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{{short description|A race descending from Dakṣa}}
{{short description|Race in Hindu mythology}}
{{about|Hindu mythology|the American heavy metal band|Danava (band)}}
{{Infobox deity
{{Infobox deity
| type         = [[Asura]]
| type = Hindu
| name         = Danavas
| name = Danavas
| member_of   =  
| member_of =  
| image       = Matsya slaying a demon Wellcome V0050546.jpg
| image = Matsya slaying a demon Wellcome V0050546.jpg
| alt         = <!--Matasya avatar slaying a Danava [[WP:ALT]] -->
| alt = <!--Matasya avatar slaying a Danava [[BP:ALT]] -->
| caption     =  
| caption = [[Matsya]] slays a danava called Hayagriva
| other_names =  
| other_names =  
| hiro         =  
| hiro =  
| Old_Norse   =  
| Old_Norse =  
| script_name = [[Devanagari]]  
| script_name = [[Devanagari]]
| script       = दानव
| script = दानव
| affiliation = <!-- or | associate = -->
| affiliation = <!-- or | associate = -->
| cult_center  = <!-- or | cult_centre = -->
| abode = <!-- or | abodes = -->
| abode       = <!-- or | abodes = -->
| planet = <!-- or | world = -->
| planet       = <!-- or | world = -->
| mantra =  
| mantra       =  
| mantra benefits =  
| mantra benefits =
| weapon = <!-- or | weapons = -->
| weapon       = <!-- or | weapons = -->
| battles =  
| battles     =  
| artifacts = <!-- or | artefacts = -->
| artifacts   = <!-- or | artefacts = -->
| animals =  
| animals     =  
| symbol = <!-- or | symbols = -->
| symbol       = <!-- or | symbols = -->
| adherents =  
| adherents   =
| height =  
| height       =  
| age =  
| age         =  
| tree =  
| tree         =
| day =  
| day         =  
| color = <!-- or | colour = -->
| color       = <!-- or | colour = -->
| number =  
| number       =  
| consort = <!-- or | consorts = -->
| consort     = <!-- or | consorts = -->
| parents = [[Danu (Asura)|Danu]] and [[Kashyapa]]
| parents     = [[Danu (Asura)|Danu]] and [[Kashyapa]]
| siblings =  
| siblings     =  
| offspring = <!-- or | children = -->
| offspring   = <!-- or | children = -->
| predecessor =  
| predecessor =
| army =  
| successor    =
| mount =  
| army         =
| texts = [[Mahabharata]], [[Rig Veda]], [[Natyashastra]]
| mount       =  
| gender =  
| texts       = [[Mahabharata]], [[Rig Veda]], [[Natyashastra]]
| Greek_equivalent =  
| gender       =
| Roman_equivalent =  
| Greek_equivalent           =  
| Etruscan_equivalent =  
| Roman_equivalent           =  
| Christian_equivalent =  
| Etruscan_equivalent         =  
| Islamic_equivalent =  
| Christian_equivalent       =  
| Slavic_equivalent =  
| Islamic_equivalent         =  
| Hinduism_equivalent =  
| Slavic_equivalent           =  
| Canaanite_equivalent =  
| Hinduism_equivalent         =  
| Canaanite_equivalent       =
| equivalent1_type =  
| equivalent1_type =  
| equivalent1 =
| equivalent1 =  
| equivalent2_type =  
| equivalent2_type =  
| equivalent2 =
| equivalent2 =  
| region       = [[South Asia]]
| region =  
| ethnic_group =  
| ethnic_group =  
| festivals   =  
| festivals =  
| nirvana     =
| nirvana =  
}}
}}
{{Hinduism}}
{{Hinduism}}


{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2019}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2019}}
In [[Hinduism|Hindu mythology]], the '''Dānavas''' were a race descending from [[Daksha|Dakṣa]].


They were the sons of [[Danu (Asura)|Danu]], the daughter of [[Daksha|Dakṣa]]. Danu is connected with the waters of the heavens and is likely associated with the formless, [[Cosmic ocean|primordial waters]] that existed prior to creation.
In [[Hinduism|Hindu mythology]], the '''danavas''' are a race descending from [[Kashyapa]] and his wife [[Danu (Asura)|Danu]], a daughter of the progenitor god, [[Daksha]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=www.wisdomlib.org |date=2009-04-11 |title=Danava, Dānava, Dānavā: 22 definitions |url=https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/danava |access-date=2022-08-04 |website=www.wisdomlib.org |language=en}}</ref> It is mentioned that there are one hundred danavas.<ref>{{Cite web |last=www.wisdomlib.org |date=2019-01-28 |title=Story of Danu |url=https://www.wisdomlib.org/hinduism/compilation/puranic-encyclopaedia/d/doc241520.html |access-date=2022-08-04 |website=www.wisdomlib.org |language=en}}</ref>
 
