In 2023, the subspecies seebohmi of southern India and Sri Lanka was elevated to a full species. The English name of Hanuman plover was suggested based on the mythology of the monkey god Hanuman who built a bridge between India and Lanka in the epic Ramayana.
In 2023, the subspecies seebohmi of southern India and Sri Lanka gained full species status. The name "Hanuman plover" was chosen due to its association with the mythological figure Hanuman from the Hindu epic Ramayana, who is known for his connection to the island of Lanka.