IPA Pronunciation

/kəˈruːnə/

Say It Like

kah-ROO-nah

Syllables

3

trisyllabic

The name 'Karuna' originates from the ancient Sanskrit language, where it signifies 'compassion' or 'mercy'. In Buddhist philosophy, 'Karuna' is a central concept reflecting the compassionate love towards all sentient beings. This rich cultural and spiritual background gives the name a profound and beautiful meaning, emphasizing empathy and kindness.

Cultural Significance of Karuna

In Indian and Buddhist cultures, Karuna is more than just a name; it is a virtue deeply revered and practiced. The concept of Karuna is integral to spiritual teachings and is often invoked in prayers and meditations. Naming a child Karuna often expresses a wish for them to grow into a compassionate and merciful individual.

Karuna Name Popularity in 2025

Today, Karuna is used across various cultures, especially in South Asia and among those inspired by Buddhist philosophy. It is a unisex name gaining popularity among parents seeking meaningful and spiritually significant names. The trend towards names with profound meanings bodes well for Karuna's contemporary appeal.

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Popular Nicknames5

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International Variations9

KarunaKarunaaKarunnaKarunahKarounaKarunKaruniKarunyaKharuna

Similar Names You Might Love7

Name Energy & Essence

The name Karuna carries the essence of “Compassion, mercy, kindness” from Sanskrit / Indian tradition. Names beginning with "K" often embody qualities of knowledge, artistic talent, and sensitivity.

Symbolism

The name symbolizes compassion, mercy, altruism, and the selfless love one can have for all living beings. It is often associated with healing and kindness.

Cultural Significance

In Indian and Buddhist cultures, Karuna is more than just a name; it is a virtue deeply revered and practiced. The concept of Karuna is integral to spiritual teachings and is often invoked in prayers and meditations. Naming a child Karuna often expresses a wish for them to grow into a compassionate and merciful individual.

Karuna Shaha

Artist

Karuna Shaha was an influential Nepalese artist known for her contributions to modern art and for being one of the first prominent female painters in Nepal.

  • Pioneer female painter in Nepal
  • Established modern art movement in Nepal

Karuna Singh

Activist

Karuna Singh was a notable social activist who worked towards improving women's social status in India.

  • Social reform in India
  • Advocated for women's rights

Karuna Bhagat

Singer

1990–present

  • Traditional Indian music
  • Fusion performances

Karuna Gupta

Social Activist

2000–present

  • Child welfare campaigns
  • Educational initiatives

Karuna ()

Karuna

A compassionate young woman who overcomes adversity in rural India.

The Compassionate Heart ()

Karuna Singh

A dedicated social worker helping underprivileged communities.

Echoes of Karuna ()

Narrator Karuna

Narrates the story of compassion across cultures and religions.

Karuna

🇪🇸spanish

Karuna

🇫🇷french

Karuna

🇮🇹italian

Karuna

🇩🇪german

カルナ (Karuna)

🇯🇵japanese

卡鲁纳 (Kǎ lǔ nà)

🇨🇳chinese

كارونا

🇸🇦arabic

קרונה

🇮🇱hebrew

Fun Fact About Karuna

Karuna is not only a name but also a key term in Buddhist teachings, representing one of the four sublime states known as the 'Four Immeasurables' or 'Brahmaviharas'.

Personality Traits for Karuna

People named Karuna often embody warmth and empathy, reflecting the meaning of their name. They tend to be caring, thoughtful, and have a natural inclination to help others. Their presence is soothing, and they often inspire kindness in those around them.

What does the name Karuna mean?

Karuna is a Sanskrit / Indian name meaning “Compassion, mercy, kindness”. The name 'Karuna' originates from the ancient Sanskrit language, where it signifies 'compassion' or 'mercy'. In Buddhist philosophy, 'Karuna' is a central concept reflecting the compassionate love towards all sentient beings. This rich cultural and spiritual background gives the name a profound and beautiful meaning, emphasizing empathy and kindness.

How do you pronounce Karuna?

Karuna is pronounced kah-ROO-nah (IPA: /kəˈruːnə/). It has 3 syllables with the pattern trisyllabic.

