Kalki (Sanskrit: कल्कि), also called Kalkin, is the prophesied tenth and final avatar of the Hindu god Vishnu in Vaishnava cosmology. According to Hindu tradition, Kalki is destined to appear at the end of the Kali Yuga, the last of the four ages or yugas in the cycle of existence, to vanquish evil and restore righteousness (dharma). His arrival will usher in the Satya Yuga, a golden age of virtue, before the ultimate dissolution of the universe (Mahapralaya). The name Kalki derives from Sanskrit काल (kāla) meaning "time" or "age," though some etymologies connect it to कर्क (karka) meaning "white"—a reference to the white horse he rides. Etymology The name Kalki is interpreted as "the destroyer of filth" or "the one who removes evil," linking to the root kalka (Sanskrit for "filth" or "sin"). This reflects his role in cleansing the world of adharma (unrighteousness). In the Puranas, Kalki is described as riding a white horse named Devadatta and wielding a fiery sword, symbols of purity and justice. Notable Bearers The name Kalki appears as the final avatar in the classic dasavatara (ten avatars) of Vishnu. While not historical figures, notable depictions include literary reinterpretation in Kalki Krishnamurthy's Tamil novel Kalvanin Kaathali and in modern popular culture, such as the Kalki 2898 AD (2024) film. The name also features in Theosophical and New Age movements, often symbolizing spiritual transformation. Cultural Significance In Hindu eschatology, Kalki's arrival marks the end of the darkest period of adharma, corrupt rulers, and societal decay. His narrative appears in various Puranas, including the Vishnu Purana and Bhagavata Purana, as well as in the Mahabharata. Kalki also parallels similar messianic figures in Buddhism (Maitreya) and Sikhism (the prophetic sword-wielding warrior in Dasam Granth), reflecting a broader Indo-Aryan theme of a final savior. Etymology-Expanded Though commonly associated with chronos (time), the name's alternative proposed origin from karka (white) points to Kalki's association with the white horse Devadatta, a contrast to darker Kali Yuga. Variant Forms Kalkin (Sanskrit) is a less common variant, and the name appears as a surname in modern India, notably borne by the Indian author Kalki (writer) (real name R. Krishnamurthy). Meaning: "Time, age" or possibly "white" (prophesied avenger of righteousness) Origin: Sanskrit Type: First name (primarily male) Usage Regions: Hindu community, India; also in modern Tamil literature