Named ‘India’: Woman shares how her unique name brought teasing and a surprising backstory

In an age where social media has become a space for sharing personal stories, some experiences manage to resonate far beyond the individual. One such story is that of India Witkin, whose journey with her unique name has struck a chord with many online.

Names are often more than just words– they carry cultural significance, family history, and personal identity. For India, her name has been both a source of curiosity and challenge, shaping her experiences from childhood teasing to moments of cultural connection. Through her candid reflections, she shows how something as simple as a name can influence confidence, self-acceptance, and pride, turning what once felt like a burden into a meaningful celebration of heritage.A complicated relationship with her nameWatch the viral video here: Growing up, India Witkin often found her name to be a source of attention– and not always the kind she wanted. “I grew up having such a love-hate relationship with my name. I was teased in America, then questioned in India... I cared too much about what people thought and never appreciated the uniqueness of my name,” she wrote.It wasn’t until she reached adulthood that her perspective shifted. “Finally, at 18, as I entered adulthood (I even wrote my college essay about my name), I started to come around to it. Now, at 29 years old, I love it and am so grateful to my nani for coming up with it. Thank you to my parents!”The story behind the nameResponding to a follower who asked about the origin of her name, Witkin shared that her parents had been undecided before her birth.

Just a week prior, her grandmother– affectionately called nani– suggested the name “India.” Her parents accepted the idea, and it became her name after she was born.Witkin explained that her nani intended the name to be a reminder of her roots. She described it as a tribute to the rich and expansive culture of India, a connection she deeply values.Reactions on social mediaHer story has garnered appreciation from online audiences. One comment read, “What better way to honour your roots!” Another added, “Incredible and wonderful.”Fans also praised the thoughtfulness behind her name. “I LOVE that they named you that! So beautiful,” said one, while another wrote, “What a beautiful story. Love this so much.”India Witkin’s experience is a reminder of how a name can carry more than identity– it can hold history, culture, and a sense of belonging across generations.Thumb image: Instagram/ India Witkin