Deepa

Deepa is a female given name of Sanskrit origin. It is derived from dīpa, meaning lamp or light, and is used across many Indian languages. The name evokes brightness, illumination, and auspiciousness. In Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist contexts, lamps symbolize knowledge and the dispelling of darkness, and the term is often associated with rituals and festivals such as Diwali.

Usage and variants: Deepa is common in India and among the Indian diaspora. Transliteration varies; common spellings include Deepa and Dipa. The masculine form Deepak (or Dipak) exists in the same linguistic family, and related names include Dipika and Dipti.

Notable people: Deepa Mehta, an Indian-Canadian filmmaker, is one of the best-known individuals with the given name. Her films, including Fire, Earth, and Water, have brought international attention to South Asian cinema. The name is widely used across South Asia and among communities worldwide, often chosen for its positive connotations of light and knowledge.