Nandini

What does Nandini mean?

Nandini means ‘daughter’ in Sanskrit and literary Hindi. Wiktionary also records the given name and an epithet of Durga. The word is connected with a root meaning ‘to rejoice’, which supports the interpretation ‘one who brings joy’, although the cited entry does not state that phrase as its definition. Monier-Williams also records the celestial cow Nandini. These are distinct lexical and religious associations, all relevant to understanding the name.

Source: Wiktionary, नंदिनी. How we use sources.

Spelling and pronunciation

नंदिनी and नन्दिनी are read nan-di-nee, in three syllables with a long final vowel. The two spellings represent the nasal differently. Nandhini is another Roman form found in Tamil contexts. The d is made near the teeth, and the middle i remains short.

Also spelled Nandhini.

Nandini in tradition and story

Nandini is recorded as an epithet of Durga and as the celestial cow of the sage Vasishtha. In Kalidasa's Raghuvamsha, King Dilipa serves Nandini in the hope of obtaining an heir. This is a specific literary connection of the name.