How would you pronounce Aryan?

[Icloud54]

Thank you

I don't think I would use this name due to the negative associations - as this thread shows, not everyone is aware of its Asian origins, whereas the majority of British people are aware of the nazi association

Have you read the thread Carrie?

It's of Persian origin, used in India, but has been appropriated by the Nazis.

The swastika was flipped over so its arms point the other way (if that makes sense).

Surprised so many people don't know of this name! I know it's an Asian name but it still does make me think of Nazis I'm afraid. But then so does Aria/Arya which is very popular too.

Im surprised I hadn't heard of it as I've got a number of Indian friends, read a lot of Indian literature and philosophy.

I'm familiar with Arun and Arjun/a.

I'd guess it's more common in India/Pakistan/Iran than in the west. Parents would realise the connection within a society and make the call.

A relative has a name that sounds very much like a racial slur of pronounced on one 'proper' way to an American ear. She only realised when someone yelled her name over the street and he was met with a lot of scowls and bristling.

Arya (for a girl) and Aryan (for a boy) are very common names in India. It comes from the Indo-Persian word Arya meaning Noble. Aryan being somebody that follows Arya Dharma ie the noble way of life. Nazis took up some dodgy research and misconstrued the word to indicate white, blue eyed, blonde race. And introduced the racial construction. Just as they took over the Hindu swastika, turned it around and appropriated it.
Hindus would not give up something that has cultural significance just because a monster chose to use it. Kids in India are still named Aryan (shahrukh khan's son for eg) and we will use the Hindu swastika.

However, it's in the child's interest to consider how the name is perceived and whether it can be mispronounced easily or used to tease the kid with. Dixit is a very common surname in India, but it was only here that I sensed how a child with that surname could get teased by other kids.

Similarly Isis is the name of an Egyptian goddess, so would surely be a popular name. So unfortunate for all those already named Isis

LOL

I taught a Persian boy called Ariean, pronounced Air-ee-an.

If you like it, I’d change the spelling. It just jars in English regardless of origin.

I know a child called Aryan. It is an Arabic name.
Not sure why it is classed as racist. Can someone please tell me as I am confused.

Oh, ive just realised!