Originating from the Sanskrit language, the name Ashok carries a powerful meaning. It is derived from the word "ashoka," which translates to "without sorrow" or "someone who alleviates pain." In Hindi, Ashok is pronounced as uh-SHOK (/əˈʃoʊk/). This name is associated with Emperor Ashoka, an influential figure in Indian history known for his conversion to Buddhism and his efforts to promote peace and non-violence. The name Ashok has gained popularity in recent years in the United States, with occurrences steadily increasing. While it may not be among the most common names, its unique sound and meaningful origins make it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a strong and compassionate name for their baby boy.
| Ashok Gehlot is an Indian politician who served three terms as Chief Minister of Rajasthan. |
| Ashok Kumar was a legendary Indian actor celebrated as Hindi cinema's first superstar and a pioneer of complex leading roles. |
| Ashok Seth is an Indian cardiologist renowned for his record-setting heart procedures and honored with the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan. |
| Ashok Kumar Banker is an Indian author and screenwriter best known for his bestselling retellings of Indian mythology, including the Ramayana. |
| Ashok Venkitaraman is a British cancer researcher who has held leading scientific roles in Singapore and at the University of Cambridge. |
| Ashok Lavasa is a retired Indian civil servant who served as Election Commissioner of India and vice president of the Asian Development Bank. |
| Ashok Malhotra is an Indian professor, author and higher education professional. |
| Ashok Kamte was an Indian police officer who was posthumously awarded the Ashoka Chakra for his bravery during the 2008 Mumbai attacks. |
| Ashok Amritraj is an Indian-American film producer, former professional tennis player, and chairman and CEO of Hyde Park Entertainment Group. |
| Ashok Kumar Pradhan is an Indian industrialist and politician who represented Khurja in the Lok Sabha for the BJP from 1996 to 2009. |
| Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju is an Indian politician, governor of Goa and former Union Minister for Civil Aviation. |
| Ashok Abhaiendra Desai was an Indian judge who served as the first chief justice of the Uttarakhand High Court from 2000 to 2003. |
| Ashok Bajaj is a Washington, DC restaurateur who leads the Knightsbridge Restaurant Group. |
| Ashok K. Vaid is an Indian oncologist known for pioneering bone marrow transplants in North India's private healthcare sector. |