Vishnu

The Preserver of the Universe

Vishnu is the second god of the Trimurti, the supreme preserver who maintains cosmic order (dharma). He reclines on the thousand-headed serpent Shesha in the cosmic ocean of milk, dreaming the universe into existence.

The Ten Avatars (Dashavatara)

Whenever evil threatens to overwhelm good, Vishnu descends to Earth in an avatar. His ten principal incarnations include Matsya (fish), Kurma (tortoise), Varaha (boar), Narasimha (man-lion), Vamana (dwarf), Parashurama, Rama, Krishna, Buddha, and Kalki (the future avatar).

Divine Attributes

Vishnu holds four items: the Sudarshana Chakra (discus of cosmic order), Panchajanya (conch of creation), Kaumodaki (mace of mental and physical strength), and a lotus (purity and creation). His mount is the eagle Garuda.

Festivals and Worship

Vaishnavism, centered on Vishnu worship, is one of Hinduism's largest denominations. Major festivals include Vaikuntha Ekadashi and Rama Navami. The mantra "Om Namo Narayanaya" is chanted by devotees worldwide.