Vikram, also Vickram, Vickrum, is a given name. The most common understanding of the name Vikram is valorous—one who is wise, brave and strong as well as victorious. Like many Hindu names, the name Vikram has a number of significant interpretations and connections. Etymology Sanskrit In Sanskrit, Vikrama is composed of two roots: vi: abbreviated form of the root vis-, meaning "to work" Krama: a step, stride, or path A literal interpretation of this combination is a "worker's stride". This is the original etymology. Alternate interpretation Another possible etymological interpretation of Vikram is vik-: Sanskrit/Indo-European root referring to victory/smart/handsome ram-: referring to the deity Rama Though the -kr- phoneme in Sanskrit/Hindi is differently represented in this etymology, so the spelling and pronunciation in Devangari would not be the same, its English spelling and pronunciation is unchanged, making it a homonym, which can be interpreted to refer to 'victorious Rama'. Interpretations Philosophical In the Hindu philosophy context, the primary etymological interpretation of the name Vikram as "worker's stride" can signify a range of concepts around one who undertakes purposeful action. The notion of "work is worship" is central to the karma yoga branch of the Yoga path of Hindu spirituality. A person's karma consists of the action they take relative to their duties, called dharma. One's dharma is broadly defined by one's age and position in life—which may be student hood, familial duties or discipleship of a guru among others. In karma yoga, the diligent performance of life duties is the path to Nirvana. The name Vikram then suggests one whose primary path is that of a karma yogi, with supporting commitment to the paths of devotion (bhakti) or knowledge (jnana). As these paths are intertwined, the name Vikram may be applied to one who embodies these principle of devoted, thoughtful action. When practiced by a man as a matter of course, it may be recognized as valor—wise, diligent, brave, and strong at once. Literary The elucidation of the three major yogic paths (karma, bhakti, jnana) of yoga is a primary focus of the Bhagavad Geeta, in which Krishna (an avatar of Vishnu) urges Prince Arjuna to engage in his dutiful action, which in that case is to lead his army into war. Arjuna's courage is the most widely known example of the spirit of human valor inspired by an avatar of Vishnu. Vaishnavite As a name, Vikram is commonly known