Jai Shri Krishna Dear readers, how are you, I hope you are well and happy. In today's post we will know about Which birds are mentioned as being able to fly in the Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabharata
Which birds are mentioned as being able to fly in the Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabharata
In the Hindu epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, several birds are mentioned, each with its unique characteristics and significance. These birds are not just ordinary creatures; they often play important roles in the stories, symbolizing messages, guidance, or even divine intervention. Here’s a simple explanation of some of the well-known birds that are able to fly and their importance in these epics:
1. Jatayu (Ramayana)
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| Which birds are mentioned as being able to fly in the Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabharata |
Jatayu is a prominent bird in the Ramayana. He is a vulture (Giddh) and a devoted friend of King Dasharatha, Lord Rama’s father. When Ravana abducts Sita, Jatayu sees the incident and tries to stop Ravana. Despite his old age, Jatayu bravely fights Ravana to rescue Sita. Although he is defeated and injured, Jatayu’s efforts show his loyalty and courage. His role is crucial because he informs Rama and Lakshmana about Sita's abduction, guiding them in their quest.
2. Sampati (Ramayana)
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| Which birds are mentioned as being able to fly in the Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabharata |
Sampati is another bird in the Ramayana and the elder brother of Jatayu. Like Jatayu, Sampati is also a vulture. After Jatayu’s death, when Hanuman and the Vanara (monkey) army search for Sita, they meet Sampati. Though injured and unable to fly, Sampati shares valuable information about Sita’s location in Lanka. His knowledge helps Hanuman and the army find their way, making him an essential part of the story.
3. Garuda (Ramayana and Mahabharata)
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| Which birds are mentioned as being able to fly in the Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabharata |
Garuda is a divine bird, known as the king of birds. He is the vehicle (Vahana) of Lord Vishnu and is often described as a giant bird with the body of a human and the wings and beak of an eagle. In both the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, Garuda symbolizes strength, speed, and power. In the Mahabharata, Garuda is also known for his bravery and loyalty, especially when he carries out tasks assigned by the gods.
4. Kakasura (Ramayana)
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| Which birds are mentioned as being able to fly in the Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabharata |
Kakasura, or Jayanta, is another bird that appears in the Ramayana. He is a crow and the son of Lord Indra. At one point, he tries to disturb Sita while she rests in the forest. Lord Rama punishes him by using a divine weapon called the Brahmastra, which chases the crow wherever it flies. Kakasura eventually surrenders and seeks forgiveness. This incident shows Lord Rama’s justice and mercy, as he forgives the crow after it sincerely apologizes.
5. The Swan (Hamsa) (Mahabharata)
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| Which birds are mentioned as being able to fly in the Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabharata |
In the Mahabharata, there is a mention of a swan (Hamsa) in the story of Nala and Damayanti. A golden swan plays the role of a messenger, carrying Nala's feelings to Damayanti and vice versa. This bird represents purity, love, and the ability to connect people. It highlights how birds are sometimes used as messengers in Hindu epics, bridging distances between people.
Conclusion
The birds in the Ramayana and the Mahabharata are more than just animals; they are important characters that convey values such as bravery, loyalty, and wisdom. Whether it is Jatayu’s heroic fight, Sampati’s guidance, or Garuda’s divine presence, these birds add depth to the stories and teach lessons that remain relevant even today.
So dear readers, how did you like the story? Hope you liked it. With this, let's take leave. We will meet again in devotional story the next post. Till then take care of yourself, keep laughing, keep smiling and keep sharing happiness with others too.
Thank you ,Jay Shri Krishna
