Category: Hindu Mythology

Hindu mythology refers to the collection of ancient narratives, tales, traditions, and legends related to Hinduism. These stories primarily revolve around gods, goddesses, heroes, sages, and cosmic events.

Below are some of the most asked questions in Hindu mythology:

Who are the primary deities in Hinduism?

Hinduism has a vast pantheon, but the primary deities are Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver), and Shiva (the destroyer). Together, they form the “Trimurti” or trinity.

What are the major texts of Hindu mythology?

The Vedas, Upanishads, Ramayana, Mahabharata, and the Puranas are some of the primary texts that contain mythological stories.

What is the significance of the ‘Mahabharata’?

The Mahabharata is one of the world’s longest epics, narrating the Kurukshetra war between the Pandavas and Kauravas. It also contains the Bhagavad Gita, a spiritual and philosophical dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna.

Who is Lord Krishna?

Lord Krishna is an avatar (incarnation) of the god Vishnu and a central figure in Hindu mythology. His life, adventures, and teachings, especially those in the Bhagavad Gita, hold immense significance in Hinduism.

What is the concept of ‘avatar’?

An avatar, in Hinduism, refers to the descent of a deity to Earth, often to restore cosmic balance. Lord Vishnu is especially known for having ten avatars or ‘Dashavatar’, which includes beings like Rama, Krishna, and Buddha.

Who is Goddess Durga and why is she significant?

Goddess Durga represents power, strength, and protection. She is often depicted as a warrior goddess riding a lion and is revered for vanquishing the buffalo demon, Mahishasura.

Why are rivers, especially the Ganges, considered sacred?

Rivers are seen as life-sustaining entities in Hindu mythology. The Ganges, in particular, is believed to have descended from heaven and possesses purifying properties. Bathing in it is believed to cleanse one’s sins.

What is the story behind the festival of Diwali?

Diwali, the festival of lights, primarily celebrates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana and completing his 14-year exile. People lit lamps to guide Rama home, which is symbolically represented by lighting lamps and fireworks during Diwali.

What does the ‘Swastika’ symbol mean in Hinduism?

The Swastika is an ancient symbol in Hinduism representing prosperity, good luck, and well-being. It is often used during religious and cultural ceremonies.

What is the ‘churning of the ocean’ or ‘Samudra Manthan’?

‘Samudra Manthan’ is a pivotal event in Hindu mythology where gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) churned the cosmic ocean to obtain the nectar of immortality (Amrita). This event produced various treasures, as well as the poison ‘Halahala’ which Lord Shiva consumed to save the universe.

Who are the ‘Asuras’ and ‘Devas’?

In Hindu mythology, Devas are celestial beings or gods, often associated with positive qualities and cosmic duties. Asuras, on the other hand, are often adversaries of the Devas, though not always evil. The two often engage in battles for supremacy.