In the vast landscape of Hindu mythology, gods take countless forms and meanings shift like flowing rivers. Navagunjara stands out as one of the most mysterious and mesmerising avatars. Imagine a being made from nine different animals. Each animal is a powerful symbol. They combine into a single form that defies logic and radiates spiritual depth. This isn’t just myth; it’s a metaphor for the divine’s complexity, the unity of opposites, and the challenge of perception.
Navagunjara is rarely known outside Odisha. It appears only in the Odia Mahabharata. This epic was written by poet Sarala Dasa. In it, Navagunjara plays a powerful role in Arjuna’s spiritual journey. It is said to be a form of Lord Vishnu or Krishna. Like the virat-rupa seen in the Bhagavad Gita, it leaves a lasting impression. This is not just on the warrior prince, but on anyone who encounters this legend.
In this blog, we’ll explore what Navagunjara is. We will examine where it came from. We’ll discuss what it means. Finally, we will explore why it still matters today—from temple carvings in Puri to modern artwork and meditation. Whether you’re a mythology buff, an artist, or a spiritual seeker, Navagunjara offers a rich, layered symbol worth understanding.
Navagunjara: A Divine Puzzle of Nine Forms
Navagunjara is a unique and lesser-known avatar of Lord Vishnu or Lord Krishna. It is found exclusively in the Odia retelling of the Mahabharata by the 15th-century poet Sarala Dasa. This avatar does not appear in the Sanskrit version of the Mahabharata. Therefore, it is a treasured symbol of Odisha’s regional spiritual heritage.
The name Navagunjara comes from two Sanskrit words:
- “Nava” meaning nine, and
- “Gunjara” loosely translated as form or creature.
Together, they describe a being made up of nine different creatures. These creatures are fused into one incredible composite form. This form is unlike any other deity or divine manifestation in Hindu mythology.
The Nine Forms That Make Navagunjara
Navagunjara is typically described as having:
- 🐓 The head of a rooster – representing alertness and divine awakening
- 🦚 The neck of a peacock – symbolizing beauty, grace, and the arts
- 🐂 The hump of a bull – denoting strength and stability
- 🦁 The waist of a lion – signifying courage and power
- 🐘 One leg of an elephant – for wisdom and memory
- 🐅 One leg of a tiger – raw strength and speed
- 🦌 One leg of a deer or horse – gentleness or motion
- 🐍 The tail of a serpent – representing regeneration, time, and mystery
- 🖐️ One human arm holding a lotus or chakra (wheel) – indicating divine consciousness and action
Each of these elements is deeply symbolic, combining attributes of animals revered in Hindu belief systems. When united, they represent the entire spectrum of life, creation, destruction, and transcendence—making Navagunjara a “form beyond form”.
The Story: Arjuna’s Encounter with Navagunjara
Among the many divine encounters in Hindu epics, the story of Arjuna and Navagunjara is notable. It stands out for its surreal symbolism and deep spiritual message.
The Setting: Arjuna in Meditation
The story unfolds during a period when Arjuna is practicing intense penance. He is one of the five Pandava brothers and a master archer. He seeks divine weapons from Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. This episode parallels the more famous incident where Arjuna receives the Pashupatastra. However, it introduces a unique and regional vision of divine revelation.
Arjuna is in a state of deep meditation on a mountain or forested hill. Suddenly, he is disturbed by a creature that defies imagination. A bizarre being approaches with a blend of multiple animal parts. This creature is none other than Navagunjara, a form of Lord Vishnu or Krishna.
The Vision: A Creature of Nine Parts
As Arjuna opens his eyes, he sees before him:
- The head of a rooster, sharp and alert
- A peacock’s neck, curved and graceful
- A bull’s hump, solid and strong
- The torso of a lion, majestic and powerful
- Legs from an elephant, tiger, and deer or horse—each stepping with its own gait
- A serpent’s tail, slithering behind
- And most astonishing of all: a human arm, extended outward, holding a lotus or, in some retellings, a chakra (divine wheel)
This extraordinary figure was not just walking—it was gliding across time, space, and reason. It looked both fearsome and divine, grotesque yet graceful.
