In Hindu mythology, the concept of the end of the world is known as "pralaya" or "Mahapralaya," which signifies the dissolution or destruction of the universe. According to Hindu cosmology, the universe undergoes cycles of creation, preservation, and destruction, known as "Yugas." The end of each cosmic cycle heralds the onset of a new cycle, marking the beginning of a new epoch.

The Hindu scriptures, particularly the Puranas, describe several theories and narratives about how the earth ends. While interpretations may vary across different texts and traditions, some common themes and theories include:

1. **Kalki Avatar and the End of Kali Yuga:**
  According to Hindu scriptures, the current epoch, known as the Kali Yuga, is characterized by moral and spiritual decline, corruption, and chaos. It is believed that during this time, the world will be filled with strife, suffering, and injustice. The Kalki Avatar, the tenth and final incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is prophesied to appear at the end of the Kali Yuga to restore righteousness (dharma) and usher in a new era of truth and justice. Kalki is depicted as riding a white horse and wielding a sword, symbolizing his role as a divine warrior who vanquishes evil forces.

2. **Destruction by Natural Elements:**
  Hindu mythology also describes the end of the world through cataclysmic events and natural disasters. These include floods, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and cosmic upheavals that devastate the earth and its inhabitants. These catastrophic events are often associated with the wrath of cosmic deities or celestial phenomena, such as the alignment of planets or the onset of a cosmic winter.

3. **Pralaya and Dissolution of the Universe:**
  The concept of "Pralaya" or cosmic dissolution signifies the end of the universe and the dissolution of all creation. It is described as a period of immense upheaval and destruction, where the cosmos returns to its primal state. Pralaya is believed to occur cyclically, marking the end of each cosmic epoch and paving the way for a new cycle of creation. During Pralaya, the elements of the universe dissolve back into their primordial forms, and all living beings merge back into the cosmic consciousness.

4. **Cycle of Creation and Renewal:**
  Despite the cataclysmic events associated with the end of the world, Hindu mythology also emphasizes the cyclical nature of existence. The end of one cosmic cycle marks the beginning of another, symbolizing the eternal cycle of creation, preservation, and dissolution. Just as the universe undergoes periods of destruction, it also experiences cycles of renewal and rebirth, signifying the enduring power of creation and the eternal order of the cosmos.