The 27 Nakshatras divide the 360° zodiac into equal 13°20' segments. Each Nakshatra is further split into 4 Padas of 3°20' each – creating 108 Padas total (27 x 4). Each Pada is assigned one or more starting syllables based on its position in the Navamsha (D-9) chart. The Moon's exact degree at birth determines the Pada, and therefore the prescribed syllable.

Namakarana is one of the 16 Samskaras (sacraments) in Hindu tradition. It is traditionally performed on the 11th or 12th day after birth, or on a day when the Moon is in an auspicious Nakshatra. The priest calculates the baby's birth Nakshatra and Pada, then announces the prescribed syllables. The family chooses a name beginning with one of these syllables. In some traditions, multiple names are given – a Nakshatra name (based on syllable), a Masa name (based on birth month), and a family/chosen name.

The primary tradition uses the Moon's Nakshatra for naming – this is the overwhelmingly common practice across India. However, some families also consider the Lagna (Ascendant) Nakshatra. When both are considered, the Moon Nakshatra name takes precedence as the 'official' name, while the Lagna Nakshatra syllable may influence a middle name or nickname. If the Moon is in Gandanta (junction between water and fire signs), some traditions prefer the Lagna Nakshatra instead.

Many modern families honour the tradition by ensuring the name starts with or contains the prescribed syllable, even if the full name is contemporary. For example, a child born in Rohini Pada 2 (syllable: Va) might be named 'Vanya' or 'Varun' – names that feel modern but carry the traditional vibration. Some families use the Nakshatra syllable name as a middle name while choosing a different first name. The key principle: the sound vibration of the syllable is what matters, not rigid adherence to any single format.