Mayura (mythology)

For other uses, see Mayura (disambiguation).

Mayura (a Sanskrit word for peacock) is one of the sacred birds of the Hindu mythology. It is referred to in a number of Hindu scriptures. It is also a contemporary Hindu name used in many parts of India.

Mythology

The legend states that the Mayura was created from the feathers of Garuda, another semi-divine mythical birds of Hindu mythology. 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.

Significance

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

• Anna Dallapiccola, Dictionary of Hindu Lore and Legend (ISBN 0-500-51088-1)

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