Kriya
Kriya (क्रिया) is a Sanskrit-origin Hindu girl-name meaning “Action, sacred ritual”. Find pronunciation, origin, deity association, popularity and similar Hindu baby names.
Kriya (क्रिया) is a Sanskrit-origin Hindu girl-name meaning “Action, sacred ritual”. Find pronunciation, origin, deity association, popularity and similar Hindu baby names.
Kriya (क्रिया, IAST: kriyā) is a Sanskrit-origin Hindu girl-name meaning “Action, sacred ritual”. The Sanskrit term for any spiritual practice or ritual action; one of the three principal yogic paths.
Meaning, etymology & significance
Kriya (क्रिया) is the Sanskrit word for action — but action of a particular kind. In Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, kriyā-yoga is named as the practical limb of yoga: tapaḥ-svādhyāyeśvara-praṇidhānāni kriyā-yogaḥ — austerity, study, and surrender to the Lord constitute kriya-yoga.
In Tantra and Hatha Yoga, kriya is the term for the cleansing and energising practices that prepare body and mind for meditation — neti, dhauti, basti, kapalbhati and the rest. In the modern era Paramahansa Yogananda’s Self-Realization Fellowship has popularised Kriya Yoga across the world.
For a baby girl, Kriya is a name of luminous spiritual seriousness — naming her after the very practice that leads to liberation. The name is uncommon but increasingly appreciated by yoga-aware modern Indian families.
Pronunciation: KRI-ya. Pair with surnames from yogic or contemplative traditions for the fullest effect.
Astrology — nakshatra & rashi
By the standard Vedic correspondence between the first syllable of a name and the lunar mansion (nakshatra), Kriya aligns with the Mrigashira nakshatra, under the Mithuna rashi (Moon sign).
Similar names
Hindu names with a similar feel or meaning include: Kriti, Karma, Kriyansh. Each is a distinct choice with its own etymology — explore them on their own pages for fuller context.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Kriya mean?
Kriya ( क्रिया , IAST: kriyā ) is a Sanskrit-origin Hindu girl-name meaning “Action, sacred ritual” . The Sanskrit term for any spiritual practice or ritual action; one of the three principal yogic paths.
Is Kriya 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 Kriya?
It has Sanskrit/Hindu origins; its roots, deity association and significance are detailed above.
Are there variations or similar names to Kriya?
Related and similarly-themed Hindu names, along with their meanings, are listed in the guide above to help you choose.
Kriya — Name Facts
- Meaning
- Action, sacred ritual
- Gender
- Hindu girl name
- Nakshatra
- Mrigashira
- Rashi
- Mithuna (Gemini)
- Numerology
- 7
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Kriya mean?
Kriya is a Sanskrit-origin Hindu girl name meaning “Action, sacred ritual”.
Is Kriya a boy or girl name?
Kriya is traditionally a Hindu girl name.
Which nakshatra and rashi suit the name Kriya?
By the first-syllable rule of Vedic naming, Kriya aligns with the Mrigashira nakshatra, under the Mithuna (Gemini) rashi.
What is the numerology number of Kriya?
The Chaldean name number of Kriya is 7.
Explore more: Mrigashira nakshatra names · Mithuna rashi names · Hindu girl names with K · All Hindu names A–Z
