Kuvalayasva
AffiliationHinduism
TextsVishnu Purana, Bhagavata Purana, Harivamsa
Genealogy
ChildrenDridhashva, Kapilashva, Chandrashva

Kuvalayasva (Sanskrit: कुवलयाश्व) is a legendary king in Hindu mythology, known for his valor and piety. He is a prominent figure in the Puranas, particularly the Vishnu Purana, the Bhagavata Purana, and the Harivamsa. He was a descendant of Ikshvaku.

Legends

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Kuvalayasva is the son of King Vrihadasva and is known for his heroic deeds. According to the Vishnu Purana, Kuvalayasva, along with his 21,000 sons, set out to vanquish the demon Dhundhu. The battle resulted in the destruction of the demon, but also the loss of all his sons except for three – Dridhashva, Kapilashva, and Chandrashva[1][2].

The tale of Kuvalayasva's battle with Dhundhu is one of his most celebrated legends. Dhundhu was a powerful demon who had performed severe penances and obtained a boon making him nearly invincible. Kuvalayasva, blessed by the sage Uttanka, attacked the demon. The fierce battle led to the demon's defeat and the king earning the title Dhundhumara (slayer of Dhundhu)[3][4].

References

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  1. ^ Wilson 1840, p. 390.
  2. ^ Tagare 1976, p. 340.
  3. ^ Wilson 1840, p. 389.
  4. ^ Mani 1975, p. 455.

Bibliography

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  • Wilson, H.H. (1840). The Vishnu Purana: A System of Hindu Mythology and Tradition. London: John Murray.
  • Tagare, G.V. (1976). The Bhagavata Purana. New Delhi: Motilal Banarsidass.
  • Mani, Vettam (1975). Puranic Encyclopaedia: A Comprehensive Dictionary with Special Reference to the Epic and Puranic Literature. Delhi: Motilal Banarsidass.
  • Dowson, John (1879). A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature. London: Trübner & Co.
  • Bhagavata Purana (2000). Translated by Swami Prabhupada. Mumbai: Bhaktivedanta Book Trust.
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References

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