Vasuki

Vasuki is the king of the Nāgas (serpent beings) and a prominent figure in Hindu mythology. His origin is traced to the sage Kaśyapa and his wife Kadrū, as recorded in the Mahābhārata (Ādi Parva). Vasuki is most celebrated for his role as the churning rope in the Samudra Manthana (churning of the ocean of milk), a central episode described in the Bhāgavata Purāṇa (8.6–8.11) and the Mahābhārata (Ādi Parva). During this cosmic event, the devas and asuras used Vasuki as the rope wrapped around Mount Mandara to churn the ocean, producing the nectar of immortality and other treasures.

Despite his association with poison (halāhala) that emerged during the churning, Vasuki is revered as a protector and a bestower of blessings. In iconography, Vasuki is depicted as a giant serpent with multiple hoods, often adorned with jewels and a gem on his head, symbolizing his royal status. Some representations show him with a human torso and serpent lower body, akin to other Nāga kings. Vasuki resides in Pātāla, the netherworld, where he rules over the Nāgas and guards immense treasures.

According to the Skanda Purāṇa, he is also associated with the worship of Śiva, as serpents are sacred to the deity. Regional traditions, especially in South India, venerate Vasuki during Nāga Pañcamī, a festival dedicated to serpent worship, where offerings are made to ensure protection from snakebites and to seek fertility and prosperity. Temples dedicated to Nāga deities, such as the Mannarasala Temple in Kerala, often include Vasuki in their pantheon. In Hindu cosmology, Vasuki represents the cosmic serpent that supports the universe, akin to Śeṣa, though his role is distinct as a churning rope and a king of the netherworld.

His presence in rituals and mythology underscores the reverence for serpents as symbols of life, death, and regeneration.

Giant serpent with multiple hoods, often adorned with jewels. Sometimes depicted with a human torso and serpent lower body.