rahul

Rahul is a masculine given name of Sanskrit origin that is widely used in India, Nepal, and among the Indian diaspora. The exact meaning of Rahul is variably interpreted in Sanskrit name lore, and the name is commonly treated as a standalone given name rather than a word with a fixed translation. In Buddhist tradition, Rahula is the name of Siddhartha Gautama's son; this historical figure has contributed to the name's long-standing presence in South Asia.

The name is especially common in India, across several languages and regions, and is also used in neighboring countries. It is typically spelled Rahul in English transliteration; other transliterations may appear in different scripts. The name is associated with a masculine identity in contemporary usage.

Notable individuals named Rahul include the Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid; the Indian politician Rahul Gandhi; actors Rahul Bose, Rahul Khanna, and Rahul Roy; and other professionals across fields. The name's broad usage reflects its enduring popularity in South Asia and among diaspora communities.