Arjuna’s Reaction: From Fear to Devotion
At first, Arjuna instinctively reaches for his bow, ready to defend himself. The warrior within him sees a potential threat. But something stops him.
He notices the lotus held in the human hand—a divine symbol of purity, transcendence, and enlightenment. Suddenly, the confusion clears. His fear melts into reverence. Arjuna realizes that this is no ordinary creature—this is Vishnu himself, in an unimaginable form.
He puts down his bow. He kneels. He bows.
The Divine Message
Though Navagunjara never speaks, its presence conveys profound truths:
- The Divine is not always recognizable in conventional forms
- Spiritual realization requires openness, humility, and surrender
- Wisdom may come in unexpected, even uncomfortable forms
This moment is Arjuna’s personal revelation. It is much like the Virat Rupa (universal form) of Krishna he later witnesses during the Bhagavad Gita. However, Navagunjara is more grounded in the natural world. It uses animal archetypes familiar to ancient Indian society. Each is loaded with spiritual and symbolic meaning.
A Turning Point in Arjuna’s Journey
The encounter with Navagunjara represents a turning point in Arjuna’s inner development. It reinforces his role as a spiritual seeker, not just a warrior. It reminds him—and us—that the path to divine knowledge isn’t always lined with clarity or beauty. Sometimes, it’s layered, ambiguous, and complex.
This also mirrors the Mahabharata’s central theme: dharma (righteousness) isn’t always black and white—just like Navagunjara’s composite form.
Cultural Significance of Navagunjara
Navagunjara is not just a mythological curiosity. It is a vibrant symbol deeply embedded in the cultural, artistic, and spiritual fabric of Odisha, India. Its influence spans centuries, blending folklore, religious worship, traditional arts, and even everyday cultural expressions. Let’s explore how this extraordinary avatar of Vishnu has left an indelible mark across different spheres of Odishan life.
Navagunjara in Pattachitra Art: The Canvas of Myth
One of the most vivid celebrations of Navagunjara is found in Pattachitra, the traditional scroll painting style native to Odisha. Pattachitra artists from renowned villages like Raghurajpur depict Navagunjara with meticulous detail and vibrant colors. They often portray the composite creature in dynamic poses.
- Why Pattachitra? This art form is known for its intricate line work. It features bold colors derived from natural dyes. The themes are rooted in Hindu mythology and folklore.
- Navagunjara as a motif symbolizes the union of nature, spirituality, and the cosmos—all central themes in Pattachitra.
- These paintings are not just decorative. They serve as tools of storytelling and spiritual education. They bring the legend of Navagunjara to life for villagers and collectors alike.
Temple Architecture: Stone Stories in Puri
Navagunjara’s influence extends beyond paintings into sacred architecture. The Jagannath Temple in Puri, one of Hinduism’s most important pilgrimage sites. Features the stone carvings of Navagunjara that narrate its mythic importance.
- Location: The northern wall of the temple bears a detailed sculpture of Navagunjara.
- Nila Chakra (Blue Wheel): Atop the temple’s spire, the Nila Chakra symbolizes Vishnu’s cosmic energy. It has eight small Navagunjara carvings facing the cardinal directions.
- These sculptures are more than decoration. They are protective talismans. They embody cosmic order and divine guardianship over the temple and its devotees.
Navagunjara in Folk Culture: The King of Ganjifa Cards
In Odisha’s traditional card game, Ganjifa, which dates back centuries, Navagunjara holds a special place.
- Role: Navagunjara is often depicted as the King card, symbolizing supreme power and spiritual authority.
- Arjuna as Minister: In these card sets, Arjuna is usually portrayed as the minister. This portrayal emphasizes the mythological link between the two characters.
- This reflects the deep respect for Navagunjara in everyday life and entertainment, blending mythology with social rituals.
Modern Influence and Revival
Today, Navagunjara continues to inspire:
- Contemporary Artists: Many modern painters and sculptors reinterpret Navagunjara, blending traditional themes with modern aesthetics.
- Textile and Crafts: Its imagery appears on saris, fabrics, and crafts sold globally, spreading Odisha’s cultural footprint.