Under the leadership of [[Mahabali|Bali]]<ref name ="Rose">[https://www.google.com/books?vid=ISBN0393322114&id=GKrACS_n86wC&pg=RA1-PA94&lpg=RA1-PA94&ots=-HEO236tjm&dq=Danavas Rose, Carol (2000) ''Giants, Monsters, and Dragons: An Encyclopedia of Folklore, Legend, and Myth'' ABC-CLIO, Santa Barbara, CA, p. 94] {{ISBN|0-87436-988-6}};</ref> and others, the Dānavas revolted against the [[Deva (Hinduism)|Devas]].<ref name="Monro">{{Cite book|author=Monro, W. D. |year=1911 |title=Stories of Indian Gods & Heroes | publisher=Harrap (Unwin)|location=London |page=?|url=http://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015083385156}}</ref> Despite initial successes, the Dānavas were defeated by the god [[Vamana|Vāmana]] (fifth incarnation of [[Vishnu|Lord Vishnu]]) who came in front of Bali for three steps of land. Bali, a justful and always generous king, said yes to his wish. But, after King Bali's yes, [[Vamana]] took enormous form, so big that the entire earth was his first step, the second step covered entire heaven and hell. Now there was no place to put the third step. King Bali knew that the Vamana is none other than Lord Vishnu. King Bali, being an ardent devotee of Vishnu,  showed his head for his third step. Vamana being pleased by his devotion, gave him a boon before placing in [[Patala|Pathala]], that once in a year, he will be allowed to see his subjects. This day is celebrated as [[Onam]], also the harvest festival of [[Kerala]], as King Bali was the king of Kerala.
 
It is said that there are 100 Danava sons of Danu. The Dānavas were not considered to be universally evil and individual Dānava may be aligned with [[Dharma|good]] or [[Adharma|evil]]. There was [[Mayasura]], the architect of the demons, who was a righteous man & a devotee of Shiva. Other Danavas, like Namuchi, Ilvala, Vatapi were crafty & evil beings, subdued by [[Indra]] & [[Agastya]]. [[Vrishaparva]] & Puloma fathered Sharmistha (Yayati's wife) & [[Shachi]] (Indra's wife)


== Origin ==
== Origin ==
 
The danavas are a mythological race of [[asura]]s, the half-brothers to the [[Deva (Hinduism)|devas]] and daityas that are found in a range of Hindu texts. The danavas are a part of a larger group of the asuras, and are typically portrayed as opposed to the Hindu deities. However, historically, their role in Hinduism is varied and at times, the distinction between the danavas and Hindu deities is complex and they are difficult to distinguish from one another.
The Danavas are a collective, mythological group of demons that are found in a range of Hindu texts. The Danavas are a part of a larger group of the Asuras and are typically portrayed as opposed to the Hindu deities. However, historically their role in Hinduism is varied and at times, the distinction between the Danavas and Hindu deities is unclear and they are difficult to distinguish from one another.


=== Etymology ===
=== Etymology ===
The name ''danavas'' stems from the mother's name: [[Danu (Asura)|Danu]]. Both danavas and Danu are derived from the Vedic word ''Da'' meaning 'to give.' [[Ananda Coomaraswamy]] suggests this word connotes generosity.<ref>Coomaraswamy, A. (1935). Angel and Titan: An Essay in Vedic Ontology. Journal of the American Oriental Society, 55(4), 373–419</ref> Another interpretation of their name is associated with Danu's relationship with her first son (and demon), [[Vritra]]. In Indian mythology, in an attempt to deceive the Vedic god [[Indra]], Vritra hides away in the primordial water or blessed water from him. In this myth, Danu herself is embodied as being the primordial water in which he hides in. The names of Danu and danavas as well as the individual names given to many of the sons of Danu differ across Vedic and Puranic literature, causing confusion as to where their etymological origins lie.<ref>Kinsley, D. (1988). 'Goddesses in Vedic Literature' Hindu Goddesses : Visions of the Divine Feminine in the Hindu Religious Tradition. (Pp.6-18) University of California Press.</ref>


