Dipak

Dipak is a masculine given name of Indian origin derived from the Sanskrit word dīpa, meaning lamp or light. The form Dipak is a common transliteration in several Indian languages, and it has several variant spellings including Deepak and Dipak; pronunciation and spelling can vary by region and community.

Etymology and meaning: The name combines dīpa with a masculine suffix, traditionally interpreted as “lamp-bearing” or “light.” In Hindu culture, a lamp (diya) is a symbol of knowledge, purity, and auspicious beginnings, and the name Dipak is often associated with these connotations.

Usage and distribution: Dipak is widely used across India, Nepal, and among South Asian diaspora communities. It appears in many linguistic and cultural contexts, including Hindi, Bengali, Marathi, and Nepali-speaking communities. As a given name, it is typically assigned to boys at birth and can be found in families with Hindu, Buddhist, or mixed religious backgrounds.

Cultural associations: Lamps and light hold ceremonial importance in South Asian traditions, including religious observances and festivals such as Diwali. The name Dipak thus carries positive associations with illumination, wisdom, and guidance.

Notable people: One well-known figure with this name is Dipak Misra, an Indian jurist who served as the Chief Justice of India. The name is borne by other professionals and public figures in various fields across the Indian subcontinent and among the global Indian diaspora, reflecting its broad cultural reach.

See also: Deepak, a closely related variant spelling frequently used in similar cultural contexts.