Animals of Indian Mythology

First Online: August 10, 2002
Page Last Updated: August 20, 2024

  • Animals and Ancient Indians -- Ancient Indians gave a great importance to nature, life and environment. They made deities out of animals and worshiped them. Kamat on animals of Indian mythology.

  • Extreme Vehicles -- Most Hindu Gods have their own vehicles that they use to go about their tasks and responsibilities. We bring you this fascinating exhibition of pictures from Indian mythologies.

The following is a list and discussion of various animals found in stories of Indian classics and mythologies.

 

Birds
  • Cock
  • Crow
  • Goose
  • Hawk
  • Owl
  • Peacock
  • Swan
Insects
  • Bee -- Kama's Bee Arrow
  • Butterfly
  • Crane
  • Dove
  • Falcon
  • Spider
Mammals
  • Bats
  • Bear
  • Boar - Varaha, Vajravahi's vehicle?
  • Buffalo - Durga, Yama
  • Bull - Nandi, Shiva < Agni's vehicle,
  • Cat
  • Cow
  • Dog
  • Deer - Vayu's vehicle, Maricha
  • Elephant
  • Fox
  • Goat
  • Horse
  • Leopard (Shiva's skin)
  • Lion (Nara Simha)
  • Monkey
  • Rat
  • Tiger
  • Rabbit
Reptiles
  • Crocodile
  • Lizard
  • Snake
  • Squirrel
  • Turtle
Fantastic Animals
  • Eagle - Ganda berunda

 

Kamat's Potpourri The Timeless Theater Indian Mythologies List of Animals found in Indian Mythologies