manav

Manav is a masculine given name of Indian origin. The name derives from the Sanskrit term manava, meaning human or human being, and is related to the mythological figure Manu, considered the progenitor of humanity in Hindu tradition. In many Indian languages, the word conveys the sense of a person or personhood and is used as a self-standing name across communities.

In usage, Manav is common in India and among the Indian diaspora. It is primarily used as a given name rather than a surname. The name is used across various Indian languages, including Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, and Kannada. Variants and related names include Manavendra, Manaveer, and Mani or Manu in some contexts, though these are distinct names.

Notable people named Manav include Indian actors and public figures such as Manav Gohil, a television and film actor; Manav Kaul, a playwright, actor, and filmmaker; and Manav Vij, an actor who has worked in Indian cinema and international productions. The name is also used by other professionals and in fictional characters.