The name ‘Danavas’ stems from the mother’s name: [[Danu (Asura)|Danu]]. Both Danavas and Danu are derived from the Vedic word ‘Da’ meaning “to give.” Ananda Coomaraswamy suggests this word connotes generosity.<ref>Coomaraswamy, A. (1935). Angel and Titan: An Essay in Vedic Ontology. Journal of the American Oriental Society, 55(4), 373–419</ref> Another interpretation of their name is associated with Danu’s relationship with her first son (and demon), [[Vritra]]. In Indian mythology, in an attempt to deceive the Vedic god [[Indra]], Vritra hides away in the primordial water or blessed water from him. In this myth, Danu herself is embodied as being the primordial water in which he hides in. However, the names of Danu and Danavas as well as the individual names given to many of the sons of Danu differ across Vedic and Puranic literature, causing confusion as to where their etymological origins lie.<ref>Kinsley, D. (1988). ‘Goddesses in Vedic Literature’ Hindu Goddesses : Visions of the Divine Feminine in the Hindu Religious Tradition . (Pp.6-18) University of California Press.</ref>
=== Story ===
 
The [[Deva (Hinduism)|devas]] exiled the danavas from [[Svarga]] during the ''[[Satya Yuga]]''. After the exile, the danavas are held to have taken refuge in the Vindhya range.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hindupedia.com/en/Dānava#cite_note-12 |title=Dānava |work=Hindupedia}}</ref>
While, many scholars attest the Danavas are Asura-like beings, the definition and etymology of the Asura are contested. W. E Hale suggests an alternate theory of origin that influenced by pre-Zoroastrianism, specifically between the [[Ahura]] and the Asuras. In the Indo-Iranian period, significant literature represented Ahuras’ positive or good nature while the
[[Daevas]] or Devas represented evil. The swapping of these inherent qualities of these beings may have confused the earlier formations of Hindu mythological beings.<ref>Hale, W. E. (1986). Asura in the Atharva Veda. ÁSURA-in early vedic religion.</ref>
 
=== History ===
 
The [[Deva (Hinduism)|Devas]] exiled the Danavas from heaven during the ''[[Satya Yuga]]''. After exile, the Danavas took refuge in the Vindhya Mountains or the [[Vindhya Range]].<ref>http://www.hindupedia.com/en/Dānava#cite_note-12</ref>


=== Genealogy ===
=== Genealogy ===
The genealogical history of asuras is laid out in a range of texts, most notably in the [[Mahabharata]]. The genealogy of the demons or asuras begins with Brahma's six sons. One son, [[Marichi]], fathered Kashyapa, who married thirteen of Daksha's daughters, including [[Diti]] and Danu. [[Diti]] and Danu's children are among the most well-known demons in Hindu mythology. Diti's children are known as the [[daitya]]s and Danu's offspring are known as the danavas.


The genealogical history of Asuras is laid out in a range of texts, most notably in the [[Mahabharata]]. The genealogy of the demons or Asuras begins with Brahma’s 6 sons. One son, Marici fathered Kashyapa, who wed 13 of Daksha’s daughters, including [[Diti]] and Danu. Diti and Danu’s children are
The names of danavas and the [[daityas]] are irregularly found and depicted throughout early Vedic literature such as the Rig Veda along with the Mahabharata. The Brill's Encyclopedia of Hinduism states, "... in the Mahābhārata Vṛtra is the son of Danāyu, (and) the Ṛigveda ([[Rigveda 1.32|1.32.9]]) speaks of Vṛtra as the son of Danu."<ref>Rodrigues, Hillary. 'Asuras, Daityas, Dānavas, Rākṣasas, Piśācas, Bhūtas, Pretas, and so Forth.' Brill's Encyclopedia of Hinduism Online. Ed. Knut A.Jacobsen et al. Brill Reference Online. Web. 11 Sept. 2020.</ref> However, in books 2-7 of the Rig Veda, Vrta is not considered an asura or demon, and there is no mention of Danu or the danavas at all.<ref>Hale, W. E. (1986). Asura in the Atharva Veda. ÁSURA-in early vedic religion. (Pp.100-119). Motilal Banarsidass Publishers.</ref>
among the most well known demons in Hindu mythology. Diti’s children are known as the Daityas and Danu’s offspring are known as the Danavas. It is important to note, that the names of Danavas and the [[Daityas]] are irregularly found and depicted throughout early Vedic literature such as the Rig Veda along with the Mahabharata.The Brill’s Encyclopedia of Hinduism states, “... in the Mahābhārata Vṛtra is the son of Danāyu, (and) the Ṛigveda (1.32.9) speaks of Vṛtra as the son of Danu.” <ref>Rodrigues, Hillary. ‘Asuras, Daityas, Dānavas, Rākṣasas, Piśācas, Bhūtas, Pretas, and so Forth.’ Brill’s Encyclopedia of Hinduism Online. Ed. Knut A.Jacobsen et al. Brill Reference Online. Web. 11 Sept. 2020.</ref> However, in books 2-7 of the Rig Veda, Vrta is not considered an Asura or demon and, there is no mention of Danu or the  
Danavas at all.<ref>Hale, W. E. (1986). Asura in the Atharva Veda. ÁSURA-in early vedic religion. (Pp.100-119). Motilal Banarsidass Publishe.</ref>


