Manu
Manu is a Sanskrit masculine name with deep roots in Hindu religious tradition. In early Vedic literature, Manu is regarded as the primordial human, lawgiver, and progenitor of mankind. The name is traditionally linked with the Sanskrit root man-, meaning “to think,” connecting it conceptually with manas (“mind”) and the idea of humanity as the thinking being. In Hindu cosmology, several Manus are said to preside over different cosmic ages (manvantaras), but the most well-known is Vaivasvata Manu, who survives a great flood and becomes the ancestor of the renewed human race. As a personal name, Manu conveys themes of wisdom, order, origin, and moral authority.
Manu appears prominently in Vedic and later Hindu texts, including the Manusmṛti, a classical Sanskrit legal and ethical treatise traditionally attributed to a sage named Manu. Within Hindu tradition, Manu represents both the first human and a culture hero associated with establishing social and moral structure.
Through centuries of religious and literary transmission, the name entered common usage across the Indian subcontinent. It remains in use in Hindi-speaking regions as well as in Kannada, Marathi, Gujarati, and Nepali communities. Today, Manu is appreciated both for its brevity and for its strong mythological and philosophical associations within Hindu heritage.
- Manu Rishi Chadha20th–21st century • Film and theatre
Indian actor, lyricist, and dialogue writer known for his work in Hindi cinema and recipient of the Filmfare Best Dialogue Award.
- Manu Limbu20th–21st century • Music
Nepali singer recognized for performing modern and folk songs and for her contributions to the Nepali music industry.
- Manu Attri21st century • Badminton
Indian badminton player who has represented India in international competitions, including the Asian Games and the Olympic Games.
- Manu Nayyar20th–21st century • Cricket
Indian former cricketer who played first-class cricket for Delhi and later worked as a referee.
Forms
Common spellings and forms used in different languages.
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Related names
Similar names connected by origin, usage, gender, or category.
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FAQ
Quick answers about this name.
Is Manu a boy or girl name?
Manu is typically a boy’s name.
What does Manu mean?
Manu is a Sanskrit masculine name with deep roots in Hindu religious tradition. In early Vedic literature, Manu is regarded as the primordial human, lawgiver, and progenitor of mankind. The name is traditionally linked with the Sanskrit root man-, meaning “to think,” connecting it conceptually with manas (“mind”) and the idea of humanity as the thinking being. In Hindu cosmology, several Manus are said to preside over different cosmic ages (manvantaras), but the most well-known is Vaivasvata Manu, who survives a great flood and becomes the ancestor of the renewed human race. As a personal name, Manu conveys themes of wisdom, order, origin, and moral authority.
Where does Manu come from?
Manu is commonly associated with Sanskrit.
Where is Manu used?
Manu is used in naming traditions such as Hinduism, Hindi, Kannada, Marathi, Gujarati, Nepali.
How do you pronounce Manu?
Pronunciation can vary by language and region; in English it is often pronounced close to “Manu”.
Part of Names Archive — a reference-style collection of name meanings and origins.