dayal

Dayal is a name of Indian origin used as both a given name and a surname. It is derived from the Sanskrit dayā, meaning compassion, mercy, or kindness, and thus the name carries the sense of benevolence.

Usage: In many North Indian languages—Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi, Gujarati—Dayal is commonly a masculine given name and also occurs as a surname. In given-name usage, it may appear alone or as the first element in compound names such as Dayal Singh or Dayal Das; in surname usage it is found among various communities, reflecting regional or family naming practices rather than a single lineage.

Geographic distribution: Dayal is most common in India, especially in northern and central regions. It is also found among South Asian communities in Pakistan, Nepal, and in diaspora communities across the United Kingdom, North America, and the Gulf states.

Cultural notes: As a name, Dayal embodies a virtue associated with compassion and mercy, values historically linked to Hindu, Sikh, and Muslim naming traditions.

Notable bearers: The name is borne by many individuals in fields such as academia, public service, and the arts; however, the specific notable figures vary by region and language.