Narad

Narad, also spelled Narada, is a rishi (sage) in Hinduism, renowned as a traveling minstrel and divine messenger. In various scriptures he is described as a mind-born son of Brahma and as a devoted follower of Vishnu, often acting to spread devotion (bhakti) across the worlds. The name is generally interpreted as "the bearer of news" or "the wanderer."

Narad is known for his itinerant journeys across heaven, earth, and the netherworld, carrying stories, chants, and warnings. He appears in many Hindu texts, including the Puranas, the Mahabharata, and the Ramayana, where he dispenses wisdom, tests heroes, and sometimes stirs events to teach humility or devotion. He is most closely associated with Vaishnavism, and is often depicted playing a veena, accompanied by a prayer bead, and moving on a cloud or sky.

Literary and doctrinal role: He is the reputed author of the Narada Bhakti Sutra, a short text on bhakti yoga that venerates devotion to Vishnu. He plays a pivotal role as a divine informer, conveying the gods’ will to sages and human heroes. In iconography, he is typically shown with a veena, wearing simple robes, sometimes with a garland.

Legacy: Narad remains a popular figure in Hindu folklore and devotional literature, symbolizing the power of devotion and the idea that spiritual insight can come through music and storytelling. He is also referenced in many regional traditions and modern retellings.