Huw said:Yama is the Indian equivalent. If the name is too familiar, here is what he's known as amongst the neighbours:
China: Yen Wang
Tibet: Phyi sgrub
Japan: Emma O
Bali: Yama Raja
Most of these translate as "King Yama". So, you could have everyone refer in fearful terms to "the King", without elaborating.
A bit straying from the topic, but I don't think it's right to say that Yama is the Indian equivalent of Orcus. Yes, Yama is a god of Death and can be terrifying to behold, but he's not really an evil figure. He doubles as the god of duty at times and is certainly an aid to some Hindu heroes (shows up in the Mahabharata to test Yudhistira for instance). Certainly his portfolio wouldn't include wanton destruction and the promotion of undeath. In short-- he's no more the equivalent of Orcus than any death god.
Truth be told, just in terms of image, Siva might be closer in his skull bearer aspect. Again-- horrifying to behold. Notably he's often attended by ghouls and very undead type creatures. That's sort of Orcus like. But once again, clearly-- very clearly-- Siva is not an evil demonic god of death.
At any rate, that's why I'd shy from Hindu gods and toward Asuras. (not that some Asuras weren't noble and righteous, but on average they more fit the bill).
But enough. I realize we're just trying to come up with an 'Indian' sounding name for a fantasy game, not replicate existing mythology.
Cheers,
AD