According to legends, Lakshmi emerged from the cosmic ocean during the Samudra Manthan done by the Devas and Asuras to obtain Amrit. Similarly, a pure white, seven-headed horse called Uchhaisravas also emerged from the ocean at the same time. Since both Lakshmi and Ucchaisravas were “born” from the Kshirsagar, they are considered siblings.  

The word Kapila has several references in the Puranas. Here are some of them: 1. A grandson of Brahma who was known to be a fierce sage. He is believed to be a form of Vishnu. It was Kapila who cursed the sons of Sagara to be burnt to ashes. His curse led to Bhagirath […]

The word ‘Dharana’ finds many mentions in the Puranas. Some of them are: 1. Dharana is one of the eight raja yogas, a kind of meditation 2. Dharana was a king born in the family of Chandravatsa 3. A naga born in the family of Kashyapa was named Dharana 4. Dharana, also known as Karsapana, […]

The word Vamana has many references in the Puranic texts. Some of them are: 1. Vamana is the fifth incarnation in Vishnu’s Dashaavatar or ten incarnations. 2. Vamana is the name of one of the eight elephants that support the universe on their backs. 3. A holy place at the borders of Kurukshetra is called […]

Nandi, the bull, is Shiva's vahana and one of his most loyal devotees. Read the story of how Nandi earned his place at Shiva's side.

The word ‘Soma’ has many references in the Puranic texts, here are some of them – The juice extracted from the Soma creeper that is consumed by the Devas. The son of Atri and Anasuya, who is said to be an incarnation of Brahma. Another name for the Moon God, one of the eight Vasus.

Read all about the birth of Ayyappan, the child of Shiva and Vishnu, who was fated to slay the demoness Mahishi.

The Parijata tree was a celestial object that emerged during the churning of the ocean. Read the story of the fight between Krishna and Indra for its possession.