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Scriptures & Texts

The Vedas, Upanishads, Gita and Puranas, the sources of the tradition.

279 entries

Shuka – Son of Vyasa

Shuka – Son of Vyasa

शुक Shuka – The Illustrious Son of Vyasa Shuka, also known as Shukadeva, is a celebrated figure in Hindu mythology, renowned for his wisdom, spiritual prowess, and connection to some of the most profound scriptures, including the Bhagavata Purana. As the son of Vyasa, the compiler of the Vedas and composer of the Mahabharata – … Read more

Shwetaketu – Son of Uddalaka

Ketu – The Torso of an Asura

श्वेतकेतु The Life and Legacy of Shwetaketu Shwetaketu, the son of the revered sage Uddalaka – Grandfather of Ashtavakra, is a significant figure in Hindu mythology and philosophy. Known for his learning, pride, and contributions to moral and social codes, Shwetaketu appears in several key texts, including the Mahabharata – The Great Epic and the … Read more

Soma – The Moon

Soma – The Moon

सोम Soma holds a multifaceted role in Hindu mythology and Vedic tradition. Soma is not only another name for Chandra, the Moon God, but also the name of the sacred intoxicating drink offered to the Vedic Gods during rituals. The Rig Veda, one of the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism, often addresses Soma as a … Read more

SaptaRishis – The Seven Great Sages

SaptaRishis – The Seven Great Sages

The SaptaRishis: The Seven Great Sages of Indian Mythology The SaptaRishis, or the Seven Great Sages, hold a revered position in Hindu and Indian mythology. These sages are said to have attained a semi-immortal status through their immense yogic powers and the strength of their penance (tapasya). They are venerated as the guiding lights of … Read more

Maarkandeya – Conqueror of Death

Maarkandeya – Conqueror of Death

मार्कण्डेय Once there was a Brahmana couple who had been issueless for a very long time. To fulfill their heartfelt desire for a child, they practiced severe austerities and penances directed towards Lord Shiva. In Hindu mythology, it is common for childless couples to seek divine intervention, often turning to deities like Shiva, Vishnu, or … Read more

Prithu – Ancestor of Rama

Prithu – Ancestor of Rama

Prithu is a celebrated king of the Solar dynasty, one of the most revered lineages in Hindu mythology, renowned for its righteous and powerful rulers.As an ancestor of Rama, Prithu played a significant role in shaping the values and legacy of the Solar dynasty. He is known as the son of Anaranya and the father … Read more

Maru – Ancestor of Rama

Maru – Ancestor of Rama

Maru was a king of the Solar dynasty, a royal lineage renowned for its adherence to dharma (righteousness) and for producing legendary figures. As the son of Shighraga and an ancestor of Rama – An Incarnation of Vishnu, Maru belonged to the illustrious Ikshvaku – An Ancestor of Rama lineage, which traced its origins to … Read more

Mitra – Protector of Oaths

Mitra – Protector of Oaths

मित्र Mitra is a deity of the pre-Vedic period, a figure whose roots trace back to ancient Indo-Iranian culture, signifying his importance across different cultures and eras. In the Rig Veda, he is primarily addressed in the dual form Mitra-Varuna and sometimes as part of the dual invocation Mitra-Indra. His association with Varuna – The … Read more

Kshatriyas – Kings and Warriors

Kshatriyas – Kings and Warriors

क्ष्त्रिय Kshatriyas are the kings and warriors in the Varna system (the ancient Indian social hierarchy). They come next after the Brahmanas in the ranking of castes and are primarily tasked with protecting and governing society. The Kshatriya role, embodying strength, valor, and duty, is central to many of the most well-known stories and characters … Read more

Manu – Ancestor of Rama

Manu – Ancestor of Rama

Manu – The First Prajapati – The Creators and Father of Humanity Aspect Detail Role Prajapati (Lord of all creatures), the progenitor of mankind, often regarded as the first man and lawgiver in Hindu mythology. Parentage Son of Vivasvant – The Sun God (the sun god), making him a descendant of the solar lineage. Notable … Read more