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Jaladhi - The Vehicle Of Varuna - God Of Seas - Symbolism

Jaladhi, a crocodile, is the vehicle of Varuna, the Lord of the Seas in Hindu tradition. Information about Jaladhi is found in the Vamana Purana. It must be noted here that Makara, a crocodile is also the vehicle of Goddess Ganga (River Ganga).


Jaladhi is a black crocodile and Varuna rides on top of it. It is blessed with powers of movement through harsh waters.

Legend has it that Jaladhi appeared from the ear wax of Rudra Shiva.

Symbolism of Jaladhi Vehicle Of Varuna

In Hindu religion, Varuna, the Vedic deity of the cosmos, sky, and waters, is often depicted with several symbolic elements, including his vehicle or mount, which is known as Jaladhi. Here’s a deeper exploration of the symbolism associated with Jaladhi as the vehicle of Varuna:

Representation of the Oceanic Realm: Jaladhi literally means "the ocean" or "the sea" in Sanskrit. As Varuna's vehicle, Jaladhi symbolizes the vastness and depth of the cosmic waters. This reflects Varuna's dominion over the celestial ocean as well as the earthly waters.

Power and Majesty: Varuna is considered one of the most powerful Vedic deities, and his vehicle, the mighty ocean, reflects this power. The ocean is often seen as unpredictable, immense, and holding both the potential for creation and destruction, much like Varuna's authority over the cosmic order.

Cosmic Balance: Varuna is also associated with cosmic law and order (rita). The ocean, as his vehicle, symbolizes the boundaries and flow of these natural laws. Just as the ocean has its tides and currents governed by natural laws, Varuna maintains the cosmic order through his divine oversight.

Purification and Cleansing: Water in Hinduism is often linked to purification and cleansing. Varuna, through his association with water and his vehicle Jaladhi, represents the cleansing and purifying aspects of natural forces. This ties into Varuna's role as a deity who oversees moral and cosmic order, purifying sins and maintaining cosmic balance.

Transportation Between Realms: In Hindu religion, the vehicle of a deity often serves as a means of transportation between different realms or dimensions. Jaladhi as Varuna's vehicle may symbolize his ability to traverse between the celestial realms and the earthly realm, maintaining his vigilance over the waters that connect these worlds.

Symbol of Fertility and Life: Water is essential for life, and the ocean symbolizes fertility and abundance. Varuna, through his association with Jaladhi, embodies these qualities as a giver of life and sustenance.

Overall, Jaladhi as the vehicle of Varuna encapsulates themes of power, cosmic order, purification, and the essential role of water in sustaining life and maintaining balance in the universe according to Vedic cosmology and Hindu religion.