In Hinduism, Simha or lion is regarded as symbol of valor, strength, courage and ferociousness. The main symbolism associated with lion in Hinduism is that of heroism and bravery.
Simha is the carrier or vahana or vehicle of Goddess Durga, Goddess Gandheswari and Goddess Jagaddhatri.
As per Shiva Purana, Brahma gives Simha to Goddess Durga as her vehicle to facilitate the killing of Shumbha and Nishumbha.
The Narasimha Avatar of Bhagwan Vishnu is famous as man-lion avatar – he has the body of a man and the head of a lion.