Mallika

Mallika is a feminine given name of Indian origin. It is widely used in India and Sri Lanka, as well as among Indian diaspora communities. In Sanskrit and related languages, mallikā denotes jasmine, a fragrant flower often associated with beauty and grace. The name thus carries connotations of fragrance and elegance.

The spelling Mallika is the common transliteration in English, though diacritical variants such as Mallikā appear in more formal Sanskrit renderings. The name is used across multiple Indian languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam.

Notable people named Mallika include Mallika Sherawat (born 1976), an Indian actress known for her work in Bollywood and international film presence; and Mallika Dua (born 1989), a comedian, actress, and television host.

In popular culture, Mallika appears as a feminine given name for fictional characters in Indian cinema and television, reflecting its enduring popularity. The name is distinct from Malika, a separate name of Arabic origin meaning “queen.”