Your Privacy is Important to us

We encourage you to review our Terms of Service, and Privacy Policy.

By continuing, you agree to the Terms listed here. In case you want to opt out, please click "Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information" link in the footer of this page.

Opt out of the sale or sharing of personal information

We won't sell or share your personal information to inform the ads you see. You may still see interest-based ads if your information is sold or shared by other companies or was sold or shared previously.

Continue on TOI App
Open App
Login for better experience!
Login Now
Welcome! to timesofindia.com
TOI INDTOI USTOI GCC
TOI+
  • Home
  • Live
  • TOI Games
  • Top Headlines
  • India
  • City News
  • Photos
  • Business
  • Real Estate
  • Entertainment
  • Movie Reviews
  • Lifestyle
  • Podcasts
  • Elections
  • Web Series
  • Sports
  • TV
  • Food
  • Travel
  • Events
  • World
  • Music
  • Astrology
  • Videos
  • Tech
  • Auto
  • Education
  • Log Out
Follow Us On
Open App
  • ETIMES
  • CINEMA
  • VIDEOS
  • TV
  • LIFESTYLE
  • VISUAL STORIES
  • MUSIC
  • TRAVEL
  • FOOD
  • TRENDING
  • EVENTS
  • THEATRE
  • PHOTOS
  • MOVIE REVIEWS
  • MOVIE LISTINGS
  • HEALTH
  • RELATIONSHIP
  • WEB SERIES
  • BOX OFFICE

8 ’90s baby names making a comeback with Gen Alpha

TOI Lifestyle Desk
| ETimes.in | Last updated on - Apr 17, 2026, 09:40 IST
Comments
Share
1/9

Can the names from the 90’s era make a comeback?


There is something comforting about names from the 90s. They carry memories of simpler times, but they never truly feel old. Today, many parents are circling back to these names, but with a softer, more modern touch that fits Gen Alpha.
What makes these names special again? They strike a balance. They are rooted in tradition, yet they do not feel heavy. They are easy to say, easy to remember, and often carry a story that parents want their child to grow into. Here are 8 such names that are finding their way back into homes, this time with a fresh voice.

2/9

Rahul - Rayan

Rahul was once everywhere. It felt dependable, familiar, and strong. But today, many parents are leaning towards Rayan. It carries a similar softness but feels more global and fluid.

Rayan also has spiritual meaning in many cultures, often linked to “gates of heaven.” That adds a quiet depth, without sounding too traditional.

​8 rare baby boy names that start with the letter ‘K’​​

3/9

Pooja - Piku

Pooja was deeply rooted in devotion and culture. It still holds meaning, but modern parents are choosing something lighter like Piku.

Pihu feels playful. It brings a sense of warmth with itself. It keeps the emotional warmth of the original while sounding fresh and affectionate, especially in early childhood.

4/9

Amit - Ayaan

Amit was simple and strong, but over time, it began to feel too common. Now, Ayaan has taken its place in many homes.
Ayaan feels modern yet meaningful. It often translates to “gift of God,” which adds a gentle emotional layer parents connect with today.

5/9

Neha - Nyra

Neha once symbolised love and rain, a poetic choice for many families. Today, Nyra is emerging as a modern alternative.
Nyra feels sleek and contemporary, yet it still carries meanings like “beauty” or “grace.” It is short, elegant, and easy across cultures.

6/9

Vivek - Vihaan

Vivek stood for wisdom and clarity. While the meaning still resonates, the sound feels a bit dated to some parents.
Vihaan steps in with a brighter tone. It means “dawn” or “new beginning,” which reflects how many parents see their child, as a fresh start.

7/9

Anjali - Anaya

Anjali had a sacred and respectful feel. It still does, but many are now choosing Anaya for its softness and global appeal.
Anaya means “care” or “protection,” and the name flows easily. It feels both intimate and modern without losing cultural roots.

8/9

Sandeep - Samay

Sandeep once symbolised light and warmth. Today, parents are leaning toward Samay, a name that feels thoughtful and grounded.
Samay means “time,” but not in a rushed way. It reflects patience, presence, and the idea of living in the moment, values many parents now hold close.

9/9

Kavita - Kiara

Kavita was poetic by nature, often linked to creativity and expression. While still beautiful, many now prefer Kiara.
Kiara feels bright and international. It carries meanings like “light” or “clear,” and fits easily in both Indian and global settings.


Start a Conversation

Post comment
Featured In lifestyle
  • Disturbing facts about Snake Island: From tourist bans to chilling lighthouse legends
  • African proverb of the day: “Tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for...” — what this simple saying really tells us about planning, discipline, and time
  • Top 10 Indian cities where property prices have risen the most in 2026
  • From the elite class's hobby to contemporary decorative: How did bonsai making turn into a modern-day art form?
  • Greek proverbs of the day: "The tongue has no bones, but it breaks..."
  • 9 stunning places to visit in Lahaul Valley after crossing the Atal Tunnel in Himachal Pradesh
  • Quote of the day for kids by Nedra Glover Tawwab: “Permit yourself to change your mind when something is...”
  • 7 best low-maintenance plants for kitchen counters and windowsills
  • JEE Advanced AIR 1 credits family’s sacrifices for his success: Inside topper Shubham Kumar’s study strategy
Photostories
  • Katrina Kaif’s post-pregnancy style era is here, and it starts with a killer black overcoat
  • Hollywood's ugliest custody battles: From Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie to Rob Kardashian and Blac Chyna
  • Is Anushka Sharma’s white ensemble RCB’s new lucky charm? A throwback to her 2025 IPL finale look
  • Top 10 Indian cities where property prices have risen the most in 2026
  • From the elite class's hobby to contemporary decorative: How did bonsai making turn into a modern-day art form?
  • Love quote of the day by Louis de Bernières: ‘Love is not breathlessness; it’s not excitement’
  • How Ranveer Singh and Farhan Akhtar’s friendship exploded over ‘Don 3’: Inside Rs 45 crore fallout that led to FWICE directive
  • 9 stunning places to visit in Lahaul Valley after crossing the Atal Tunnel in Himachal Pradesh
  • 7 best low-maintenance plants for kitchen counters and windowsills
Explore more Stories
  • 9
    Cucumber (Kheera) vs Snake Cucumber (Kakdi): Which is more hydrating and how much to consume daily
  • 5
    Katrina Kaif’s post-pregnancy style era is here, and it starts with a killer black overcoat
  • 6
    The low-light garden: 5 Plant varieties that bloom without the Sun
  • 6
    ​The woman who sculpted her way out of a 15-year prison​
  • 11
    10 best countries for immigrants in 2026 and why they're also among the world's top travel destinations
Up Next
  • ETimes
  • /
  • Life & Style
  • /
  • Parenting
  • /
  • Parenting Stories
  • /
  • 8 ’90s baby names making a comeback with Gen Alpha
About UsTerms Of UsePrivacy PolicyCookie Policy

Copyright © Jun 2, 2026, 12.09AM IST Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. All rights reserved. For reprint rights: Times Syndication Service