Here are some other words that could be used depending on the context:
* आद्य (ādya) - This word generally refers to the "first" in a series or order.
* अग्र (agra) - This word implies "foremost" or "leading".
* पूर्व (pūrva) - This word means "previous" or "former", and can sometimes be used to refer to the "first" in a sequence.
The best choice will depend on the specific context and nuance you are trying to convey.