{{Tree list}}
{{Tree list}}
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***** Ashva
***** Ashva
***** Ashvagiri
***** Ashvagiri
***** Ashvagriva            
***** Ashvagriva  
***** Ashvapati
***** Ashvapati
***** Ashvasanku
***** Ashvasanku
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***** Gavisthar  
***** Gavisthar  
***** Hara
***** Hara
***** Hayagriva
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***** Isrpa
***** Kabandha  
***** Kabandha  
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Netherlands</ref>
Netherlands</ref>


==Physical Appearance==
==Physical appearance==
 
The daityas and the danavas share the same physical features and characteristics as their counterparts, the devas. In Hindu religion, the power of Maya or the power of magic(sometimes attributed to illusion)  is possessed by both good and evil supernatural beings. The power of illusion allows beings to change their physical form.<ref>O'flaherty, W. D., & Doniger, W. (1980). God, Demons and Men. The origins of evil in Hindu Religion (pp.57-212) (No. 6). Univ of California Press.</ref> Despite their extensive role in certain texts, there are not many examples of the physical characteristics of the danavas in their own right or even in conjunction with devas in literature and art.
The Daityas and Danavas share the same physical features and characteristics as their  
counterparts, the Devas. In Hindu myth, the power of Maya or the power of illusion is  
possessed by both good and evil supernatural beings. The power of illusion allows beings to  
change their physical form.<ref>O'flaherty, W. D., & Doniger, W. (1980). God, Demons and Men. The origins of evil in Hindu mythology (pp.57-212) (No. 6). Univ of California Press.</ref> There are not many examples of the physical characteristics of the Danavas in their own right or even in conjunction with Devas in literature and art, despite their extensive role in certain texts.
 
==Myth and Literature==


=== Role in Literature ===
==Literature==
 
The extensive research into the supernatural beings of Hinduism focuses on their ambiguity. Both good and bad supernatural beings demonstrate malevolent, powerful, yet merciful personalities. Therefore, at times, it is difficult to discern between the roles of oppositional beings. This is particularly evident in earlier Vedic literature where there is not an emphasis on the oppositional qualities of these beings. In many myths or hymns, they perform identical actions to one another. Subsequently, the danavas's role is hardly distinguished or mentioned in Vedic literature. O'Flaherty and Doniger state that in later literature like the ''[[Mahabharata]]'', these beings are slowly considered a part of "... two separate castes; each has his own job to do – the gods to encourage sacrifice, the demons to destroy it – but there is no immorality in the demons; they are merely doing their job, a destructive one..."<ref>O'flaherty, W. D., & Doniger, W. (1980). God, Demons and Men</ref> While, in the earlier Vedic period, themes of caste-based structures of worship were not prominent.
The extensive research into the supernatural beings of Hinduism focuses on their ambiguity.  
Both good and bad supernatural beings, demonstrate malevolent, powerful and interestingly, merciful personalities. Therefore, at times, it is difficult to discern between the roles of the two oppositional beings. This is particularly evident in earlier Vedic literature where there is not a emphasis on the oppositional qualities of these beings. In many myths or hymns, they perform identical actions to one another. Subsequently, the Danavas role are hardly distinguished and mentions in Vedic literature. O’Flaherty and Doniger state that in later literature like the Mahabharata, these beings Are slowly considered as a part of, “…two separate castes; each has  
his own job to do – the gods to encourage sacrifice, the demons to destroy it – but there is no immorality in the demons; they are merely doing their job, a destructive one….” <ref>O'flaherty, W. D., & Doniger, W. (1980). God, Demons and Men</ref> While, in earlier Vedic period, themes of caste-based structures of worship were not prominent.
 
