Dashavatar, literally meaning "ten avatars," is a central tenet of Hinduism, particularly within Vaishnavism. It represents the belief that Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, incarnates in ten different forms to restore cosmic balance and dharma (righteousness) whenever evil prevails. These incarnations are not seen as separate deities but as manifestations of the same divine essence. The concept finds its roots in the Puranas, ancient Hindu texts, and has profoundly influenced Indian art, literature, and performing arts for centuries. The Ten Avatars The Dashavatar are sequentially listed as follows: Matsya (Fish): The first avatar, appearing during the great flood (Pralaya) to save Manu (the progenitor of humanity) and the Vedas. Kurma (Tortoise): Supported the Mandara mountain during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) to obtain Amrita (nectar of immortality). Varaha (Boar): Rescued the Earth (Bhudevi) from the depths of the cosmic ocean after it was seized by the demon Hiranyaksha. Narasimha (Half-Man, Half-Lion): Appeared to defeat the demon Hiranyakashipu, who had obtained a boon of invincibility. Vamana (Dwarf): Tricked the demon king Bali to grant him three strides of land, ultimately covering the entire universe and pushing Bali to the netherworld. Parashurama (Warrior with an Axe): A Brahmin warrior who fought against corrupt Kshatriya rulers to uphold dharma. Rama (Prince of Ayodhya): The hero of the Ramayana, embodying ideal virtues and defeating the demon king Ravana. Krishna (Cowherd, Statesman, Philosopher): A central figure in the Mahabharata, known for his wisdom, diplomacy, and role in the Kurukshetra war. Buddha (The Enlightened One): While debated, many Hindus consider Buddha as an avatar of Vishnu, sent to challenge prevailing Vedic rituals and promote compassion. Kalki (Future Avatar): Yet to appear, prophesied to arrive at the end of Kali Yuga (the current age) to destroy evil and usher in a new Satya Yuga (age of truth). Significance and Symbolism Each avatar represents a specific purpose and embodies particular virtues. The avatars demonstrate Vishnu’s commitment to protecting dharma and restoring balance in the universe. The sequence itself is often interpreted as a progression from simpler life forms to more complex ones, reflecting the evolutionary process. Artistic Representations The Dashavatar are frequently depicted in Indian art, sculpture, and temple architecture. Sculptures: Temples like the Khajuraho temples and those in Deogarh feature intricate carvings of the Dashavatar. Paintings: Miniature paintings, particularly those from the Rajasthani and Pahari schools, often illustrate episodes from the lives of the avatars. Dance & Drama: Kathakali, a classical dance form from Kerala, frequently portrays stories of the Dashavatar. Yakshagana, a traditional theatre form of Karnataka, also features these narratives. Cultural Impact The Dashavatar concept has permeated various aspects of Indian culture. It serves as a moral compass, inspiring devotees to emulate the virtues of the avatars. The stories associated with each avatar are often used to teach ethical lessons and reinforce societal values. The concept also influences festivals and rituals, with specific avatars being worshipped during certain times of the year. Dashavatar remains a cornerstone of Hindu belief, embodying the divine intervention in human affairs and the cyclical nature of time. Its enduring presence in art, literature, and performing arts testifies to its profound cultural significance. The concept continues to inspire and guide millions, reinforcing the importance of dharma and the ultimate triumph of good over evil.

Question 34 | UPSC Mains GENERAL-STUDIES-PAPER-I 2011

Dashavatar.

How to Approach

The question "Dashavatar" requires a concise yet comprehensive note on the concept. The answer should focus on its origins, significance in Hinduism, artistic representations, and its cultural impact. Structure the answer by first defining Dashavatar, then detailing the ten avatars, their purpose, and finally, its relevance in art and culture. Avoid purely theological debates and focus on the observable and historically documented aspects.

The Ten Avatars

The Dashavatar are sequentially listed as follows:

Matsya (Fish): The first avatar, appearing during the great flood (Pralaya) to save Manu (the progenitor of humanity) and the Vedas.
Kurma (Tortoise): Supported the Mandara mountain during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) to obtain Amrita (nectar of immortality).
Varaha (Boar): Rescued the Earth (Bhudevi) from the depths of the cosmic ocean after it was seized by the demon Hiranyaksha.
Narasimha (Half-Man, Half-Lion): Appeared to defeat the demon Hiranyakashipu, who had obtained a boon of invincibility.
Vamana (Dwarf): Tricked the demon king Bali to grant him three strides of land, ultimately covering the entire universe and pushing Bali to the netherworld.
Parashurama (Warrior with an Axe): A Brahmin warrior who fought against corrupt Kshatriya rulers to uphold dharma.
Rama (Prince of Ayodhya): The hero of the Ramayana, embodying ideal virtues and defeating the demon king Ravana.
Krishna (Cowherd, Statesman, Philosopher): A central figure in the Mahabharata, known for his wisdom, diplomacy, and role in the Kurukshetra war.
Buddha (The Enlightened One): While debated, many Hindus consider Buddha as an avatar of Vishnu, sent to challenge prevailing Vedic rituals and promote compassion.
Kalki (Future Avatar): Yet to appear, prophesied to arrive at the end of Kali Yuga (the current age) to destroy evil and usher in a new Satya Yuga (age of truth).

Significance and Symbolism

Each avatar represents a specific purpose and embodies particular virtues. The avatars demonstrate Vishnu’s commitment to protecting dharma and restoring balance in the universe. The sequence itself is often interpreted as a progression from simpler life forms to more complex ones, reflecting the evolutionary process.

Artistic Representations

The Dashavatar are frequently depicted in Indian art, sculpture, and temple architecture.

Sculptures: Temples like the Khajuraho temples and those in Deogarh feature intricate carvings of the Dashavatar.
Paintings: Miniature paintings, particularly those from the Rajasthani and Pahari schools, often illustrate episodes from the lives of the avatars.
Dance & Drama: Kathakali, a classical dance form from Kerala, frequently portrays stories of the Dashavatar. Yakshagana, a traditional theatre form of Karnataka, also features these narratives.

Cultural Impact

The Dashavatar concept has permeated various aspects of Indian culture. It serves as a moral compass, inspiring devotees to emulate the virtues of the avatars. The stories associated with each avatar are often used to teach ethical lessons and reinforce societal values. The concept also influences festivals and rituals, with specific avatars being worshipped during certain times of the year.

Additional Resources

Key Definitions

Dharma

Dharma refers to the cosmic law and order, righteousness, duty, and moral principles that uphold the universe. It is a central concept in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism.

Pralaya

Pralaya refers to the periodic dissolution or destruction of the universe in Hindu cosmology, followed by a period of recreation.

Key Statistics

Approximately 80% of India’s population identifies as Hindu (as per the 2011 Census of India).

Source: Census of India, 2011

UNESCO recognizes over 40 sites in India as World Heritage Sites, many of which feature depictions of the Dashavatar or are linked to narratives surrounding them (as of 2023).

Source: UNESCO World Heritage Centre

Examples

Ramayana’s Influence

The story of Rama, the seventh avatar, is a foundational narrative in Indian culture, influencing social norms, ethical values, and artistic expression. The epic is retold in numerous regional languages and continues to be a source of inspiration.

Frequently Asked Questions

▶Why is Buddha included in the Dashavatar, despite being the founder of a different religion?

The inclusion of Buddha as an avatar is a complex issue. Some interpretations suggest Vishnu incarnated as Buddha to challenge the dominance of Vedic rituals and promote non-violence and compassion, ultimately aiming to undermine demonic ideologies disguised as religious practices.