Story of the Ashoka Tree

The Ashoka tree plays an important role in the Ramayana. It is the tree under which Sita spends her days after being abducted by Ravana. It is also the tree under which she meets Hanuman, bringing her news of Rama’s rescue. Here is an interesting legend behind the Ashoka tree. Sashoka was a feared cannibal. […]

Who were the first humans created by Brahma?

According to the Matsya Purana, Svayambhuva Manu and his wife, Shatarupa, are said to be the first humans created by Brahma. They were formed out of two sides of Brahma and are the ancestors of all human beings. They had five children. Sati and Dhruva were their grandchildren. Here is a look at their family […]

Panchajanya

  The word Panchajanya has many mentions in the Puranas. Here are some of them – 1. The conch of Krishna is called Panchajanya. 2. Panchajanya is a forest near Mount Raivataka, a mountain mentioned in the Mahabharata. 3. Panchajanya is a fire born from the parts of five sages. It is also called Tapa. […]

Swayamvara Stories

In ancient India, a swayamvara was a practice that allowed a young maiden to choose her husband from a group of eligible suitors. Here are some memorable swayamvara stories from mythology, which had far-reaching effects.

Ketuman

The word Ketuman has many references in the Puranas. Here are some of them: Ketuman is another name for a demon or Asura called Ketu, who was the son of Sage Kashyapa and his wife, Danu. Sudatta, the wife of Krishna, lived in a palace called Ketuman in Dwaraka. According to the Bhagvat Purana, Ketuman […]

Bheema

Bheema is one of the most important characters of the Mahabharata, the son of Kunti and Pandu through Vayu, he is also blessed with incredible physical strength. Here is a look at his ancestry and descendants. 

Lakshmi and Uchhaisravas

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.  

Kapila

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 […]