== Notable Appearances ==


== Myths ==
===Natyashastra===
===Natyashastra===
 
In the Natyashastra, the danavas are depicted as evil demons, meddling with dancers. Particularly, in the first chapter of the Natyashastra, the danavas freeze and stop the performance of the dancers during an important event dedicated to the Hindu deities. Angering the deities, the danavas are attacked and defeated by [[Indra]] and an enclosed, safe dance arena is created for the dancers. Afterwards, dance-dramas depicting the defeat of the danavas are performed at the arena and anger the demons further. The danavas protestations are reserved for Brahma, the god of creation. Brahma advises the danavas that dance drama allows participants and viewers to become divine or a part of the gods in unison. Therefore, some scholars interpret Brahma's reply as the important role dance plays in worship.<ref>McCulloch, Ann (2002). In/Stead Retrospective Issue 3: Bharatnatyam, the Technique of  
In the Natyashastra, the Danavas are depicted as evil demons, meddling with dancers. Particularly, in the first chapter of the Natyashastra, the Danavas freeze and stop the performance of the dancers during an important event dedicated to the Hindu deities. Angering the deities, the Danavas are attacked and defeated by [[Indra]] and an enclosed, safe dance arena is created for the dancers. Afterwards, dance-dramas depicting the defeat of the Danavas are performed at the arena and anger the demons further. The Danavas protestations are reserved for Brahma, the god of creation. Brahma advises the Danavas that dance drama allows participants and viewers to become divine or apart of the gods in unison. Therefore, some scholars interpret Brahma’s reply as the important role dance plays in worship.<ref>McCulloch, Ann (2002). In/Stead Retrospective Issue 3: Bharatnatyam, the Technique of  
Story Performing! Double dialogues. Double Dialogues, Canterbury, Vic Retrieved from:  
Story Performing! Double dialogues. Double Dialogues, Canterbury, Vic Retrieved from:  
http://www.doubledialogues.com/article/bharatnatyam-the-technique-of-story-performing/</ref>
http://www.doubledialogues.com/article/bharatnatyam-the-technique-of-story-performing/</ref>


=== Indra-Vrta Myth ===
=== Indra–Vritra Story===
 
The Indra–Vritra Story is the only known story that contains a prominent son of Danu, a member of the danavas. These myths are what later cement the rivalry of the devas and asuras. The struggle between Indra and [[Vritra]] act as a, "cosmogonic myth" as it discusses the birth of ''sat'' ('order') from ''asat'' ('chaos').<ref>Rodrigues, Hillary. 'Asuras, Daityas, Dānavas, Rākṣasas, Piśācas, Bhūtas, Pretas, and so Forth'. Brill's Encyclopedia of Hinduism Online. Ed. Knut A. Jacobsen et al. Brill Reference Online. Web. 11 Sept. 2020.</ref>
The Indra-Vrta myth is the only known myth that contains a prominent son of Danu and, therefore is a member of the Danavas. These myths are what later cement the rivalry of the Devas and Asuras. The struggle between Indra and Vrta act as a, “cosmogonic myth” as it discusses the birth of sat (order) from asat. (chaos) <ref>Rodrigues, Hillary. ‘Asuras, Daityas, Dānavas, Rākṣasas, Piśācas, Bhūtas, Pretas, and so Forth.’ Brill’s Encyclopedia of Hinduism Online. Ed. Knut A.Jacobsen et al. Brill Reference Online. Web. 11 Sept. 2020.</ref>
 
===Maya Asura===
 
Maya Danava or Maya Asura  is a prominent member of the Danavas and is extensively found throughout the Mahabharata. He was known to be a popular architect and rival to the architect to the gods, Vishwakarma. He is also known as being the father in law to Ravana, a prominent demon in Hindu Mythology. He wrote the Surya Siddhanta. However, he is most known for his architecture. In the Book 2, Section 1: Sabha Parva of the Mahabharata, Maya Danava built the ‘Maya Sabha’ or the palace of illusions for the Pandava brothers. Here, Maya Sura or Maya Danava asked Arjuna for guidance and advised he wished to built something of value for him and the Pandavas. After Arjuna and Vaisampayana discuss what should be built, Krishna advised Maya to build godlike palace. As translated by Ganguli, Krishna contemplates and announces what he desires. Interestingly, Maya is referred to being the son of Diti, despite being addressed as Maya Danava during the entirety of Book 2.


