it first appeared in Social Security records in 1951 and reached its peak popularity in 1956, though it has never been widely common. As of 2025, the name ranks 9457, with an estimated 1 in 160727 newborn girls receiving the name. Its trajectory has remained stable over the decades, without any notable revival. The name is most familiar within Indian American communities and carries a distinct cultural resonance, but it has not entered mainstream American naming trends. While Mala does not appear in any top state lists, it maintains a steady but low usage, reflecting its niche appeal.
Mala comes from Sanskrit माला (mālā), meaning 'garland' or 'necklace.' It is also an epithet of the goddess Lakshmi, symbolizing prosperity and beauty. The name has been used across India and in Hindu communities abroad, though it remains relatively uncommon in the West.
Nicknames & variants
Sibling names for Mala
Names that share Mala's style, for a brother or sister.
