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Ananda (Samskrit: आनन्दः) is a term of great significance in Indian philosophical traditions and in other cultures. Across time and cultures, human beings attached great value to Ananda, and have been trying to find it. In this process, philosophies have been developed, books have been written and teachings have been given. The ideas of happiness are closely linked with the larger framework of reality and human nature which one carries in their mind. Conceptualization of the nature of happiness and well-being primarily depend on the worldview one holds that lead to differing assumptions on the nature of reality and of human nature. It has varied across cultures on a spectrum ranging from hedonic to transcendent viewpoints.<ref name=":4">Salagame, Kiran Kumar, "Happiness and well-being in Indian tradition," ''Psychological Studies'' 51, no. 2-3, (2006): 105-112.</ref> Happiness is not only an emotion but refers to living a good life, experiencing well-being and enjoying a good quality of life. Sukha (Samskrit: सुखम्), in contrast, is discussed in terms of worldly and heavenly pleasures as against Ananda which signifies eternal bliss which accompanies the end of the rebirth cycle (punarjanma rahityam).   

Ananda (Samskrit: आनन्दः) is a term of great significance in Indian philosophical traditions and in other cultures. Across time and cultures, human beings attached great value to Ananda, and have been trying to find it. In this process, philosophies have been developed, books have been written and teachings have been given. The ideas of happiness are closely linked with the larger framework of reality and human nature which one carries in their mind. Conceptualization of the nature of happiness and well-being primarily depend on the worldview one holds that lead to differing assumptions on the nature of reality and of human nature. It has varied across cultures on a spectrum ranging from hedonic to transcendent viewpoints.<ref name=":4">Salagame, Kiran Kumar, "Happiness and well-being in Indian tradition," ''Psychological Studies'' 51, no. 2-3, (2006): 105-112.</ref> Happiness is not only an emotion but refers to living a good life, experiencing well-being and enjoying a good quality of life. Sukha (Samskrit: सुखम्), in contrast, is discussed in terms of worldly and heavenly pleasures as against Ananda which signifies eternal bliss which accompanies the end of the rebirth cycle (punarjanma rahityam).