Viswanathan is a common South Indian name, often associated with notable individuals in various fields. One of the most famous bearers of this name is Viswanathan Anand, an Indian chess grandmaster and former World Chess Champion. He is known for his contributions to the game and has won numerous international titles. The name itself is derived from Sanskrit, meaning "one who is devoted to Lord Vishnu." It is often used in Hindu culture and can be found in various forms across India. Many people with this name have made significant contributions to arts, science, and sports.