Kubera, revered as the Lord of Wealth and the King of the Yakshas, holds a significant place in Hindu scriptures. Also known as Vaisravana, he is the guardian of the northern direction (Dikpala) and the ruler of the opulent city of Alaka, nestled amidst the Himalayas near Mount Kailash. The Mahabharata describes him as “the best of the Yakshas, resplendent and golden-complexioned, seated upon a shining chariot” (Vana Parva, 163.20). He is often depicted as a symbol of prosperity, generosity, and justice, entrusted by the gods with the care of all earthly treasures.
Ahuti: The Noble Consort
Kubera’s wife, Ahuti (also known in some texts as Yakshi or Charvi), is described as a virtuous and graceful being, sharing in her husband’s celestial duties. Together they represent the balance between material abundance and spiritual righteousness. Ahuti is said to dwell with Kubera in Alaka, a city “adorned with golden palaces and gardens where celestial beings rejoice,” as mentioned in the Ramayana (Kishkindha Kanda, 40.29).
Children of Kubera: Symbols of Blessing and Devotion
Kubera and Ahuti were blessed with two sons, Nalakubera and Manigriva, and a daughter named Meenakshi. Nalakubera and Manigriva are remembered for an important episode recounted in the Bhagavata Purana (Canto 10, Chapter 10). Intoxicated with pride, they once offended the sage Narada. The sage cursed them to become trees, but promised deliverance through the divine touch of Lord Krishna. When Krishna, as a child, uprooted the twin Arjuna trees in Gokul, the brothers were liberated, expressing their gratitude and devotion to the Lord. Their story stands as a reminder that humility and devotion surpass material wealth.
Meenakshi: The Graceful Daughter
Meenakshi, their daughter, though less frequently mentioned in major epics, is regarded in regional traditions as a radiant and wise goddess embodying beauty and auspiciousness. Her name signifies “the one with fish-shaped eyes,” symbolizing divine perception and compassion. In certain narratives, she is associated with fertility, prosperity, and the nurturing aspect of divine femininity.
Gandhamadana: The Yaksha-born Warrior
When Lord Rama was preparing for the great battle against Ravana, Brahma commanded various divine beings to aid him by creating mighty vanaras (monkey warriors). Kubera, in obedience to this command, created Gandhamadana, his Yaksha-born son in monkey form. Gandhamadana became a powerful ally of Rama and fought valiantly in the Ramayana’s war of dharma. His strength and loyalty reflected his divine lineage and his father’s righteousness.
Alaka: The Abode of Splendor
Kubera’s capital, Alaka, is celebrated in the Ramayana and Mahabharata as a city of eternal beauty and wealth. Located near Mount Kailash, it is described as a place “where music never ceases, and the air is filled with fragrance and joy.” The Yakshas and Gandharvas dwell there, serving Kubera with devotion.
Kubera and His Celestial Household
The family of Kubera reflects the divine harmony of wealth, virtue, humility, and devotion. Through his sons and daughter, Kubera’s lineage conveys timeless lessons—reminding humanity that true prosperity lies not merely in possession, but in righteousness and reverence toward the divine. Kubera’s family, residing in the celestial realm of Alaka, continues to symbolize abundance, grace, and divine order within the eternal tapestry of Hindu belief.