Gulisa

**Gulisa** (female) possesses an unusual and mysterious atmosphere, making it particularly intriguing. Its meaning originates from the Iranian language, where it derives from the Persian word ***golestān*** («flowering garden»), closely connected with the term ***gul*** («flower») and ***bustān*** («garden»), as well as the concept ***guldastā*** («flowering»). In Islamic tradition, this name is often associated with the idea of a beautiful, pure, and life-affirming sanctuary. On the East, especially in Persia and India, **Gulisa** (or **Gulysara**) was one of the revered female names, frequently bestowed upon girls or used as a nickname for outstanding women. The popularization of the name in Russia is closely linked to the globally famous poetic epic of the 11th century – the ***Shāh-nāma*** by Firdausi. In this epic work, one of the main heroines, the daughter of the great king Kavuk, is named Gul Shad («Flowering Garden»), which became the starting point for the spread of the name among Russian-speaking peoples. Although today the name **Gulisa** is extremely rare in Russia, it can be found in Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Tajikistan), where it retains its popularity. Characteristic traits of the name **Gulisa** are often associated with the image of a refined, educated, and sensitive personality. A woman named Gulisa is often perceived as a person with deep inner experiences, a strong inner light, and the ability to perceive beauty with nuance. She usually has a rich imagination, independent thinking, and a tendency towards the arts and literature. Known bearers of the name **Gulisa** in the modern Russian-speaking sphere are virtually nonexistent, however, the name sounds appropriate and harmonious for personalities such as **Gulnazar** Alievna Alieva (performer, singer), as well as in the names and titles of characters in literature and film (for example, **Gulnazar** from the TV series ***Grass Plains of Caucasus***). In the world, it belongs to famous singers, actresses, and writers from the CIS countries. The popularity of the name **Gulisa** today carries more of an exotic and literary connotation. It is not used in everyday practice in Russia, but remains relevant in Kazakhstan and Tajikistan. Overall, the name is rare but possesses deep meaning and aesthetic value. Common variants and diminutives of the name are **Gulnaz**, **Gulzar**, **Gulsara**.