20 Dec 2011 - QA 16

Guruji, what is the importance of a name? If there is nothing, then why do Swamis and Rishis after becoming Swamis and Rishis, get a new name?
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: It is an ancient tradition. A name is an inspiration.
Swamis and Rishis get a new name because a new chapter of their life has begun, from being somebody to becoming really nobody.