Prahlada

Prahlada is a figure in Hindu mythology, best known as the son of the demon king Hiranyakashipu and a devoted follower of Vishnu. He appears in various Puranic accounts, notably the Bhagavata Purana and the Vishnu Purana, where his steadfast devotion to Vishnu is presented as a model of Bhakti.

From childhood, Prahlada is described as worshiping Vishnu despite his father’s vehement opposition. Hiranyakashipu, angered by his son’s disobedience and his refusal to worship him, subjects Prahlada to a series of punishments intended to force him to renounce Vishnu. Prahlada reportedly remains unwavering, reportedly teaching others to chant Vishnu’s names even under threat.

The conflict culminates in an encounter in which Hiranyakashipu tries to kill Prahlada. Vishnu intervenes in his Narasimha avatar—a figure that is part man, part lion—appearing at twilight at the threshold of the king’s palace. He slays Hiranyakashipu, thereby circumventing the conditions of the boon that made the king feel secure. Holika, Hiranyakashipu’s sister, is burned to death in a separate episode associated with the festival of Holika Dahan, while Prahlada survives thanks to his steadfast devotion.

Prahlada’s story is commonly interpreted as an illustration of the supremacy of devotion over power and fear, and it has influenced Hindu theology, ritual practice, and art. The narrative is widely cited in Vaishnavism as an example of childlike faith and perseverance in the face of oppression.