On December 15th each year, the global Otaku Day is celebrated, and this year Peru is particularly excited about it. The National Registry of Identification and Civil Status (RENIEC) has announced a unique list of names inspired by the beloved anime culture, showcasing how these names influence the identities of the new generation.
This phenomenon serves as a testament to the cultural impact of anime in this country.
The top name on the list is Saori, which has been registered 9,221 times. This name evokes a sense of elegance and nostalgia, closely associated with female characters who symbolize the youth of many Peruvians, primarily Saori Kido, also known as Athena from Saint Seiya.
However, the second most popular name is Gregory, with 3,564 registrations. Although it does not have a clear connection to anime, its widespread usage in Peru indicates a natural phenomenon.
Following closely, Aiko ranks third with 1,743 registrations. This name holds significant cultural meaning in Japan and has captured the hearts of many fathers. Next on the list are Benji (1,003), appealing to sports anime fans, and Sakura (576), a name that endures over time like cherry blossoms, reflecting beloved female characters.
Interestingly, some iconic anime characters appear less frequently on this list.
Naruto only garnered 10 registrations, while Goku, the legendary hero, received just 8. It’s clear that despite these characters being favorites among millions, they do not resonate as strongly with Peru’s fathers, who seem to prefer names that evoke broader sentiments rather than direct references to anime.
In contrast, names of characters from contemporary anime like Nezuko (17) and Tanjiro (39) from Demon Slayer show a powerful reflection of modern influences on the naming trends today. Classic names like Zoro (8), Inuyasha (8), and Shaka (3) have also made their way onto the list, indicating a continued affection for legendary characters in anime.
At the end of the list is Saitama, with just one registration. The protagonist from One Punch Man seems to stand out as a unique choice for naming children.
Today, many fathers consider names like Saori, Aiko, or Sakura as a way to remember their childhood while sharing these beloved characters with their children. In contrast, names of iconic heroes like Goku or Naruto, though less common, still represent strength and determination that many aspire to embody.
As long as anime continues to inspire, these names will undoubtedly continue to leave a mark in Peru, connecting the past, present, and future of anime enthusiasts.
