Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Alaka

Alaka is a mythical city in , renowned as the opulent capital of , the god of wealth and king of the yakshas (nature spirits) and guhyakas. Situated on a peak of the above , it symbolizes ultimate prosperity and divine abundance, serving as Kubera's residence after he was displaced from by his half-brother . The city, also known by names such as Prabhā (splendor), Vasudharā (treasure-land), and Vasusthalī (abode of riches), is depicted in ancient texts as a realm of unparalleled luxury, featuring gem-encrusted lamps that illuminate its palaces and gardens teeming with celestial beings. In narratives like those in the Śivapurāṇa and , Alaka plays a central role in stories of divine intrigue, such as the tale of Purūravas and Urvaśī, and Udayana's conquests, highlighting its role as a guarded under Kubera's watchful eye. Its ethereal setting and association with yakshas underscore themes of hidden wealth and natural guardianship in .

Etymology and nomenclature

Primary names and variants

The primary Sanskrit name for the mythical city is Alaka (अलका), derived from the term alaka, which refers to a "curl" or "lock" of hair and is used metaphorically to evoke and . This nomenclature underscores the city's legendary splendor, often portrayed as a place of unparalleled charm in ancient texts. Common variants include Alakapuri and Alakavati, which append suffixes denoting "city" (puri) or "fortified town" (vati) to the root Alaka, emphasizing its status as an urban abode. Additional epithets such as Prabhā, meaning "splendor" or "radiance," highlight the city's luminous grandeur; Vasudharā, translating to "earth-bearer" or "holder of ," symbolizes its association with abundance and treasures; and Vasusthalī, implying a "place of riches," reinforces themes of prosperity. In classical literature, Alakapuri appears as the city's name in the Mahabharata, where it is described as the opulent residence rivaling divine realms. Similarly, Alakavati (or Alakā) is prominently featured in Kālidāsa's , a fifth-century poem that vividly invokes the city's ethereal beauty through the yakṣa's longing message to his beloved. These variants collectively establish terminological consistency across epic and poetic traditions while adapting to contextual nuances.

Linguistic and cultural origins

The name "Alaka" originates from the verbal root al (अल्), which conveys the meaning "to adorn" or "to beautify," evoking imagery of splendor and ornamentation that aligns with descriptions of the city as a of opulence. This etymological foundation underscores the term's association with aesthetic and material richness in ancient linguistic traditions, where derivatives like alaka also denote a "curl of hair" symbolizing natural elegance and allure. In the context of place names, "Alaka" thus embodies a conceptual link to embellished, prosperous realms, distinct from more utilitarian designations in classical . Culturally, Alaka emerged within Vedic and post-Vedic traditions as an emblem of divine prosperity, deeply intertwined with folklore that portrayed such locales as hidden repositories of wealth and natural bounty. narratives, rooted in early Indo-Aryan texts like the and , elevated these spirits as guardians of subterranean treasures and fertility, infusing Alaka with symbolic layers of abundance and mystical guardianship that resonated across regional mythologies. This portrayal reflects a broader cultural motif of idealized cities as sites of inexhaustible riches, blending reverence for nature's hidden gifts with aspirations for material and spiritual fulfillment. The depiction of Alaka crystallizes in post-Vedic literature such as the around the 4th century BCE, marking a shift toward more elaborate epic formulations. The term exhibits affinities with wealth motifs in pre-Aryan traditions, which emphasized earth-bound prosperity and tutelary deities akin to yakshas, suggesting syncretic influences in southern Indian cultural exchanges. Variant forms such as Alakapuri further highlight this development, extending the name's resonance in later textual adaptations.

Mythological context

Association with Kubera

Kubera, revered as the god of wealth and the supreme king of the Yakshas, serves as the treasurer of the gods, safeguarding the cosmic treasures known as Nidhis. In , he is portrayed as the half-brother of the demon king ; following Ravana's conquest of through boon-granted prowess, Kubera was compelled to abandon his original domain and establish his court in Alaka, a celestial city situated on or near . Kubera's attributes emphasize his role as the guardian of riches, accompanied by legions of Yakshas such as Manibhadra and Guhyaka, as well as personified treasures like the Nidhis Sankha and Padma. He is typically depicted in as a plump, dwarfish figure with a fair complexion, three legs, eight teeth, and one eye, holding a full money-pot (purna-kumbha) in one hand and a —symbolizing the ejection of gold coins—in the other. The theological significance of Alaka underscores its function as an integral extension of Kubera's prosperous realm, a floating of and jewels measuring 100 yojanas in length and 70 in breadth, attended by Apsaras, Gandharvas, and even deities like . This domain contrasts with other divine abodes, such as Indra's , by centering on material abundance and the stewardship of earthly and heavenly wealth, positioning Kubera as a unique (world guardian) in the northern direction.

