Snigdhaudanapriya (स्निग्धौदनप्रिया, IAST: Snigdhaudanapriyā) is a Sanskrit-origin Hindu girl-name meaning “She who is fond of smooth, unctuous cooked rice”. From 'snigdha' (smooth, unctuous, oily, affectionate), 'audana' (pertaining to cooked rice, a rice offering), and 'priyā' (beloved, fond of), this name tenderly reveals that Lalitā is pleased by the humble, wholesome offering of well-prepared rice.

Meaning, etymology & significance

Within the ritual worship of the Devī, specific food offerings (naivedya) are considered dear to specific deities, and this name establishes that the Great Goddess accepts and delights in a simple, lovingly prepared offering of soft, well-cooked rice. 'Snigdha' carries a double resonance: it describes the texture of the offering as smooth and richly prepared, while simultaneously evoking the quality of tender affection — the rice is 'snigdha' because it is made with love. This name is a beautiful reminder that devotion expressed through simple domestic acts is as pleasing to the Mother as the most elaborate ritual.

This epithet is beloved in the nitya pūjā tradition, where devotees offer cooked rice to Lalitā knowing that their heartfelt simplicity is cherished by Her. The name 'Snigdhapriyā' could serve as a gentle, poetic given name.

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Scriptural source

Snigdhaudanapriya appears in the Lalitha Sahasranama, among the sacred names of Lalitha.