Helka

Helka is a Finnish and Hungarian feminine given name, most likely a diminutive or pet form of Helena, itself derived from the ancient Greek Helene, whose root is debated but often linked to the Greek word for torch or light, or possibly to Selene, the moon goddess. In Finnish tradition the name is associated with a famous cycle of folk poetry, the Helka songs, sung by women in the Savo region during the Helka festival, giving the name a distinctly national and mythological resonance. Related forms include Helka's parent name Helena as well as Heli and Helvi, which circulate in the same Nordic naming tradition.