11 Rudra Avatars of Lord Shiva | Fusion - WeRIndia

Lord Shiva is a major deity in Hinduism and is often associated with his avatars or forms, including Rudra.

The name Rudra is derived from the Sanskrit word for roarer or howler. They exhibit the fiery nature of Lord Shiva. The Rudra avatar of Shiva is well-known in Hinduism.

It is said that Lord Shiva takes on this form to punish evil deeds and sinners. As Rudra, Lord Shiva is depicted as a powerful archer, a fire god, and a fearsome deity.

There are various legends surrounding the origin of Rudra. The first one is from the Shiva Purana. It tells of how Brahma asked Lord Shiva to create other beings.

Lord Shiva then created 11 forms of Rudra. Each form is associated with fighting demons and protecting the gods.

Another legend involves the god Indra. Indra was once defeated by demons and sought the help of the sage Maharshi Kashyap.

The sage meditated and wished for Lord Shiva to be born as his son. Lord Shiva granted him the boon. Thus 11 forms of Rudra were born.

Vishnu Purana says that Rudra emerged from the eyebrows of Lord Brahma. It happened due to the rage of Lord Brahma, the creator.

In the Bhagavad Gita, Rudra is used to refer to Lord Shiva. It is believed that Rudra is another form of Lord Shiva due to the qualities exhibited.

The 11 Rudra avatars include Manyu, Manu, Mahmasa, Mahan, Siva, Rtudhvaja, Ugraretas, Bhava, Kama, Vamadeva, and Dhrtavrata.

These avatars were formed from the male half of Rudra. The remaining half, i.e. the female half, gave rise to 11 Rudranis. These Rudranis became the wives of the Rudras.

Overall, the various legends and avatars associated with Rudra highlight the fiery nature and powerful presence of Lord Shiva in Hindu mythology.

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