What does Sharmila mean and where does it come from?
The name Sharmila (शर्मिला) is of Indian and Bengali origin and is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Sharmila', which signifies joy and comfort. It has been used predominantly in Bengali and Hindi-speaking regions. The name was made popular by Indian actress Sharmila Tagore, who gained fame in the 196
Cultural significance
Sharmila has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in India-speaking communities, where it reflects values of sanskrit.
Peak popularity
Reached #3728 in 1977 — currently #703 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
India-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Sharmila?
Sharmila works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Sharmila Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Sharmila Rose
Floral · soft ending
Sharmila Mae
Sweet · timeless
Sharmila Claire
French influence · crisp
Sharmila Jane
Literary · strong
Sharmila Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Sharmila right now?
Holding steady — currently #703 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #703 | 1,497 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #708 | 1,477 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #713 | 1,447 | ▲ up 10184 · +20571% births |
| 1995 | #10897 | 7 | ▼ down 1033 · +17% births |
| 1985 | #9864 | 6 | ▲ up 1262 · +20% births |
| 1980 | #11126 | 5 | ▼ down 4222 · -37% births |
| 1975 | #6904 | 8 | ▲ up 829 · +33% births |
| 1970 | #7733 | 6 | — |
The story of Sharmila
Sharmila is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1967. With 180 total births recorded, Sharmila remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #7733 in 1970 to #703 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Sharmila in 1977:
Sharmila by decade
Sharmila peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 10 | |
| 1970s ★ | 109 | |
| 1980s | 44 | |
| 1990s | 17 | |
💎Sharmila has only 180 total recorded births since 1967 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Sharmila?
What names sound and feel like Sharmila?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Sharmila also consider these
How is Sharmila written in other languages?
சர்மிளா
Tamil), शर्मिला (Marathi
What are the boy versions of Sharmila?
Common questions about the name Sharmila
What does the name Sharmila mean?
Sharmila means "Sanskrit" — a name rooted in India tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Sharmila?
Sharmila is currently ranked #703 as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Sharmila?
Sharmila originates from India tradition. India names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Sharmila?
Sharmila is a three-syllable name pronounced SH AA1 R M IY1 L AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Sharmila?
Sharmila pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar India heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.