Widely known as the Preserver in Hinduism, Lord Vishnu is believed to prevent cosmic chaos and ensure world harmony. He is responsible for the perpetuation of life and sustenance of all living beings. He also epitomises morality, virtuosity, and benevolence. Most interestingly, the god is believed to have walked the earth in 10 avatars or incarnations. As per Hindu mythology, the 10 avatars of Vishnu symbolise the divine power that rights all wrongs, protects devotees, conquers evils, and restores balance. Important principles, messages, and lessons are embedded in the concept of each avatar to enlighten followers and strengthen faith. Let’s learn more about them.
1. Matsya Avatar
To save all life forms from a devastating flood, Lord Vishnu took the shape of a gigantic golden fish or matsya. When the flood threatened to submerge the entire world, he advised Manu, the devout sage, to build a large boat for navigating the wild waters.
2. Kurma Avatar
Lord Vishnu assumed the form of a massive tortoise to help demons and gods churn the celestial ocean and obtain amrit or the nectar of immortality. In this incarnation, the god supported the churning rod (Mandara Mountain) on his large back, while Vasuki, the giant snake, acted as the rope.
3. Varaha Avatar
This is one of the 10 avatars of Vishnu where he took the shape of a powerful boar and rescued Mother Earth from Hiranyaksha, a demon. The latter had submerged the world in the cosmic ocean. After learning about it, Lord Vishnu battled the demon, vanquished him, and used his own tusks to lift the earth from the ocean’s depths.
4. Narasimha Avatar
This ferocious incarnation depicts Lord Vishnu as half-man and half-lion. He assumed this form to defeat Hiranyakashipu, the ruthless demon king who had observed severe penance to appease Lord Brahma. The latter had then bestowed the boon of invulnerability on the demon, whereby no man, god, or beast would be able to kill him. However, Prahlad, Hiranyakashipu’s son, was a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu. Angered, the father attempted to kill Prahlad many times, but failed. Ultimately, when the frustrated demon king cracked open a pillar with his mace, Narasimha avatar emerged and killed him. You can buy a Lakshmi Narasimha idol for your home and usher in peace, divine protection, and prosperity.
5. Vamana Avatar
Lord Vishnu approached Bali, the righteous demon king, in the form of a dwarf Brahmin. While Bali was known for his good deeds, the king’s pride had grown over the years. To teach him the lesson of humility, Vamana requested land that would accommodate his three feet. When Bali agreed, Vamana grew to mammoth proportions, using one foot to cover the sky and another to cover the earth. When he had no space to rest his third foot, Bali offered him his own head. Though the king was buried into the netherworld, he was allowed to visit his people every year.
6. Parashurama Avatar
In this incarnation, Lord Vishnu took the form of a warrior-sage who could yield Parashu, the mighty axe. The son of Renuka and Saptarishi, Parashurama was devoted to Lord Shiva and played integral roles in Mahabharata and Ramayana.
7. Rama Avatar
One of the most popular among the 10 avatars of Vishnu, Lord Rama was a noble prince and vanquished Ravana, the demon king, to save his wife Sita from the latter’s clutches. He epitomised strength, conviction, virtue, and truth.
8. Krishna Avatar
The eighth and playful avatar of Lord Vishnu, Krishna played a key role in helping Dharma win over Adharma in Mahabharata. The life lessons he imparted to Arjuna, the great warrior and Pandava prince, have been treasured in Bhagavad Gita. You can bring home a beautiful Krishna idol to embrace good health, love, happiness, good fortune, and spiritual bliss. You can choose from silver or gold coated idols as well as blue ones featuring metallic embellishments.
9. Balarama / Buddha Avatar
In some parts of India, Balarama, Krishna’s elder brother, is believed to be the ninth avatar. He helped Lord Krishna defeat various demons since childhood. In other parts of India, Lord Buddha is deemed to be the ninth avatar, symbolising non-violence, compassion, and enlightenment.
10. Kalki Avatar
This world is yet to witness the appearance of this avatar. It is believed that Kalki Avatar will make an entrance when the present age of evil and darkness or Kali Yuga comes to an end. Anarchy and injustice will be eliminated, and the world will experience a new era of peace. According to devotees, Kalki Avatar will carry a glistening sword and ride a white horse.
Pray to Lord Vishnu and his avatars for a bountiful life
To keep pain and suffering at bay, you can offer your prayers to Lord Vishnu and his unique incarnations every day. It will fill your abode with positivity, serenity, and overall wellness. Apart from improving your relationship with loved ones, worshipping the avatars of Lord Vishnu can wash away all past sins, eliminate challenges, improve your wisdom, and bring in prosperity.
