patal

Patal, or Patala, is a term from Hindu and Buddhist cosmology referring to the underworld, a realm situated beneath the earth. The word is Sanskrit in origin and is often translated as “beneath the earth” or “underworld.”

In many Purāṇic and mythological accounts, Patala is part of a layered cosmic geography. It is described as a collection of seven subterranean regions or lokas, traditionally named Atala, Vitala, Sutala, Talatala, Mahatala, Rasatala, and Patala. Each region is portrayed with its own ruler, ambiance, and inhabitants, ranging from gleaming palaces to perilous landscapes. Access to Patala is depicted as possible through underground pathways or by supernatural means. The realm is commonly associated with beings such as nagas (serpent beings) and certain classes of asuras, though depictions vary among sources.

Patala serves as a setting for a variety of mythic episodes that illustrate interactions between gods, demons, and heroes, and it is sometimes used symbolically to denote hidden knowledge, wealth, or temptation.

In modern times, Patala appears in literature, art, and popular culture as a mythic toponym. It is used in titles and names, including the Indian crime series Patal Lok (Patala Lok) on streaming platforms, which draws on the cultural resonance of the term.