Thursday, January 8, 2015

Peacock Feather And Hinduism

Symbolism Of Peacock Feather In
Hinduism

Peacock is regarded as one of the most
auspicious bird in Hindu mythology. It's a
beautiful bird and has also earned the favour of
being the national bird of India. You may have
noticed that many people hand the peacock
feathers in their houses. It is believed that
keeping peacock feather at home brings good
luck and prosperity in the house.
It is actually a matter of great interest as to
how dramatically the species of peacock has
survived over the time span of 4000 years. It
has survived climatic changes, predatory
animals and human's destructive tendencies.
It still remains the oldest ornamental bird in the
world. Have you ever wondered what could be
the secret of its survival? You will be surprised
to know about the myths which surround the
survival of peacock.
Here are some stories from the Hindu
mythology which substantiates the symbolism
of peacock and its feathers in Hinduism.

ALSO SEE: THE HEALING POWERS OF
GAYATRI MANTRA

Origin
It is believed that Mayura or peacock was
created from one of the feathers of Garuda
(another mythical bird in Hind mythology,
carrier of Lord Vishnu). In images of the
peacock is depicted as a mythical bird, which
is killing a snake. According to a number of
Hindu scriptures, it is a symbol of cycle of
time.

The Beautiful Feathers
Long back, peacocks had dull tail feathers. In a
battle between Ravana and Lord Indra, the bird
opened its feathers for Indra to hide behind and
wage a war. Indra was saved and in gratitude,
he made its long feathers iridescent. That is
why Indra is often depicted as seated on a
peacock throne.

Peacock Feather & Goddess Lakshmi

Peacock is also identified with the Goddess of
wealth, Lakshmi. That is why people keep
peacock feathers at home because it is
believed to bring wealth and prosperity in the
house. It is also said to keep the house free
from flies and other insects.
Peacock Feather In Hinduism
Peacock feather is of great importance in
Hinduism. Lord Krishna wears a peacock
feather on His crown. Goddess Kaumari,
another form of Shakti also rides a peacock.
Lord Karthikeya or Murugan uses peacock as
His mode of conveyance. Hence, we see that
peacock and its feathers are extremely
significant in Hinduism.