- Spiritual Practice: Meditation and storytelling around Navagunjara help seekers embrace complexity and spiritual unity.
Symbolism & Spiritual Meaning
The Navagunjara avatar is not just a mythological curiosity—it is a powerful spiritual symbol layered with philosophical depth. In Hinduism, where forms are often used to express the formless, Navagunjara vividly represents cosmic unity. It illustrates the complexity of the divine. Navagunjara also symbolizes the journey of inner awakening..
This extraordinary nine-formed being is a visual metaphor for divinity that transcends logic. Let’s explore the profound symbolism hidden within each aspect of Navagunjara.
Unity in Diversity: Nine Creatures, One Consciousness
The most striking feature of Navagunjara is its composition of nine distinct beings:
- Rooster (Head) – Symbolizes wakefulness, spiritual vigilance, and the call to awareness.
- Peacock (Neck) – Denotes beauty, ego transformation, and spiritual elegance.
- Bull (Hump) – Represents steadfastness, labor, and earthly grounding.
- Lion (Torso/Waist) – Stands for royalty, courage, and the power of dharma.
- Elephant (One leg) – A sign of wisdom, intellect, and memory.
- Tiger (One leg) – Embodies strength, willpower, and speed.
- Deer or Horse (One leg) – Deer represents grace and gentleness; horse implies energy and spiritual drive.
- Serpent (Tail) – Symbol of time, transformation, and the cyclical nature of life.
- Human Arm Holding a Lotus or Chakra – Represents conscious action, divine intervention, and spiritual balance.
Together, they symbolize the integration of all living energies—instinct and reason, grace and strength, mind and body—within the divine.
The Form Beyond Form: Breaking the Limits of the Mind
The strange yet harmonious combination of animals in Navagunjara challenges conventional understanding of what divinity “should” look like. It breaks down rigid ideas of beauty, order, and familiarity.
- This is a visual representation of the “Virat Rupa”—the universal form of the divine as described in the Bhagavad Gita.
- But unlike the cosmic form filled with countless deities and arms, Navagunjara is a grounded version. It represents the diversity of the natural world.
- It serves as a reminder that the divine can appear in any form. True seekers must look beyond appearances to recognize truth.
This is why Arjuna initially reacts with fear—he sees something that defies his understanding. Only when he recognizes the divine symbols (like the lotus) does he accept the vision’s truth.
A Symbol of the Cosmic Self (Virat Purusha)
In Vedantic philosophy, the universe is seen as a single, living being, often described as Virat Purusha or cosmic person. Navagunjara is a symbolic portrayal of this idea:
- It embodies the diversity of creation while representing a unified divine consciousness.
- Just as every part of nature has its place, every part of Navagunjara reflects an essential cosmic function.
This makes Navagunjara a spiritual diagram in motion—a walking mandala of the universe.
Why Navagunjara Still Matters Today
We live in an age dominated by technology, fast-paced lifestyles, and black-and-white thinking. In this context, ancient myths like that of Navagunjara may seem distant. They might also appear abstract. Yet, this composite form of Lord Vishnu—built from nine vastly different beings—feels more relevant today than ever.
Navagunjara is not just a story from the past. It is a timeless symbol of inner truth. It also embodies diversity and spiritual vision. Its deep meanings resonate across modern life—philosophically, socially, psychologically, and artistically.
1. A Spiritual Symbol for Unity in Diversity
We live in a world where people, communities, and nations are grappling with differences—of belief, race, gender, and ideology. Navagunjara, composed of nine beings from different natural realms, reminds us that true strength lies in unity.
- The elephant, tiger, serpent, rooster—each represents a force that is different, even opposing.
- Yet, in Navagunjara, they coexist harmoniously, forming a singular divine presence.
This reflects the non-dual philosophy of Vedanta, where the seemingly opposite aspects of reality are just parts of one whole. In a multicultural, pluralistic world, Navagunjara offers a spiritual blueprint for harmony without uniformity.
