Meaning and history
Padmavati is a Sanskrit feminine name meaning “possessing lotuses” or “she who is like a lotus,” from padma, “lotus,” with a possessive suffix. The lotus is an important symbol of purity and divine beauty in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions. Padmavati is the name of several religious figures, including a Jain protective goddess, and of a legendary queen celebrated in Malik Muhammad Jayasi’s poem Padmavat. Indian actor and theatre artist Padmavati Rao is a notable bearer.