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What is the real name of Kashmir?

Published in Place Names 1 min read

The real name of Kashmir, derived from Sanskrit, is káśmīra.

Etymology of Kashmir

The name "Kashmir" has interesting roots, with a few explanations as to where it comes from. Here are some of the etymologies:

  • Sanskrit Origin: The word "Kashmir" is believed to have originated from the Sanskrit word káśmīra.
  • Local Etymology: A popular local explanation suggests that "Kashmira" means land that has been desiccated from water. This implies a region that was once underwater but later became dry land.
  • Vedic Sage Kashyapa: Another theory links the name to the Vedic sage Kashyapa. It's believed that he settled people in this land, leading to the region being named after him.

Here's a summary of the etymologies:

Etymology Description
Sanskrit Derived from *káśmīra*
Local Land desiccated from water
Vedic Sage Named after Kashyapa, who settled the land

These various explanations highlight the rich history and cultural significance associated with the name "Kashmir."