Vinata

Vinata is a figure in Hindu mythology, primarily known as the wife of the sage Kashyapa and the mother of Aruna and Garuda. Aruna is the personification of the dawn and the charioteer of Surya, while Garuda is a colossal eagle who becomes Vishnu’s mount. In many accounts Vinata and Kadru are described as co-wives of Kashyapa, with Kadru commonly identified as the mother of all serpents (the Nagas). Depending on the tradition, Kadru and Vinata are presented as sisters or simply rival wives.

A well-known legend surrounding Vinata concerns a contest between her and Kadru that affected their offspring. The outcome of this rivalry is tied to the fates of Vinata’s children and the broader interactions between the Nagas, Garuda, and the gods. Garuda’s later exploits are a central element of this myth, and the tale is often cited to illustrate the dynamics between divine beings, mortals, and celestial creatures, as well as themes of endurance and devotion.

Vinata’s narrative appears in various Puranas and is referenced in other Hindu scriptures. In these sources, she is sometimes depicted as an emblem of maternal perseverance within a web of relationships among deities, sages, and celestial beings. In modern times, Vinata is also used as a feminine given name in India.