Mahavisnu (Mahavishnu) and his Various Forms

Sri Ramakrishna says that there can be many spiritual paths as there are spiritual aspirants. Extending this further, we can accept as its corollary that there can be as many gods as there are devotees. As long as the central fact, viz., that these gods are the doorways leading to the one Godhead, is not forgotten, polytheism, pantheism, henotheism or 'any-theism' is acceptable. The bewildering variety of the Hindu gods should be viewed from this angle.

An unbiased, if not reverent, study of the Hindu gods and goddesses can convince anyone of the rich symbology they represent. Contemplating on them with a proper understanding of their symbolical significance will help us to be raised to more profound levels of spiritual experience.

In this booklet a humble attempt has been made to unravel the symbolism of Mahavisnu and his various forms. We earnestly hope that it will provide the readers with a basic knowledge of these deities and rouse their curiosity to know about the deities of the Hindu pantheon also.

Readers who may be interested in a more comprehensive study of the deities of the Hindu pantheon are advised to go through my book, Hindu Gods and Goddesses, published by the Sri Ramakrishna Math, Chennai.

Contents:

VISNU
Avataras or Incarnations of Lord Vishnu
   Matsya
   Kurma
   Varaha
   Narasimha
   Vamana
   Parasurama
   Sri Rama
   Balarama
   Sri Krsna
   Kalki
   More About the Avataras
Caturvyuhas
Minor Incarnations
   Dattatreya
   Dhanvantari
   Hayagriva or Hayasirsa
   Kapila
   Mohini
   Nara-Narayana
   Vyasa
   Yajna
   Other aspect of Visnu commonly worshipped
Minor Deities associated with Visnu