Abhay

Abhay is a masculine given name of Indian origin derived from the Sanskrit word abhaya, meaning fearlessness or without fear. The name is common in India and among the Indian diaspora, and it appears in several Indian languages with similar pronunciation and spelling. In transliteration, the name may appear as Abhai in some contexts.

Historically, abhaya is used in religious and cultural contexts. Abhaya mudra, a gesture depicted in Hindu and Buddhist iconography, conveys protection and fearlessness. The name itself is often chosen for its auspicious meaning and is used across different communities and regions within the Indian subcontinent.

Notable people with the name include the Indian film actor Abhay Deol (born 1976). The name also features in popular culture; Abhay Pratap Singh is the detective protagonist of the Indian crime thriller web series Abhay, which premiered in 2020 on ZEE5. The use of Abhay in contemporary media reflects its enduring association with courage and protection.