How Lord Shiva’s Throat Turned Blue?

Asuras and devas were cousins who were constantly at war. The cousins once came to an agreement to stop fighting and work together. Amrit, or the nectar of immortality, was to be produced by churning the ocean of milk. Amrit was immortal, and anyone who drank it would never die. Both the devas and asuras, cousins, desired immortality. So, they agreed to churn the ocean of milk.

On the ocean bed, they set up Mandara, a large mountain. Amrit would be pulled out of the ocean by the mountain as a rod. In order to hold Mount Mandara afloat on the ocean floor and prevent it from sinking, Lord Vishnu assumed the form of a massive tortoise. 

Vasuki, the serpent king, let the cousins use him as a rope to turn the enormous churning rod. Mount Mandara was encircled by the serpent in a loop. The devas held Vasuki’s tail, while the asuras held his head. The cousins began churning the ocean of milk with all of their might.

Haalaahala, a cloud of lethal poison, rose from the ocean of milk as it was vigorously stirred to their dismay. The asuras and devas were suffocated by this poisonous gas. 

Why Lord Shiva Is Known As Neela-kanta?

Shiva, however, took it in his hand and swallowed it before it could do much harm. Parvati, his wife, was quick to tightly grasp Shiva’s neck to stop the poison from getting down his throat as it may affect the entire universe. Shiva’s blue patch on his neck earned him the name Neela-kanta as a result.

Morals of The Story: How Lord Shiva’s Throat Turned Blue?

The devas and asuras, despite being bitter enemies, realized that they could achieve something incredible by working together. By pooling their resources and abilities, they were able to produce the nectar of immortality. We must understand the importance of cooperation and team work.

With great effort comes great reward!

The story also highlights the importance of sacrifice and selflessness. Lord Vishnu assumed the form of a tortoise to hold Mount Mandara afloat, while Shiva willingly took on the poisonous cloud to prevent it from harming others. Parvati’s quick thinking and bravery in grasping Shiva’s neck also demonstrates the importance of looking out for others and taking action when necessary to prevent harm.