The Story of Sheshnag - Origin, Austerity and Eternal Glory

In the ancient Indian Vedas and Puranas, Sheshnag is also known as “Anant” and “Adishesha.” He is not only the lord of serpents but also a symbol of the universe’s balance, the foundation of the earth and the divine couch of Lord Vishnu. The story of Sheshnag is filled with devotion, austerity and divinity that deeply touches every reader.

Origin of Sheshnag

The tale of Kadru and Vinata

Kadru and Vinata were two daughters of Prajapati Daksha and wives of the sage Kashyap. Kadru prayed for a thousand radiant serpent sons from Kashyap, while Vinata sought only two powerful sons. When the time came, a thousand serpents hatched from Kadru’s eggs, among whom Sheshnag appeared first and was the most powerful.

Why is he called "Shesh"?

“Shesh” means “that which remains” or “infinite.” He is called so because even after the destruction of creation, Sheshnag’s existence continues. He is blessed with eternal life.

Sheshnag’s Austerity and Brahma’s Blessing

Renouncing mother and brothers

Once, Kadru deceived her sister Vinata, which caused deep sorrow for Sheshnag. In his grief, he abandoned his mother and brothers and went to Mount Gandhamadana to perform intense penance.

Brahma’s boon

Pleased by his selfless devotion and severe penance, Lord Brahma blessed Sheshnag that his intellect would never deviate from righteousness. Brahma also instructed him to hold the earth steady on his hood, since the earth constantly moves and shakes. Since then, Sheshnag supports the earth on his hood.

Sheshnag as Lord Vishnu’s Couch

The serpent bed in Kshirsagar

Sheshnag is regarded as the supreme devotee of Lord Vishnu. In the cosmic ocean of milk, Kshirsagar, Sheshnag forms a couch with his thousand hoods for Lord Vishnu to rest. Vishnu rests on this couch, maintaining balance and stability in the universe.

Avatars of Sheshnag:

In Treta Yuga, Sheshnag incarnated as Lakshman, the brother of Lord Rama and in Dvapara Yuga, as Balarama, the brother of Lord Krishna. In these incarnations, he assisted Lord Vishnu in establishing dharma and destroying adharma.

Glory and Symbolism of Sheshnag

Aspect	Description
Origin	Eldest son of Kadru and Kashyap
Austerity	Rigorous penance on Gandhamadana mountain; blessing from Brahma
Earth’s Support	Holds the earth on his hood to maintain balance
Vishnu’s Couch	Seat of Lord Vishnu in the cosmic ocean of milk
Avatars	Lakshman, Balarama, Patanjali, Ramanujacharya and others
Symbolism	Infinity, balance, patience, devotion, unwavering commitment to dharma

Hidden Message of the Story

• Balance and Patience: Sheshnag holding the earth on his hood symbolizes balance, patience and responsibility in life.
• Devotion and Service: Serving as Lord Vishnu’s couch represents supreme selfless devotion and dedicated service.
• Transformation and Eternity: The story teaches that true balance and eternity are achieved only by following the path of sacrifice, penance and righteousness.

A Thought to Carry Forward

The tale of Sheshnag is not merely a myth but remains relevant in every aspect of life. He embodies the universe’s balance and conveys the timeless message of devotion, service, patience and infinity.