2. A Psychological Metaphor for Inner Balance
In modern psychology, the integration of the shadow self—our hidden fears, instincts, and strengths—is seen as essential for growth. Navagunjara can be interpreted as a symbol of the integrated self:
- The lion may represent courage
- The serpent, our primal energy or subconscious
- The human arm, conscious thought and choice
- The lotus, spiritual aspiration
Navagunjara’s unusual form mirrors our own inner complexity. It teaches that true enlightenment requires embracing all aspects of the self—not just the pretty or socially acceptable ones.
3. A Cultural Treasure Still Inspiring Artists & Thinkers
From traditional Pattachitra paintings in Odisha to contemporary reinterpretations in digital art, Navagunjara continues to inspire creators worldwide.
- Artists love it for its surreal structure—making it a favorite subject for spiritual illustrations, sculpture, and tattoo art.
- Storytellers and educators use it to introduce complex philosophical ideas through a visually arresting and symbolic narrative.
As Indian art and mythology gain global popularity, Navagunjara is becoming an emblem of spiritual surrealism. It is similar to the way dragons, unicorns, and phoenixes operate in Western imagination.
4. A Guide for Modern Spiritual Seekers
For spiritual seekers today—across all traditions—Navagunjara offers practical lessons:
| Lesson | Modern Relevance |
|---|---|
| Don’t fear what you don’t understand | Encourages curiosity over judgment |
| Embrace complexity | Life is not black-and-white |
| See the divine in the strange | Spiritual awakening often comes unexpectedly |
| Bow before mystery | Letting go of ego allows true perception |
This is especially meaningful in an era of spiritual consumerism, where people seek answers in neat formulas. Navagunjara teaches surrender, mystery, and wonder.
5. A Symbol of Odisha’s Spiritual Identity
For people of Odisha, Navagunjara is a cultural cornerstone. It reflects the state’s unique contributions to Indian mythology, separate from mainstream Hindu narratives.
- Through the works of Sarala Dasa, Jagannath Temple carvings, and village art traditions, Navagunjara affirms Odisha’s deep spiritual imagination.
- As regional stories gain national and global attention, Navagunjara is emerging as a symbol of regional pride and pan-Indian spirituality.
Why Navagunjara Endures
Despite its mythological origins, Navagunjara speaks to today’s world with clarity and relevance. It teaches:
- That complexity is divine
- That we must integrate all aspects of ourselves
- That diversity can coexist harmoniously
- That wisdom often requires surrender and humility
In a time when we seek both inner balance and outer peace, Navagunjara offers a visionary reminder. The divine is not always what we expect. It is always present, always whole, and always worthy of reverence.
Where to See or Buy Navagunjara Art
Navagunjara is more than myth—it’s a living symbol deeply embedded in Odisha’s culture, art, and religious life. If you’re fascinated by this composite avatar of Vishnu and wish to see it in person, here’s where to begin. Or perhaps you want to own a piece of it.
Whether you’re an art lover, collector, spiritual practitioner, or cultural traveler, here’s a detailed guide. It shows where to see authentic Navagunjara artwork, buy it, or support it. This includes works from temple carvings to traditional scroll paintings.
1. Where to See Navagunjara in Real Life
Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha
- The Navagunjara form is carved on the northern side of the Jagannath Temple. It is one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage sites.
- It is not part of the main shrine. The intricate sculpture can be seen on the temple’s walls. It represents its deep integration into the Jagannath tradition.
- Location: Grand Road, Puri, Odisha
- Note: Only Hindus are allowed inside the main sanctum, but the artwork may be visible from the exterior structures.
Konark Sun Temple (Nearby)
- The Navagunjara is not directly part of the Konark Sun Temple. Nearby artisan villages and museums often display it in connected iconography. This is due to shared stylistic roots.
Odisha State Museum, Bhubaneswar
- Home to ancient manuscripts, temple relics, and stone sculptures that reflect Sarala Dasa’s era and symbolism.
- Some exhibits depict mythological animals and forms like Navagunjara in mixed mediums.
2. Where to Buy Navagunjara Art
Raghurajpur Heritage Crafts Village
- Just 10 km from Puri, this village is internationally renowned for Pattachitra painting, a 1,000-year-old traditional art form.
