Indian Mythology Encyclopedia
The gods and goddesses of the Hindu cosmos, their powers, forms and stories.
130 entries
Quick facts In brief The fourth avatar of Vishnu, half man and half lion, who killed Hiranyakashipu. Position Fourth in the Dashavatara, in the Satya Yuga. Form Man-lion; human torso, leonine head and claws. Killed Hiranyakashipu, brother of Hiranyaksha. Devotee saved Prahlada, Hiranyakashipu’s son. Principal source Bhagavata Purana, Canto 7. Festival Narasimha Jayanti, Vaishakha shukla … Read more
Quick facts In brief The first avatar of Vishnu, a fish who saved Manu and the Vedas from a world-ending flood. Position First in the Dashavatara, in the Satya Yuga. Saved Manu, the seven sages, the seeds of all living things, and the Vedas. Earliest source Shatapatha Brahmana 1.8.1, where Vishnu is not yet named. … Read more
Quick facts In brief The second avatar of Vishnu, a tortoise who supported Mount Mandara during the churning of the ocean. Position Second in the Dashavatara, in the Satya Yuga. Event Samudra Manthan, the churning of the ocean of milk. Purpose To obtain amrita, the nectar of immortality. Yielded Fourteen treasures, including Lakshmi, Dhanvantari and … Read more
When diving into the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology, Shiva stands out as a figure of immense power and complexity. But to truly understand Shiva, one must also explore his consorts, who embody various aspects of the divine feminine. These goddesses, each with her unique attributes and stories, play crucial roles in the cosmic dance … Read more
Shiva – The Destroyer, one of the principal deities in Hinduism, isn’t just revered for his role as the destroyer and transformer. His divine relationships with his consorts, Parvati – The Consort of Shiva, Durga, and Kali, offer a rich tapestry of stories and symbolism that captivate millions. Each consort represents different aspects of life … Read more
Hanuman, the revered monkey god from the Indian epic Ramayana – Epic of Hinduism, has transcended ancient scriptures to become a cultural icon in modern Indian media. From animated series to blockbuster films, Hanuman’s representation has evolved, reflecting the changing dynamics of storytelling and technology. As I explore Hanuman’s portrayal across various media forms, it’s … Read more
Ganesha, the elephant-headed god, holds a special place in Hindu culture and spirituality. His role as the remover of obstacles makes him a key figure in both personal and communal spiritual practices. Known as the remover of obstacles and the god of beginnings, Ganesha’s blessings are sought before embarking on any new venture. From grand … Read more
Hanuman, the mighty monkey god, holds a special place in Hindu mythology. His birth story is a fascinating blend of divine intervention and celestial events. Born to Anjana and Kesari, Hanuman’s tale begins with a boon from the wind god, Vayu, making him a symbol of strength, devotion, and unwavering loyalty. As a child, Hanuman’s … Read more
When I think of Hanuman, the first thing that comes to mind is his incredible strength and unwavering devotion. As one of the most revered figures in Hindu mythology, Hanuman’s powers and abilities are nothing short of legendary. From his ability to leap across oceans to his immense wisdom and unwavering loyalty, Hanuman’s feats have … Read more
When I think about devotion, Ganesha instantly comes to mind. Known as the remover of obstacles and the god of beginnings, Ganesha holds a special place in the hearts of millions. His elephant head and round belly are iconic, but it’s his wisdom and benevolence that truly captivate devotees. Ganesha devotion isn’t just about rituals … Read more