Mayura
Mayura (a Sanskrit word for peacock) is a sacred bird of the Hindu mythology.
Origin
The legend states that the Mayura was created from the feathers of Garuda, another semi-divine mythical bird of Hindu mythology.
Beliefs
Garuda is believed to be a vahana (conveyance) of Vishnu, one of the Trimurti. In images of the mayura as a mythical bird, it is depicted as killing a snake, which according to a number of Hindu scriptures, is a symbol of cycle of time.
Role
Mayura is associated with a number of gods and deities of the Hindus including the following:
- Goddess Kaumari is generally depicted with a mayura and mayura also serves as her conveyance.
- A mayura also serves as a conveyance of the god Kartikeya.
- Krishna is generally depicted with peacock feathers adorning his head.
In general, feathers of mayura are considered sacred and are used to dust the religious images and implements of Hindus.
References
- Dictionary of Hindu Lore and Legend (ISBN 0-500-51088-1) by Anna Dallapiccola
Origin - Asia - East Asia - Hindu Mythology -
Tags - Fabulous Beasts - Animals - Legendary Birds -