What’s in a nickname? A lot, according to a new survey by Snapchat and YouGov

What do Sonu, Babu, Chotu, Annu, and Chintu have in common? They are some of the most popular nicknames in India, according to a new study by Snapchat and YouGov.

The study has also inspired two new nickname-themed AR Lenses on Snapchat. (Express image)

Many of us have a friend or a relative who goes by a nickname rather than their given name. A recent study by Snapchat and YouGov on the Indian culture of nicknames reveals that this practice is more widespread than we might think. The survey shows that 96% of Indians have used a nickname at some point in their lives.

Different regions of India have different nicknames that they like, according to the survey, but Sonu, Babu, Chotu, Annu, and Chintu are the most common ones across the country. In the North, people often go by Golu and Sunny, in the South by Ammu and Macha, in the East by Shona and Mishti, and in the West by Pinky and Dada.

The majority of the survey respondents (60%) said they got their nicknames in childhood or school, and many Gen Zs and millennials still use them online. They do so for various reasons, such as appearing cool, protecting their privacy, or making them easier to remember.

Other interesting observations made by the survey include that nicknames are a ‘matter of pride,’ with only 15% of the respondents saying that they’re embarrassed to use their nicknames publicly. 67% of the respondents also revealed that they use nicknames to feel closer to someone, highlighting how nicknames are used to build deeper connections and validate relationships in the country.

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New AR Lenses based on these findings

The study has inspired two new nickname-themed Augmented Reality (AR) Lens on Snapchat – ‘India’s Top Nicknames’ and ‘My Nickname’. The first includes five bespoke designs featuring India’s favourite nicknames, while the second can be used by Snapchatters to create their very own nickname.

The two nickname lenses will be available in India from June 21. Users can search for ‘IN Top Nicknames’ and ‘My Nickname IN’ in the lens carousel to get in on the fun.