Dashavatara: Know the Divine 10 Avatars of Vishnu​

The trimurti, Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, together maintain all activities that go on in this world. While Brahma creates, and Shiva destroys, Vishnu is the one who sustains and preserves this world.

His duty is to make sure that the world maintains its order. That people follow the path of dharma. And whenever the evil forces disturb this balance, he comes down to Earth to restore balance. Out of his many forms, ten forms are considered most important. In this blog, we will look at the 10 avatars of Vishnu​ and the story they tell.

What is an Avatar?

Whenever the world is in danger, and the evil forces start to take over, Lord Vishnu comes down from his heavenly home, Vaikuntha, to Earth. He takes different forms, sometimes as a human, an animal, or even a mix of both. Each avatar teaches a unique lesson and shows the path to its devotees.

Let’s take a look at what each of these forms signifies.

Matsya Avatar

It’s the first incarnation of Lord Vishnu, as a giant fish that saved humans from the destructive floods. Before the floods, he told Manu to build a boat, preserve the Vedas and the seven sages, and other life forms. Guiding everyone safely to Mount Meru.

Kurma Avatar

In this avatar, Lord Vishnu takes the form of a giant tortoise. To support the great churning of the ocean (Samudra manthan). Symbolising stability, selfless service, and strength. The gods and demons were using Mount Mandara as a churning stick. When it started to sink, Lord Vishnu took the avatar of Kurma. Supporting the mountain on his back, providing a stable foundation.

Varaha Avatar

When the demon Hiranyaksha forcefully dragged the Earth to the depths of the cosmic ocean, lord Vishnu appeared as a wild boar. Defeating the demon and lifting the Earth on his tusks. Making this avatar a symbol of strength and protection. This avatar was so huge that it made the sky and the underworld shake. And his roar was louder than the sounds of thunder.

Narasimha Avatar

This is the fourth avatar of the 10 avatars of Vishnu​. He took the form of a half-lion and a half-man to protect his devotee, Prahlada, and defeat the demon Hiranyakashipu. It’s a very fierce form that emerged from a pillar. Due to his special boons, Hiranyakashipu had become arrogant and started abusing his powers. Narasimha killed the demon in a way that followed all the rules of the boon, proving that no evil can escape justice.

Vaman Avatar

This avatar is special as it’s the first completely human form of Vishnu as a dwarf Brahmin. When the demon king Mahabali became greedy and wanted to take control of all three realms. To humble him, Vishnu took the Vamana avatar, asking for three steps of land. As soon as Mahabali agreed, the boy grew so large that with his two steps, he covered the entire universe. Bali realised his mistake, offering his head for the third step.

Parashurama Avatar

Parashurama is a fierce warrior who destroyed the Kshatriyas (warrior class). When the Kshatriyas became corrupt and started misusing their power, Parshurama destroyed them. Parashurama is also known for his bravery, discipline, and devotion towards his parents.

Rama Avatar

Rama is known as the ideal man and a symbol of truth. He followed the path of dharma, kept his promises, and respected his elders. Even when he fought the battle with Ravana, he didn’t let go of his moral principles. Inspiring people to choose the right path, no matter how hard it gets.

Krishna Avatar

Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu, is the most loved and celebrated form. We get to know Krishna through his stories from childhood to his teachings to Arjuna at the battlefield. His teachings, as in the Bhagavat Gita, guide many devotees across the world.

Buddha Avatar

Even though there are some doubts, Buddha is considered to be the ninth avatar of Lord Vishnu. He is a wise teacher who showed people the path of kindness, non-violence, and peace. Teaching people how to avoid suffering and live with true happiness.

Kalki Avatar

It is believed that the Kalki avatar is yet to appear at the end of the Kali Yuga. When evil intentions dominate the world, Kalki will appear riding a white horse with a shining sword. Marking the end of Kali Yuga, the age of darkness.

In different timelines, the 10 avatars of Vishnu​ have protected the world. Showing that the truth will always win over the evil forces. And inspiring people to lead their lives with compassion, humility, and strength.

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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1. How many avatars does lord Vishnu have?

There are 10 avatars of Vishnu​, and behind every avatar, there is a story of fighting evil. And realising the true strength that is within you.

Q2. Why does lord Vishnu take avatars?

Vishnu took avatars to kill demons and achieve specific goals. To free this world from suffering and chaos.

Q3. Is Buddha really an avatar of lord Vishnu?

Yes, Buddha is a form of Vishnu. When dharma was being corrupted by rituals, Buddha came to popularise the teachings of compassion and non-violence.

Q4. When will the Kalki avatar appear?

Kalki avatar will appear at the end of Kali Yuga, which is still about 426,874 years away from 2025

Q5. Which avatars of Vishnu have a human form?

Out of the 10 avatars of Vishnu​, the human avatars of Vishnu are Vamana, Parashurama, Rama, Krishna, Buddha, and the future avatar Kalki.