Datt

Datt is a transliteration variant of the Indian name Datta and can refer to a masculine given name as well as a surname. The spelling Datt reflects regional phonology and is one of several related forms, including Datta and Dutta.

Etymology and meaning: The name derives from Sanskrit दत्त (datta), meaning “given” or “gift.” In Indian naming traditions, it is commonly used across various languages and communities, sometimes as a standalone given name, other times as part of compound names or as a family surname.

Religious and cultural context: In Hinduism, the root Datta is associated with Datta- or Dattatreya, a deity who embodies a synthesis of divine powers. Devotional practices and temple traditions centered on Datta/Dattatreya have contributed to the name’s cultural resonance in certain regions. As a result, the element Datta appears in religious phrases, legends, and temple names, influencing its continued use in naming.

Linguistic and geographic distribution: Variants such as Datt, Datta, and Dutta are found across India, with regional preferences shaping the spelling. Dutta is common in Bengal and among Bengali-speaking communities, while Datt and Datta are more frequently seen in Marathi- and other western Indian contexts. The surname Datt is also present among Indian diaspora communities abroad.

Notable usage: The name Datt appears among individuals in arts, academia, and public life, reflecting its status as a traditional personal name rather than the name of a single organization or entity.

See also: Datta, Dutta, Datta (disambiguation).