Lalani

Lalani is a name used both as a given name and a surname in various cultures, particularly in South Asia and parts of Southeast Asia. The name appears in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Philippines, reflecting a shared linguistic heritage that blends Sanskrit, Arabic, and Spanish influences. In its most common usage in India and Bangladesh, Lalani is feminine and is often chosen for its pleasant sound rather than a specific meaning.

Etymologically, Lalani derives from the Sanskrit root “lal,” which means “to love” or “to dote on,” combined with the feminine suffix “‑ani.” Thus, the literal sense is “beloved one” or “the one who is dottable.” In Hindu tradition the name is sometimes associated with the goddess Lakshmi, although it is not a formal epithet of the deity. In the Philippines, the surname Lalani is frequently found among families of Chinese descent who adopted Spanish-style surnames during the colonial census reforms of the late 19th century. Some Filipino families also associate the name with “lalá,” a mourning song, and “lani,” meaning “heaven,” producing a poetic connotation of “beloved of the heavens.”

The name features in popular culture in small but notable ways. In Indian cinema a character named Lalani has appeared in a number of 1980s dramas, often portrayed as a virtuous woman. In the Philippines, a folk song “Bakit Ang Diyos, Lalani” accuses the titular figure of divine cruelty, reflecting the name’s presence in regional storytelling. A play by playwright Balwantrao G. Namani titled “Lalani’s Dilemma” explores identity and tradition among second‑generation immigrants.

Notable people with the name include Pakistani constitutional lawyer Abid Lalani, Indian film critic Kiran Lalani, and Filipino singer Maria Lalani, all of whom have gained recognition in their respective fields for contributions to law, film critique, and music.