Karthikey
Karthikey (कार्तिकेय) is a Sanskrit-origin Hindu boy-name meaning “Son of the Krittikas — Murugan”. Find pronunciation, origin, deity association, popularity and similar Hindu baby names.

Karthikey (कार्तिकेय) is a Sanskrit-origin Hindu boy-name meaning “Son of the Krittikas — Murugan”. Find pronunciation, origin, deity association, popularity and similar Hindu baby names.
Karthikey (कार्तिकेय) is a Sanskrit-origin Hindu boy-name meaning “Son of the Krittikas — Murugan”. Karthikey is associated with Lord Kartikeya, deepening its devotional significance. This guide covers Karthikey’s meaning, origin, pronunciation, deity association, popularity and similar names — useful for Hindu families in India, USA, UK, Canada and Australia choosing a meaningful baby name.
What does Karthikey mean?
Karthikey (कार्तिकेय) is a Hindu boy-name meaning Son of the Krittikas — Murugan. The Sanskrit root carries depth and sacred resonance, making this name a meaningful choice rooted in dharmic tradition.
Origin & Sanskrit form
The Sanskrit form of Karthikey is कार्तिकेय, drawn from the rich Sanskrit lexicon. Its phonetics translate naturally across South Asian languages — Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Marathi, Kannada and Malayalam — preserving its devotional weight in every script.
Pronunciation & spelling variants
Karthikey is pronounced phonetically in Sanskrit. Common Roman-script spellings include Karthikey and minor regional variants. NRI families often retain the Sanskrit spelling for cultural authenticity while choosing a phonetic Roman version that English speakers can pronounce easily.
Deity association
Karthikey is associated with Lord Kartikeya. Naming a child with a deity-linked name is a centuries-old Hindu tradition believed to invite the deity’s blessings throughout the child’s life. Parents often pair Karthikey with daily mantras dedicated to Lord Kartikeya to deepen the spiritual connection.
Popularity in 2026
Karthikey has steady appeal among Hindu families in India and across the diaspora. It balances tradition with modern phonetic ease, and its Sanskrit roots resonate with parents seeking a name that carries cultural depth without sounding archaic.
Similar Hindu boy names
Explore the full A–Z directory of Hindu boy names on HinduTone — organised by letter, by deity, by nakshatra, and by rashi — to find the perfect name with the right meaning, sound, and astrological fit for your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Karthikey mean?
Karthikey ( कार्तिकेय ) is a Sanskrit-origin Hindu boy-name meaning “Son of the Krittikas — Murugan” . Karthikey is associated with Lord Kartikeya, deepening its devotional significance.
Is Karthikey a good Hindu baby name?
Yes — it is a traditional Hindu name with an auspicious meaning, suitable for a baby and rooted in Sanatana Dharma values.
What is the origin of the name Karthikey?
It has Sanskrit/Hindu origins; its roots, deity association and significance are detailed above.
Are there variations or similar names to Karthikey?
Related and similarly-themed Hindu names, along with their meanings, are listed in the guide above to help you choose.
Karthikey — Name Facts
- Meaning
- Son of the Krittikas — Murugan
- Gender
- Hindu boy name
- Nakshatra
- Mrigashira
- Rashi
- Mithuna (Gemini)
- Numerology
- 5
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Karthikey mean?
Karthikey is a Sanskrit-origin Hindu boy name meaning “Son of the Krittikas — Murugan”.
Is Karthikey a boy or girl name?
Karthikey is traditionally a Hindu boy name.
Which nakshatra and rashi suit the name Karthikey?
By the first-syllable rule of Vedic naming, Karthikey aligns with the Mrigashira nakshatra, under the Mithuna (Gemini) rashi.
What is the numerology number of Karthikey?
The Chaldean name number of Karthikey is 5.
Explore more: Mrigashira nakshatra names · Mithuna rashi names · Hindu boy names with K · All Hindu names A–Z


