Anupam Mittal Breaks Tradition with His Daughter’s Name
New Delhi | 23April 2025 — Anupam Mittal, the man behind Shaadi.com and a familiar face on Shark Tank India, recently made a quiet but powerful statement—through his daughter’s name. No press conference, no big speech. Just a deeply thoughtful choice that breaks away from tradition in the most meaningful way.
In most Indian households, a girl’s name is often tied to the men around her—first her father, and later, her husband. It’s so normalized, we barely think twice about it. But Anupam Mittal and his wife Aanchal Kumar did. And they decided to do things differently.
Their daughter, Alyssa Anantara, isn’t carrying her father’s name. Or any man’s name. Instead, she’s starting life with an identity that’s entirely her own. And that’s the whole point.
“Let Her Start as Herself” – Anupam Mittal
In a heartfelt LinkedIn post, Anupam Mittal explained the reasoning behind their decision. “In a world where women are still introduced as someone’s daughter, someone’s wife, someone’s mother… we just wanted her to start as herself,” he wrote.
He admitted that yes, a name might seem like a small thing. But then again—it’s not. “For us, it was a way of saying—you don’t have to carry forward anyone’s legacy. You are not defined by the men in your life. You are free to write your own story.”
Her middle name, Anantara, means “boundless.” It’s inspired by goddess Saraswati—symbol of wisdom, learning, and freedom. For Anupam Mittal and Aanchal, it wasn’t just about choosing a pretty name—it was about planting a belief right from the start: their daughter is limitless.
Raised by Strong Women, Now Raising One
Anupam’s views on gender equality aren’t new. He’s often spoken about how strong women shaped his life. From his grandmother and mother to his sisters, he credits them for showing him what strength, independence, and leadership look like.
On Women’s Day, he shared on social media: “I have been raised and influenced by strong women all my life… no wonder I am a feminist.” That upbringing seems to have shaped the way he and his wife are choosing to parent their daughter—with intention and awareness.
A Name That Stands on Its Own
The decision has sparked a wave of appreciation online. Many praised the couple for redefining what naming can look like in modern India. Rather than anchoring Alyssa’s identity in someone else’s, they’ve chosen to give her a clean slate—one where she defines herself.
It’s a small act, perhaps, but a deeply symbolic one. In a culture steeped in tradition, breaking away from even something as common as a naming practice can send a loud, meaningful message.
The Internet Is Here for It
Anupam Mittal’s post struck a deep chord online. The comment section was filled with warmth, as many applauded their bold and thoughtful decision. Many shared how names, though often overlooked, hold deep emotional meaning that symbolize security, legacy, or quiet strength.
Some reflected on their own names and the sense of belonging it brings. Others appreciated how Alyssa’s name carves a space for individuality from the start. It wasn’t just about breaking tradition—it was about rewriting what identity can look like for the next generation.
And while most hailed it as an empowering step, a few gently reminded that beyond names, it’s the love, support, and values we pass on that truly shape a child.