Kurma Avatar

The Kurma Avatar is the second of Lord Vishnu’s ten most famous incarnations, which came into being during the Satya yuga.

It came into existence as half tortoise and half human. It is depicted in the water, holding up the mount Mandara, which was chosen as the churning rod during the manthan, upon which Lord Vishnu is seated himself. The Kurma Avatar represents stability, balance, and perseverance. Its purpose was to provide a solid foundation during the churning of the cosmic ocean.

According to Hindu scriptures, the story of Kurma Avatar begins with the churning of the cosmic ocean, known as Samudra Manthan, by the Devas (celestial beings) and Asuras (demons). The churning was done using Mount Mandara as the churning rod and the serpent Vasuki as the rope. However, as the Devas and Asuras began the arduous task, the mountain started to sink into the depths of the ocean.

Realizing the need for stability, Lord Vishnu transformed into Kurma Avatar and manifested as a colossal turtle. Kurma’s sturdy back became the foundation on which the mountain rested, ensuring it did not sink. The divine turtle’s presence brought stability and equilibrium to the churning process.

Watercolor on cotton paper 15x15 in.

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