Ananta

Ananta is a Sanskrit term meaning endless or infinite. It functions as both an adjective and a proper name in Indian languages and literature, appearing in religious texts, poetry, and everyday usage. As a given name, Ananta is common in India and Nepal and among the Indian diaspora, often abbreviated or combined in compound names such as Anant Kumar or Ananta Chandra.

In Hindu mythology, Ananta is most closely associated with Shesha, the cosmic serpent who resides on the primordial waters and serves as the bed on which Vishnu rests in creation. The name emphasizes the serpent’s infinite aspect, and he is commonly described as the king of serpents and a personification of timeless eternity. Vishnu is frequently depicted resting on Ananta, with Lakshmi seated on Vishnu’s chest, symbolizing the maintenance and endless cycle of the universe.

Beyond myth, Ananta is used in modern times as a personal name and appears in cultural, literary, and commercial contexts, reflecting its associations with eternity, stability, and universality. The term also appears in various compound forms and transliterations, such as Anant, Ananta, or Anantā, depending on language and preference.

Overall, Ananta embodies a rich confluence of linguistic meaning and mythological significance, continuing to be a recognizable and versatile element in South Asian culture.