“'''Krishna, the Lord of the universe and the Creator of every object, having reflected in his mind, thus commanded Maya,--'Let a palatial sabha (meeting hall) as thou choosest, be built (by thee), if thou, O son of Diti, who art the foremost of all artists, desirest to do good to Yudhishthira the just. Indeed, build thou such a palace that persons belonging to the world of men may not be able to imitate it even after examining it with care, while seated within. And, O Maya, build thou a mansion in which we may behold a combination of godly, asuric and human designs.”''' {{cite wikisource |The Mahabharata= |Book 2 Sabha Parva, Section 1 = |last= Ganguli|first= Kisari Mohan |authorlink= |date= 1883–1896}}
===Mayasura===
[[Mayasura]], also called Maya Danava, is a prominent member of the danavas and is extensively found throughout the Mahabharata. He was a popular architect and rival to the architect to the gods, [[Vishvakarma]]. He is also known for being the father-in-law to [[Ravana]], a prominent antagonist in Hindu mythology. He wrote the Surya Siddhanta. However, he is most known for his architecture. In the Sabha Parva of the Mahabharata, Maya danava built the '[[Mayasabha]]', or the palace of illusions for the Pandava brothers. Here, Mayasura asked Arjuna for guidance and advised he wished to build something of value for him and the Pandavas. After [[Arjuna]] and Vaisampayana discuss what should be built, [[Krishna]] advised Maya to build a godlike palace. As translated by Ganguli, Krishna contemplates and announces what he desires. Maya is referred to being the son of [[Diti]], despite being addressed as Maya danava during the entirety of Book 2.{{Blockquote|Krishna, the Lord of the universe and the Creator of every object, having reflected in his mind, thus commanded Maya,—'Let a palatial sabha (meeting hall) as thou choosest, be built (by thee), if thou, O son of Diti, who art the foremost of all artists, desirest to do good to Yudhishthira the just. Indeed, build thou such a palace that persons belonging to the world of men may not be able to imitate it even after examining it with care, while seated within. And, O Maya, build thou a mansion in which we may behold a combination of godly, asuric and human designs.<ref>{{cite wikisource |The Mahabharata= |Book 2 Sabha Parva, Section 1 = |last= Ganguli|first= Kisari Mohan |author-link= |date= 1883–1896}}</ref>}}


Elsewhere, Mayasura built the Tripura also known as the three cities of gold, silver and iron. Also, he built the city of Lankapuri in Sri Lanka.
Elsewhere, Mayasura built [[Tripura (mythology)|Tripura]], also known as the three cities of gold, silver and iron. He also built the city of Lankapuri in [[Lanka]].


== See also ==
== See also ==
{{div col|colwidth=30em}}
{{div col|colwidth=30em}}
*[[Asura]]
*[[Asura]]
*[[Bhagavata Purana]]
*[[Daitya]]
*[[Daitya]]
*[[Danaïdes]]
*[[Danube]] River Danu-be
*[[Denyen]]
*[[Dewi Danu]]
*[[Dewi Danu]]
*[[Rakshasa]]
*[[Kalakeyas]]
*[[Kalakeyas]]
*[[Kukulkan]]
*[[List of Asuras]]
*[[List of Asuras]]
*[[Nāga]]
*[[Nivatakavacha]]
*[[Nivatakavacha]]
*[[Nāga]]
*[[Rakshasa]]
*[[Bhagavata Purana]]
*[[Tribe of Dan]]
*[[Denyen]]
*[[Tuatha Dé Danann]]
*[[Tuatha Dé Danann]]
*[[Danube]] River Danu-be
 
*[[Tribe of Dan]]
 
*[[Kukulkan]]
*[[Danaïdes]]
{{colend}}
{{colend}}


==Notes==
==Notes==
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{{Reflist}}
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[[Category:Danavas| ]]
[[Category:Danavas| ]]
[[Category:Hindu mythology]]
[[Category:Legendary creatures in Hindu mythology]]
 
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{{Dharmic-reli-stub}}

Latest revision as of 15:50, 18 March 2026


Danavas
Matsya slays a danava called Hayagriva
Devanagariदानव
TextsMahabharata, Rig Veda, Natyashastra
ParentsDanu and Kashyapa
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In Hindu mythology, the danavas are a race descending from Kashyapa and his wife Danu, a daughter of the progenitor god, Daksha.[1] It is mentioned that there are one hundred danavas.[2]

Origin[edit | edit source]

The danavas are a mythological race of asuras, the half-brothers to the devas and daityas that are found in a range of Hindu texts. The danavas are a part of a larger group of the asuras, and are typically portrayed as opposed to the Hindu deities. However, historically, their role in Hinduism is varied and at times, the distinction between the danavas and Hindu deities is complex and they are difficult to distinguish from one another.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The name danavas stems from the mother's name: Danu. Both danavas and Danu are derived from the Vedic word Da meaning 'to give.' Ananda Coomaraswamy suggests this word connotes generosity.[3] Another interpretation of their name is associated with Danu's relationship with her first son (and demon), Vritra. In Indian mythology, in an attempt to deceive the Vedic god Indra, Vritra hides away in the primordial water or blessed water from him. In this myth, Danu herself is embodied as being the primordial water in which he hides in. The names of Danu and danavas as well as the individual names given to many of the sons of Danu differ across Vedic and Puranic literature, causing confusion as to where their etymological origins lie.[4]