- Navagunjara is a favorite subject here, often painted on:
- Scrolls and canvas
- Palm leaves (talapatra chitra)
- Decorative items like bookmarks, lampshades, and coasters
Artisans and Handicraft Fairs
- Look for Navagunjara-themed art at:
- Delhi Haat (New Delhi)
- Surajkund Mela (Haryana)
- India Craft Week
- Ekamra Haat (Bhubaneswar)
These events support government-certified artisans from Odisha and often feature original Navagunjara works with authenticity certificates.
3. Where to Buy Navagunjara Art Online
Govt-Backed & Authentic Platforms
- India Craft Village: Offers traditional Pattachitra with detailed mythological themes.
- Odisha Handloom and Handicrafts (Boyanika): State-run store with ethical sourcing.
- CRAFTVILLA, Gaatha, World Art Community: Known for original artisan work.
Tips for Buying Authentic Navagunjara Art
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Buy directly from artisans or certified co-ops | Ensures fair pay and authenticity |
| Look for hand-painted details, not prints | Original Pattachitra uses natural colors |
| Ask for artist info or certificate | Helps trace cultural heritage |
| Support during Odisha crafts exhibitions | Seasonal sales often include rare pieces |
Bonus: Support Digital Artists Too
Modern Indian illustrators on platforms like Instagram, Etsy, and Behance are reimagining Navagunjara in:
- Tattoo designs
- NFT art
- Digital wallpapers
- Stylized Hindu avatar posters
Supporting them helps keep this sacred motif alive in new mediums.
References & Further Reading
- Navagunjara – Wikipedia
Describes Navagunjara as a mythical creature composed of nine different animals in Hinduism. It is considered an astral form of the god Vishnu or Krishna. The animal is a common motif in the Pata-Chitra style of painting from Odisha. It is considered a variant of the virat-rupa form of Krishna, as mentioned in the Bhagavad Gita. - Interesting facts about Navagunjara Besa of Lord Vishnu | OdiaLive
Highlights the appearance of Navagunjara in the Odia Mahabharata. Describes its depiction in Pattachitra paintings. Mentions its representation in Ganjifa playing cards. Discusses the Navagunjara-Arjuna scene sculpted at the Jagannath Temple in Puri. - Navagunjara: Unveiling the Divine Tapestry of Hindu Spirituality | Journal
Explores Navagunjara as a variant of the virat-rupa of Krishna. Discusses its role in Arjuna’s spiritual journey. Highlights its depiction in art and architecture, such as Pata-Chitra paintings and sculptures on the Jagannath Temple. - Navagunjar – Interesting depictions in Indian art | historyreads
Discusses the depiction of Navagunjara in Indian art. Mentions its presence in the Nila Chakra disc atop the Jagannath Temple. Highlights its representation in Pattachitra paintings and Ganjifa playing cards. - Navagunjara – A nine-part Animal in Oriya Mahabharata – Navgunjara | Hindu Blog.
Describes the appearance of Navagunjara in the Oriya Mahabharata. Provides details about its composite form of nine different animals. Discusses Arjuna’s encounter with Navagunjara and his realization of its divine nature.
Final Thought
In a world that often seeks clarity through separation, Navagunjara stands as a radiant reminder of divine unity in diversity. This extraordinary form, woven together from nine distinct beings, challenges our perception of the sacred, the beautiful, and the true.
It’s more than just a mythological moment or artistic motif. It’s a living symbol of spiritual integration, regional wisdom, and timeless wonder. Whether it’s through ancient verses, temple carvings, or a Pattachitra scroll, Navagunjara invites us to pause. It urges us to reflect and see the divine in the most unexpected forms.
Just as Arjuna lowered his bow in awe, we too are reminded to bow. We must humble ourselves before the mysteries we do not yet understand. We are encouraged to embrace the complexity of our inner world. We must recognize that spiritual truth is not always symmetrical—it is often wild, inclusive, and astonishing.
So whether you’re a seeker, a student, an artist, or simply curious—let the story of Navagunjara awaken your imagination. It can deepen your understanding of Indian mythology. It may inspire you to look for the sacred in every shape life takes.
