Amrit, also known as the nectar of immortality, holds a crucial place in Hindu mythology as the elixir that grants the Devas eternal life. Initially, the Devas were mortal beings, and it was only upon learning that consuming Amrit could grant them immortality that they sought it. To obtain this nectar, they needed to churn the Ocean of Milk in Vaikunta—a task requiring the strength of their rivals, the Asuras.
The Devas and Asuras agreed to churn the ocean together and equally share its treasures. With Mount Mandara as the churning rod and the serpent Vasuki as the churning rope, they began the great Samudra Manthan, or “Churning of the Ocean,” with Vishnu overseeing the endeavor.
Among the many divine objects that emerged, Amrit was the most coveted. However, once Amrit appeared, Vishnu intervened to prevent the Asuras from claiming their share. Taking the form of the enchanting Mohini, he distracted the Asuras and ensured only the Devas received the nectar.
Yet one Asura, Rahu, disguised himself as a Deva and managed to drink a portion. The Sun (Surya) and Moon (Chandra) deities noticed this deceit and alerted Vishnu, who swiftly severed Rahu’s head with his Sudarshana Chakra. However, since Rahu had already consumed Amrit, his head and torso became immortal, leading to their placement in the heavens as celestial bodies. Rahu and his body, Ketu, are considered planets in Indian astrology, where they are believed to influence eclipses and symbolize dual forces in human lives. This story emphasizes the themes of divine intervention, cosmic balance, and the perpetual struggle between good and evil.