Story[edit | edit source]

The devas exiled the danavas from Svarga during the Satya Yuga. After the exile, the danavas are held to have taken refuge in the Vindhya range.[5]

Genealogy[edit | edit source]

The genealogical history of asuras is laid out in a range of texts, most notably in the Mahabharata. The genealogy of the demons or asuras begins with Brahma's six sons. One son, Marichi, fathered Kashyapa, who married thirteen of Daksha's daughters, including Diti and Danu. Diti and Danu's children are among the most well-known demons in Hindu mythology. Diti's children are known as the daityas and Danu's offspring are known as the danavas.

The names of danavas and the daityas are irregularly found and depicted throughout early Vedic literature such as the Rig Veda along with the Mahabharata. The Brill's Encyclopedia of Hinduism states, "... in the Mahābhārata Vṛtra is the son of Danāyu, (and) the Ṛigveda (1.32.9) speaks of Vṛtra as the son of Danu."[6] However, in books 2-7 of the Rig Veda, Vrta is not considered an asura or demon, and there is no mention of Danu or the danavas at all.[7]

  • Brahma
    • Marici
      • Kashyapa
        • Danu
          • Ashva
          • Ashvagiri
          • Ashvagriva
          • Ashvapati
          • Ashvasanku
          • Ashvasiras
          • Ayumukha
          • Danayu
          • Dirghajibha
          • Ekacakra
          • Ekaksha
          • Gaganamurdhana
          • Gavisthar
          • Hara
          • Hayagriva
          • Isrpa
          • Kabandha
          • Kapata (or Vegavat)
          • Kabila
          • Karambha
          • Kesin
          • Ketumat
          • Kupatha
          • Maydanav
          • Mrtapa
          • Naraka
          • Nichandra
          • Nikumbha
          • Pralambha
          • Puloman
          • Rambha
          • Salabha
          • Sankara
          • Sankusiras
          • Sarabha
          • Satha
          • Satrutpana
          • Swarbhanu
          • Tuhundra
          • Viprachitti
          • Vritra

At other times, the genealogical roots of the demons are not emphasised. Demons are sometimes depicted as ancestral, deceased beings who had been mistreated in their human lifetime by relatives who had not performed the proper and correct funeral rites for these beings in their human form.[8]

Physical appearance[edit | edit source]

The daityas and the danavas share the same physical features and characteristics as their counterparts, the devas. In Hindu religion, the power of Maya or the power of magic(sometimes attributed to illusion) is possessed by both good and evil supernatural beings. The power of illusion allows beings to change their physical form.[9] Despite their extensive role in certain texts, there are not many examples of the physical characteristics of the danavas in their own right or even in conjunction with devas in literature and art.

Literature[edit | edit source]

The extensive research into the supernatural beings of Hinduism focuses on their ambiguity. Both good and bad supernatural beings demonstrate malevolent, powerful, yet merciful personalities. Therefore, at times, it is difficult to discern between the roles of oppositional beings. This is particularly evident in earlier Vedic literature where there is not an emphasis on the oppositional qualities of these beings. In many myths or hymns, they perform identical actions to one another. Subsequently, the danavas's role is hardly distinguished or mentioned in Vedic literature. O'Flaherty and Doniger state that in later literature like the Mahabharata, these beings are slowly considered a part of "... two separate castes; each has his own job to do – the gods to encourage sacrifice, the demons to destroy it – but there is no immorality in the demons; they are merely doing their job, a destructive one..."[10] While, in the earlier Vedic period, themes of caste-based structures of worship were not prominent.

