Vandan

Vandan is a term of Sanskrit origin used in several Indian languages to denote an act of reverence, homage, or salutation. In religious and cultural contexts, vandan refers to the gesture of bowing or offering respect to a deity, a teacher, or an elder, and it can be performed as part of prayers, ceremonies, or daily rituals.

Etymology and related forms: The root vand- in Sanskrit means to worship or to bow. The noun vandana (and its variant vandan) expresses reverence, praise, or salutary salutation. Vandana is the more common form in many languages, while vandan appears in some regional usages and literary contexts. The term also appears in combinations such as vandana and vandanam to denote acts of worship or prayer.

Cultural usage: In Hindu practice, vandan may be performed at the start of a ceremony or temple visit as a formal gesture of respect. It is commonly seen in rituals that honor deities, teachers, or elders. The act can accompany spoken prayers, offerings, or prostrations, and it often accompanies recitations or chants in traditional settings.

Contemporary usage: Vandan is used as a given name in some Indian communities, though it is far less common than Vandana or other related names. When used as a name, it carries a sense of reverence or homage, in keeping with its linguistic roots. Related names include Vandana, Vandit, and Vandhana, which share the same etymological origin.

See also: Vandana, Vandit, Vandhana.