What are nicknames for Karuna?

Popular nicknames for Karuna include: Karu, Runa, Kari, Karo, Kuna.

Who are famous people named Karuna?

Famous people named Karuna include: Karuna Shaha, Karuna Singh, Karuna Bhagat, Karuna Gupta.

Hello dear readers! Today, I’m thrilled to share with you the story and beauty behind the name 'Karuna'. As a baby name enthusiast and someone who cherishes the stories that names carry, I find Karuna particularly enchanting. It’s one of those rare names that immediately conveys warmth and kindness, qualities we all aspire to see in the world around us.

Discovering Karuna: Meaning and Origins When I first encountered the name Karuna, I was drawn to its soft yet strong sound. Pronounced as kah-ROO-nah, it’s rooted deeply in Sanskrit, one of the oldest languages known for its spiritual and philosophical texts. Karuna means 'compassion' or 'mercy' — concepts that are universally treasured but hold a special place in Indian and Buddhist traditions. The name embodies the ideal of selfless empathy towards others, a value that transcends cultures and religions.

The Rich Spiritual Heritage Diving deeper, I found that Karuna is not just a name but a significant spiritual concept. In Buddhism, Karuna is one of the four 'Brahmaviharas' or sublime states, alongside loving-kindness, sympathetic joy, and equanimity. It represents an active compassion, a drive to alleviate suffering. This adds a profound layer of meaning for parents who wish to instill these virtues in their children.

Historical Figures Who Embodied Karuna Names come alive through the stories of those who bore them, and Karuna is no exception. Take Karuna Shaha, a pioneering Nepalese artist who broke barriers for women in the arts. Her work brought a fresh perspective to Nepalese culture and inspired many. Then there’s Karuna Singh, a social reformer who championed women’s rights in India, embodying the very compassion her name signifies. And Karuna Ratna Tuladhar, a businessman and philanthropist, whose efforts in trade and education uplifted many.

Karuna in Modern Times Today, the name Karuna continues to flourish across South Asia and beyond. It is a favored choice for parents seeking a name that is not only beautiful but also carries a message of kindness and care. Interestingly, it has crossed cultural boundaries and is appreciated in spiritual and secular communities alike.

Celebrities and Athletes Named Karuna The name also shines in various fields. Karuna Bhagat’s melodious voice in traditional Indian music adds an artistic flair to the name. Meanwhile, Karuna Gupta’s dedication to child welfare projects and Karuna Verma’s vibrant acting roles highlight the versatility of those who carry this name. In sports, Karuna Kumar’s cricketing prowess and Karuna Das’s marathon achievements bring athletic excellence to the name’s legacy.

Karuna in Pop Culture You might have noticed the name in films and television as well. The 1986 film 'Karuna' tells the story of a compassionate woman’s resilience, while the TV series 'The Compassionate Heart' features a character named Karuna Singh who represents dedication to social causes. The documentary 'Echoes of Karuna' beautifully explores compassion across cultures.

Fun Facts and Trivia Did you know that Karuna is one of the four sublime states in Buddhism, often paired with 'Metta' (loving-kindness)? It’s fascinating how a name can encapsulate such profound spiritual ideals. Also, in Japanese, Karuna is phonetically adapted but maintains its original essence, showcasing its cross-cultural appeal.

Why I Love the Name Karuna From personal experience, I find names like Karuna deeply comforting. They remind us of the goodness in humanity and the importance of empathy in our daily lives. I once met a young girl named Karuna at a cultural event, and her gentle demeanor truly reflected the spirit of her name. It’s names like these that make me appreciate the power and poetry inherent in naming.

The Future of Karuna With its rich history, spiritual depth, and beautiful sound, Karuna is poised to remain a cherished name for generations to come. Whether you are drawn to its cultural roots, its meaningfulness, or simply its melodic tone, Karuna offers a timeless choice for any child.

Thank you for joining me on this heartwarming exploration of the name Karuna. If you know someone named Karuna or are considering it for your little one, I hope this insight has added a special layer to your appreciation of this wonderful name. Stay tuned for more name stories and happy naming!