A Middle Name: More Than Just a Label?

A Middle Name: More Than Just a Label?

Names are fascinating, aren’t they? They serve as our identity, whisper tales of ancestry, and often carry the weight of tradition, culture, and even aspirations. My name, Prashant Kumar Lal, is no exception. But today, I turn the spotlight on my middle name—Kumar—a seemingly simple yet deeply embedded part of my identity.

What’s in a Middle Name?

In many cultures, middle names are more than just an additional syllable in a passport or a bank document. They can be a family legacy, a symbol of status, or a tribute to an ancestor. In India, particularly, ‘Kumar’ is one of the most common middle names, used across states, languages, and communities.

For some, it signifies youth or a princely disposition—rooted in Sanskrit, where Kumara means ‘boy’ or ‘prince’. In ancient Hindu traditions, Lord Kartikeya, the warrior son of Shiva and Parvati, is often referred to as Kumar—a symbol of strength and wisdom. Over time, the name transcended religious boundaries and became a widely accepted marker of respectability.

The Evolution of ‘Kumar’ in My Life

As a child, I didn’t ponder much on the significance of my middle name. It was just there, sandwiched between my first and last names. But over time, I began to notice its omnipresence—classmates, colleagues, even strangers carried the same middle name. Did it make me less unique? Or did it bind me to something larger, a shared cultural heritage?

While my first name, Prashant, signifies peace and calm, Kumar adds a dynamic contrast—youthfulness, vibrance, and perhaps an eternal student-like curiosity. Together, they form a blend of serenity and energy, a balance that I strive to maintain in life.

A Marker of Tradition or a Mere Formality?

The role of middle names varies across the world. In Western traditions, they often serve as a connection to a grandparent or a historical figure. In some cases, they are used to distinguish between people with common first and last names. In contrast, Indian names—especially those with Kumar—seem to function more as a cultural bridge than a unique identifier.

In official paperwork, the middle name is sometimes overlooked, yet in personal spaces, it holds its own charm. It serves as a silent witness to my roots, linking me to generations before me. I could have been just Prashant Lal, but somehow, Prashant Kumar Lal carries a rhythm, a completeness that feels just right.

Would I Ever Change It?

Not a chance! Middle names may not always be in the limelight, but they subtly shape who we are. Whether as a mark of tradition, a phonetic enhancement, or an ancestral gift, they add a hidden depth to our identity. Kumar is not just an extra syllable in my name—it’s a whisper of history, a nod to heritage, and a reminder that names, like people, carry stories within them.

So, what does your middle name mean to you?