National Tara Day

History of National Tara Day

Tara has roots in Sanskrit and Gaelic; in Sanskrit, it means ‘star,’ and in Gaelic, it means ‘hill.’ The name is, however, more commonly given to girls and is a popular name in Irish households. The name is derived from The Hill of Tara, an ancient location in Meath, Ireland. According to mythology, this was the residence of Ireland’s High King, giving the name Tara regal prominence in Irish folklore. Tara represents the brightness of the soul in Sanskrit. Tara, the goddess of protection and compassion, was also one of Shiva’s wives in Hindu mythology. A baby given the name Tara, rich in history and preceded by legends, is bound to soar.

The name Tara was popular in the United States during the 1970s, most likely because it was the name of Scarlett O’Hara’s plantation in the 1939 film “Gone with the Wind,” as well as Tara King in the 1960s British television series “The Avengers.” Another famous one is Tara Martin from the early 1970s American soap opera “All My Children.” From 2000 to 2005, Tara was listed somewhere between the 30th and 40th most common girl’s name in Ireland.

Due to its association with various goddesses, it is also frequently considered a feminine name in Asia. Tara, for example, is a female Buddha in Buddhism and a deity in Hinduism. In terms of characteristics, Taras can be shy and kind, and they become sensitive and emotional as you get to know them. They are kind-hearted, witty, and beloved. If you come across a Tara, never let her go; it’s like finding pure gold once in a lifetime.

National Tara Day timeline

600 B.C.

The Sect of Tara

The Shakti sect of Hinduism, which honors the goddess Tara, is established.

1997

“The Book of Tara”

“The Book of Tara,” a book about the Stone of Destiny in Ireland written by Michael Slavin, is published.

2009

Showtime

The television show “United States of Tara,” premieres on Showtime and it follows the life of a suburban artist and mother coping with a dissociative identity disorder.

2010

Pomegranate Poetry

“This is Not a Pomegranate,” a poetry collection by Iranian-Canadian writer Tara Aghdashloo, is published.

National Tara Day FAQs

When is National Tara Day?

In 2027, National Tara Day will be observed on a Monday, January 11. Kick off the work week by recognizing the special qualities of any Tara you know.

How many people are named Tara?

The name Tara peaked in popularity in the 1970s and 80s, consistently ranking among the top 100 names for girls. Today, it remains a cherished name for many, with thousands celebrating this special day.

What does the name Tara mean?

Beyond its celestial and geographical roots, Tara is also a short form of names like Tamara or Taryn. This rich etymological background adds depth and significance to the name, reflecting diverse heritage.

Is Tara a common name for goddesses?

The goddess Tara is celebrated for her ability to overcome obstacles and offer protection, particularly in Vajrayana Buddhism. Her widespread veneration across different pantheons underscores the powerful and auspicious nature of the name.

National Tara Day Activities

Watch “United States of Tara”

The show, which focuses on an American artist diagnosed with a dissociative identity disorder, is all about a mentally ill woman’s challenges as she navigates the ups and downs of her illness, her marriage, career, and children. It’s a celebrated television show that is sure to entertain you for hours, and that will make you think about mental health issues in the United States.

Learn more about the Hindu goddess, Tara

Tara is a highly favored goddess in the Hindu religion. She is known as the goddess of protection and compassion and has inspired countless women worldwide to find their voice, speak up for themselves, and take charge of their lives. Celebrating National Tara Day would be impossible without this iconic traditional and religious figure that so heavily inspires and encourages.

Send your friend Tara a gift

The act of giving someone a gift is something that makes you feel good about yourself and that shows the receiver that you care for them and think about them. Some ideas include Tara Aghdashloo’s poetry collection and a quirky film that stars American actress Tara Reid. Celebrating someone by treating them to a fun homage to their name is an extra special way of commemorating this day.

5 Famous Taras

Tara MacLean

MacLean is a Canadian musician, singer, and composer and is famous for her hit songs, ‘Evidence,’ and ‘If I Fall.’

Tara Moss

Moss, a Canadian-Australian author, documentary maker, and presenter, is also known for being a UNICEF national ambassador for child survival.

Tara O'Toole

O’Toole served as Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Science and Technology and is currently a senior fellow and executive vice president at In-Q-Tel.

Tara Sutton

Sutton is a Canadian journalist and filmmaker and is considered a pioneer in video journalism.

Tara Browne

Browne, a London-based Irish socialite, was the heir to the Guinness fortune.

Why We Love National Tara Day

They are kind-hearted and witty

It has been proven through various statistics and questionnaires that Taras are seen as kind-hearted and witty individuals, which is something we love about them. Being funny and, at the same time, kind and warm requires a specific balance of humor and emotional intelligence, which we respect.

It honors a religious figure

By honoring the Hindu goddess, Tara, we conserve the religious ties that so many people have to this particular aspirational figure. Many women and mothers have been inspired by her legacy, and for years to come, more women will feel the same way, so much so that they may actually name their child Tara.

Inspires a journalistic temperament

We’re inspired by people like Tara Sutton, who pioneered the field of video journalism, giving a voice to millions of journalists around the globe and female journalists who could now film their own footage and interviews for global release. If there is a Tara worth celebrating in today’s society, it certainly is Sutton.