amrita

Amrita is a Sanskrit term that means immortality or nectar of immortality. The word is often translated as amṛta, signifying a divine drink that confers eternal life, and it appears across Hindu religious literature and Indian cultural usage. As a name, Amrita is common in South Asia for people and places.

In Hindu mythology, amrita refers to the elixir of immortality produced during the churning of the Ocean of Milk (samudra manthan) by the gods (devas) and demons (asuras). According to the myth, the god Dhanvantari emerges with a pot of amrita, and the nectar is sought by both sides. The story is typically told to explain the origin of divine immortality and the privileged status of the gods, though some versions emphasize the role of deception or partial distribution.

Culturally, amrita has permeated literature, devotional poetry, and everyday language as a symbol of life force, vitality, and renewal. It is used in names for people, institutions, and products, reflecting its positive associations with health and enduring significance.

In modern times, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, commonly referred to as Amrita University, is a private deemed university in India founded by Mata Amritanandayi Devi (Amma). It operates multiple campuses, including in Amritapuri, Coimbatore, Kochi, and Bengaluru, and offers programs across engineering, sciences, medicine, arts, and humanities. The institution emphasizes research, social service, and interdisciplinary education, aligning with the broader cultural resonance of amrita as a source of knowledge and life.