Krishnaraja

Krishnaraja is a male given name of Indian origin, formed from the Sanskrit elements Krishna and Raja, meaning “the king Krishna” or “King Krishna.” It is used in Kannada and other Indian languages as a given name and as part of royal titles.

In historical contexts, the name is associated with members of the Mysore royal family, notably Krishnaraja Wodeyar III (reigned circa 1831–1868) and Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV (reigned 1894–1940). The latter is recognized for guiding modernization in the princely state, expanding infrastructure, education, and culture, and for supporting scientific and cultural institutions, including the University of Mysore, established in 1916. The Wodeyar dynasty frequently used the name in courtly titles, sometimes transliterated as Krishnaraja Wadiyar.

Beyond royal circles, Krishnaraja remains a recognizable given name in Karnataka and among Kannada-speaking communities, though it is most often encountered in historical or ceremonial contexts rather than as a common contemporary name.