Myths[edit | edit source]

Natyashastra[edit | edit source]

In the Natyashastra, the danavas are depicted as evil demons, meddling with dancers. Particularly, in the first chapter of the Natyashastra, the danavas freeze and stop the performance of the dancers during an important event dedicated to the Hindu deities. Angering the deities, the danavas are attacked and defeated by Indra and an enclosed, safe dance arena is created for the dancers. Afterwards, dance-dramas depicting the defeat of the danavas are performed at the arena and anger the demons further. The danavas protestations are reserved for Brahma, the god of creation. Brahma advises the danavas that dance drama allows participants and viewers to become divine or a part of the gods in unison. Therefore, some scholars interpret Brahma's reply as the important role dance plays in worship.[11]

Indra–Vritra Story[edit | edit source]

The Indra–Vritra Story is the only known story that contains a prominent son of Danu, a member of the danavas. These myths are what later cement the rivalry of the devas and asuras. The struggle between Indra and Vritra act as a, "cosmogonic myth" as it discusses the birth of sat ('order') from asat ('chaos').[12]

Mayasura[edit | edit source]

Mayasura, also called Maya Danava, is a prominent member of the danavas and is extensively found throughout the Mahabharata. He was a popular architect and rival to the architect to the gods, Vishvakarma. He is also known for being the father-in-law to Ravana, a prominent antagonist in Hindu mythology. He wrote the Surya Siddhanta. However, he is most known for his architecture. In the Sabha Parva of the Mahabharata, Maya danava built the 'Mayasabha', or the palace of illusions for the Pandava brothers. Here, Mayasura asked Arjuna for guidance and advised he wished to build something of value for him and the Pandavas. After Arjuna and Vaisampayana discuss what should be built, Krishna advised Maya to build a godlike palace. As translated by Ganguli, Krishna contemplates and announces what he desires. Maya is referred to being the son of Diti, despite being addressed as Maya danava during the entirety of Book 2.

Krishna, the Lord of the universe and the Creator of every object, having reflected in his mind, thus commanded Maya,—'Let a palatial sabha (meeting hall) as thou choosest, be built (by thee), if thou, O son of Diti, who art the foremost of all artists, desirest to do good to Yudhishthira the just. Indeed, build thou such a palace that persons belonging to the world of men may not be able to imitate it even after examining it with care, while seated within. And, O Maya, build thou a mansion in which we may behold a combination of godly, asuric and human designs.[13]

Elsewhere, Mayasura built Tripura, also known as the three cities of gold, silver and iron. He also built the city of Lankapuri in Lanka.

See also[edit | edit source]


Notes[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ www.wisdomlib.org (11 April 2009). "Danava, Dānava, Dānavā: 22 definitions". www.wisdomlib.org. Retrieved 4 August 2022.
  2. ↑ www.wisdomlib.org (28 January 2019). "Story of Danu". www.wisdomlib.org. Retrieved 4 August 2022.
  3. ↑ Coomaraswamy, A. (1935). Angel and Titan: An Essay in Vedic Ontology. Journal of the American Oriental Society, 55(4), 373–419
  4. ↑ Kinsley, D. (1988). 'Goddesses in Vedic Literature' Hindu Goddesses : Visions of the Divine Feminine in the Hindu Religious Tradition. (Pp.6-18) University of California Press.
  5. ↑ "Dānava". Hindupedia.
  6. ↑ Rodrigues, Hillary. 'Asuras, Daityas, Dānavas, Rākṣasas, Piśācas, Bhūtas, Pretas, and so Forth.' Brill's Encyclopedia of Hinduism Online. Ed. Knut A.Jacobsen et al. Brill Reference Online. Web. 11 Sept. 2020.
  7. ↑ Hale, W. E. (1986). Asura in the Atharva Veda. ÁSURA-in early vedic religion. (Pp.100-119). Motilal Banarsidass Publishers.
  8. ↑ Jain, P., Sherma, R., & Khanna, M. (2019). Hinduism and Tribal Religions. Springer Netherlands
  9. ↑ O'flaherty, W. D., & Doniger, W. (1980). God, Demons and Men. The origins of evil in Hindu Religion (pp.57-212) (No. 6). Univ of California Press.
  10. ↑ O'flaherty, W. D., & Doniger, W. (1980). God, Demons and Men
  11. ↑ McCulloch, Ann (2002). In/Stead Retrospective Issue 3: Bharatnatyam, the Technique of Story Performing! Double dialogues. Double Dialogues, Canterbury, Vic Retrieved from: http://www.doubledialogues.com/article/bharatnatyam-the-technique-of-story-performing/
  12. ↑ Rodrigues, Hillary. 'Asuras, Daityas, Dānavas, Rākṣasas, Piśācas, Bhūtas, Pretas, and so Forth'. Brill's Encyclopedia of Hinduism Online. Ed. Knut A. Jacobsen et al. Brill Reference Online. Web. 11 Sept. 2020.
  13. ↑ Ganguli, Kisari Mohan (1883–1896). [[s:|]] – via Wikisource.

External links[edit | edit source]

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