Kurma Avatar: The Divine Turtle Incarnation of Lord Vishnu | Lord Vishnu | Dashavataram Part - 2

Kurma Avatar: The Divine Turtle Incarnation of Lord Vishnu | Lord Vishnu | Dashavataram Part - 2.
The Kurma Avatar, symbolizing "turtle," stands as the second incarnation of Lord Vishnu in Hindu mythology, embodying principles of stability, balance, and perseverance. Its divine purpose lies in providing a steadfast foundation during the cosmic ocean's churning, known as Samudra Manthan, facilitating the retrieval of the elixir of immortality, Amrita.
According to Hindu scriptures, the saga 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 Mandaraachala 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.
This churning produced 13 other ratans along with the amrita kalash. we will discuss the 14 ratnas of Samudra Manthan.
1. Halahala (Deadly Poison) - During the churning of the ocean, the first thing that came out of the water was poison that threatened to engulf creation. The flame of this turmoil was very intense. Due to the intensity of the flame of this poison, all the gods and goddesses started burning. Then everyone together prayed to Lord Shiva to bear the poison, In response, Lord Shiva consumed the poison to protect the universe from its destructive effects. His wife, the goddess Parvati, was alarmed, as she gripped her husband's neck with both hands in order to stop the poison from reaching his stomach, thus earning him the epithet Viṣhakaṇṭha (the one who held poison in his throat).
2. Kaustubha Mani: A divine jewel that adorned the chest of Lord Vishnu after emerging from the ocean.
3. Kamadhenu: The celestial cow, also known as Surabhi, emerged from the ocean. It is believed to fulfill all desires and is considered the mother of all cows.
4. Kalpavriksha: The wish-fulfilling divine tree that emerged from the ocean, capable of granting any desire.
5. Airavata: The white elephant with multiple trunks emerged, serving as the mount of Lord Indra, the king of Devas.
6. Uchhaishravas: The divine seven-headed horse, which emerged as a symbol of power and speed.
7. Varuni: The goddess of wine, who emerged holding a pot of divine wine. The demons took Varuni.
8. Dhanvantari: Lord Dhanvantari is a part of Vishnu and the father of Ayurveda. After his incarnation, he created Ayurveda for public welfare and gave its knowledge to sages and physicians.
9. Lakshmi: The goddess of wealth and prosperity, emerged from the ocean during the churning.
10. Sharanga: The divine bow of Lord Vishnu, also emerged from the ocean.
11. Angels Apsara and Rambha: During the churning of the ocean, Indra obtained Rambha from the gods for his royal court. Disturbed by Vishwamitra’s severe penance, Indra sent Rambha to break Vishwamitra’s penance. Apsara is a resident of Gandharvaloka. Some people call them angels.
12. Parijat: Apart from the Kalpavriksha and the Parijat tree also originated during the churning of the ocean. Parijat flowers are very beautiful. The flowers of this tree have special significance in the worship of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. Many diseases use its leaves and stems for treatment. Parijat or Harsingar is one of the major trees whose flowers hold an important place in the worship of God. Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, loves Parijat flowers.
13. Panchajanya : The conch shell or Shankha originated as a gem during the churning of the ocean. Conch shell is one of the 14 gems. It is a symbol of victory, prosperity, happiness, peace, fame, fame and Lakshmi. Most importantly, the conch is a symbol of sound. This conch was dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Hence, the conch is compulsorily blown during Lakshmi and Vishnu puja.
14. At the end of the churning of the ocean, a pot of nectar emerged. Dhanvantari Dev had the nectar pot in his hand. When there was a fight between the gods and demons regarding the distribution of nectar and Lord Vishnu took the form of Mohini distracted demons and distributed the nectar among the gods. Cunningly Rahu drank the nectar by deceit, enraged Lord Vishnu cut off his head with his Chakra. As the consumed Amrita, Demon was immortal. The two parts of the body of this demon later became Rahu and Ketu.

In the timeless wisdom of the Kurma Avatar, we find lessons of stability, perseverance, unity, and the sacred duty to protect and preserve all of creation.