Agni

Agni, the Vedic god of fire, plays a vital role in Hindu rituals and mythology as the divine messenger who bridges the human and divine realms through sacrificial offerings. In the epics, Agni holds a prominent position. In the Mahabharata, Agni is central to the Khandava Forest episode, where he consumes the forest to satiate his hunger with the help of Krishna and Arjuna, leading to the establishment of Indraprastha. In the Ramayana, Agni is the protector of Sita’s purity. After her ordeal in Lanka, Sita undergoes Agni Pariksha (trial by fire), where Agni himself affirms her chastity. Revered as the purifier and sustainer of life, Agni’s presence symbolizes transformation and divine will across the Hindu epics.

Astika, a young sage, stands calmly in front of a large ritual fire surrounded by snakes, stopping the snake sacrifice led by King Janamejaya. The king, in royal attire, watches with anger and determination, while divine figures, including Vasuki, observe in anticipation. The scene takes place in an ancient palace courtyard, with intense flames and swirling serpents.

Astika: The birth of the saviour

Astika, a legendary sage from the Mahabharata, is revered for his role in stopping the snake sacrifice led by King Janamejaya. Born to the sage Jaratkaru and the serpent king’s sister, Astika’s wisdom and eloquence saved countless serpents from a fiery end, fulfilling both his divine destiny and his father’s promise to their ancestors. Discover the fascinating story of how Astika changed the course of history with his bravery and intellect.