Bhudevi

Bhudevi, also known as Prithvi, is the goddess of the earth in Hindu tradition. She is revered as a form of Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, and is the second consort of Vishnu, with Lakshmi being the primary. Her name derives from the Sanskrit 'bhū' meaning 'earth' or 'soil'. In the Rigveda (5.84), Prithvi is praised as the mother who sustains all beings, and the Atharvaveda contains the Bhū Sūkta, a hymn that extols her as the foundation of life. According to the Bhagavata Purana (Canto 3, Chapters 13-19), Bhudevi was submerged in the cosmic waters by the demon Hiranyaksha. Vishnu incarnated as the boar Varaha, dove into the ocean, lifted her on his tusks, and restored her to her place in the universe.

This myth symbolizes the rescue of the earth from chaos and the restoration of dharma. Iconographically, Bhudevi is depicted with a dark or green complexion, representing the fertile soil. She is often shown seated on a lotus or a cow, holding a lotus, a water vessel, and fruits, embodying abundance and nourishment. Her expression is motherly and patient, reflecting the earth's enduring nature. In many depictions, she is seated on the lap or arm of Varaha, indicating her close association with Vishnu's boar avatar. Bhudevi is also associated with the cow, a symbol of non-violence and sustenance.

In Hindu cosmology, she is considered the material principle (Prakriti) that supports all life. Regional worship traditions include Bhumi Puja, a ritual performed before construction to seek her permission, and Varaha Jayanti, celebrating the Varaha avatar. The festival Vat Savitri honors the earth goddess along with Savitri. Bhudevi's role extends to being a witness to oaths and a source of stability. Her mantras, such as 'Om Bhūmyai Namaḥ' and the Bhū Sūkta, are chanted for grounding and prosperity. As the earth goddess, she embodies patience, fertility, and nurturing, reminding devotees of the sacredness of the natural world.

Dark or green complexion. Seated on a lotus or cow. Often depicted with Vishnu as Varaha, seated on his lap or arm. Holds lotus, water vessel, and fruits. Motherly, patient expression.