Krodha, also known as Krodhavasha, is a significant figure in Hindu mythology. Her name, derived from the Sanskrit word "krodha," means "anger." She was one of the daughters of the progenitor Daksha and became one of the many wives of the sage Kashyapa, a revered figure in Hindu lore known for fathering various creatures and deities.
Lineage and Progeny
Mother of Bhutas and Pishachas: Krodhavasha's offspring include the Bhutas and Pishachas. Bhutas are spirits, often associated with the restless dead who have not found peace. They are frequently depicted in various Hindu texts as supernatural beings with ghostly or spirit-like characteristics. Pishachas are similar to Bhutas but are typically considered more malevolent, often described as flesh-eating demons or ghouls.
Sharduli: According to the Mahabharata, Sharduli, the tigress, was a daughter of Krodhavasha. Sharduli is notable for being the progenitor of lions and tigers, indicating Krodhavasha's role in the creation of wild and fierce creatures.
Descriptions in Sacred Texts
Vishnu Purana: The Vishnu Purana describes Krodhavasha as the mother of sharp-toothed monsters that devour flesh, inhabiting various realms such as the earth, among birds, and in the waters. This emphasizes her connection to dangerous and carnivorous beings, highlighting her role in the natural order of predators.
Vayu Purana: In the Vayu Purana, it is mentioned that Krodhavasha had twelve daughters, from whom various wild animals and other beings were born. This further expands her lineage, indicating her contribution to the diversity of wildlife and supernatural entities in Hindu cosmology.
Krodhavasha's Role in Hindu Cosmology
Krodhavasha's significance in Hindu mythology is multifaceted. As the mother of Bhutas and Pishachas, she represents the darker aspects of creation, embodying anger and its manifestations in the form of spirits and demons. Her progeny, such as Sharduli, link her to the animal kingdom, particularly to the predators, emphasizing the balance of nature where both benign and malevolent forces coexist.
Symbolism and Interpretation
Krodhavasha's name and her progeny symbolize the concept of anger and its powerful, sometimes destructive, energy. In the broader context of Hindu philosophy, her story underscores the dual nature of existence, where creation encompasses both benevolent and malevolent forces. Her descendants, ranging from spirits to wild animals, illustrate the interconnectedness of all life forms and the diverse expressions of divine energy.
Krodhavasha, through her lineage, plays a critical role in the tapestry of Hindu mythology. Her story is a reminder of the potent force of anger and its role in the cosmic balance, influencing the creation of both spiritual entities and physical beings. Understanding her place in these narratives provides insight into the complex and rich mythology that characterizes Hindu cosmological traditions.