Ragu

The name Ragu has distinct origins and meanings depending on the cultural context. In Sanskrit, 'Rahu' (often transliterated as Ragu) refers to a mythical asura (demon) who swallows the sun or moon, causing eclipses. This celestial body is also one of the Navagraha (nine planets) in Hindu astrology, representing the ascending lunar node. Separately, in some South Indian contexts, 'Ragu' can be a short form or a variant of names like Raghunath or Raghav, which are associated with Lord Rama and mean 'lord of the Raghus' or 'descendant of Raghu'. The name's usage as a given name is more common in India, where it can be used for both males and females, though its association with the astrological entity Rahu is predominantly masculine.