Garuda

Garuda, in Hinduism, is a divine bird, the vehicle (vahana) of the god Vishnu, famed for his immense strength and speed.

Garuda is a central figure in many Hindu mythological texts, including the Mahabharata and the Puranas. The son of the sage Kashyapa and Vinata, he is often depicted as part man and part eagle. His most famous tale involves his battle against the serpents (nagas) to save his mother from enslavement. Garuda is also known for his pivotal role in stealing the amrita (nectar of immortality) from the gods to free his mother. As the vahana of Vishnu, Garuda symbolizes speed and the fight against evil. Garuda has two sons, Jatayu and Sampati, who also feature in Indian epics.