Prahladas

Prahlada is a prominent figure in Hindu mythology, primarily known for his unwavering devotion to Vishnu. He is a central character in the Vishnu Purana and the Bhagavata Purana. Prahlad was the son of Hiranyakashipu, a powerful demon king who had received a boon that made him nearly invincible. Hiranyakashipu demanded that all beings worship him, but Prahlad refused, insisting that Vishnu was the supreme deity.

Hiranyakashipu, enraged by his son's defiance, subjected Prahlad to numerous tortures. These included being thrown from a mountaintop, being trampled by elephants, and being placed in a room with venomous snakes. However, Prahlad was miraculously protected by Vishnu's grace in each instance, his faith remaining unshaken.

The climax of Prahlad's story comes when Hiranyakashipu, frustrated by his inability to harm his son, demands to know where Vishnu is. Prahlad declares that Vishnu is everywhere. Hiranyakashipu then strikes a pillar, asking if Vishnu is in it. Vishnu emerges from the pillar in his Narasimha avatar, a form that is half-man and half-lion, and kills Hiranyakashipu, thus fulfilling his boon and saving Prahlad.

Prahlad is revered as a paragon of devotion (bhakti) and righteousness (dharma). His story emphasizes the power of faith in the face of adversity and the ultimate triumph of good over evil through divine intervention. He is often invoked in stories about the importance of unwavering faith and spiritual conviction.