Founding and historical background

In Hindu mythology, Alaka was founded by Kubera, the god of wealth and king of the yakshas, following his expulsion from Lanka by his half-brother Ravana. According to the Valmiki Ramayana's Uttara Kanda, Ravana, empowered by boons from Brahma, attacked and defeated Kubera, seizing control of Lanka along with Kubera's aerial chariot, the Pushpaka Vimana, thereby forcing Kubera to relinquish his original capital. Kubera then relocated to the Himalayan region near Mount Kailash, establishing Alaka as his new seat of power on Mount Gandhamadana. The establishment of Alaka occurred in the mythological timeline of the , shortly after the events leading to Ravana's rise, as detailed in the . Construction of the city involved divine architects, with Vishwakarma, the celestial builder of the gods, credited in Puranic traditions for creating Alakapuri as a splendid abode befitting Kubera's status, complete with opulent palaces and gardens. This relocation marked Kubera's transition from ruler of Lanka to guardian of northern treasures in the , solidifying his role among the Lokapalas. The city's historical context receives its first major mention in the Mahabharata's (Chapter 275), where it is portrayed as a rebuilt paradise of wealth and splendor, inhabited by yakshas and guarded by supernatural beings, evoking the lost grandeur of but adapted to its mountainous setting. This depiction underscores Alaka's emergence as a symbol of restored divine prosperity in the epic narratives.

Physical description

Architectural features

Alaka, the mythical capital of , is renowned for its opulent , characterized by grand palaces and mansions constructed from divine materials that evoke unparalleled splendor. These structures feature golden frameworks adorned with jewel-encrusted walls that shimmer like , crystal floors reflecting , and towering structures that reach toward , blending architectural majesty with the Himalayan landscape. In Kalidasa's Meghaduta, the city's palaces are depicted as rivaling the grandeur of storm clouds, with mosaic-inlaid floors and towers that seem to embrace the sky, their balconies crafted from embedded with star-like gems. Central to Alaka's architecture is Kubera's residence, an extravagant palace reminiscent of the , the flying chariot originally bestowed upon him by and crafted by the divine architect . This abode symbolizes the god's dominion over wealth. Adjacent key buildings include assembly halls for the yakshas and treasure houses representing Kubera's riches, guarded by supernatural beings. The city's mythical scale amplifies its heavenly allure, harmonizing with surrounding peaks in a display of cosmic opulence.

Natural environment and surroundings

Alaka is situated on a prominent peak of the , in close proximity to , within the northern divine realm associated with Kubera's dominion. This elevated location places the city amidst the majestic Himalayan ranges, where the terrain rises dramatically, offering panoramic views of snow-capped summits and crystalline valleys that underscore its and isolated character in mythological accounts. The River Alakanandā, considered a sacred branch of the , flows through the heart of Alaka, its waters often described as pure and luminous, symbolizing both spiritual purity and the abundance of wealth under 's rule. In lore, is said to have engineered a on this river to ensure a steady supply to the , highlighting its role as a vital lifeline that nourishes the surrounding and integrates seamlessly with the urban . The river's through the evokes imagery of divine prosperity, with its banks lined by natural formations that enhance the ethereal ambiance. The natural terrain of Alaka features lush groves of wish-fulfilling trees known as , which are emblematic of boundless abundance in , alongside expansive parks blooming with eternal flowers that never wilt, including the renowned Caitraratha grove. These verdant areas are complemented by serene lakes filled with nectar-like waters, reminiscent of , providing a of perpetual beauty and fertility. Such flora and water bodies not only define the untamed landscapes encircling the but also reflect the harmonious blend of nature and divinity in its mythological portrayal.

Inhabitants and society

Yakshas and supernatural beings

In , Yakshas are semi-divine nature spirits associated with wealth, fertility, and the natural world, serving as the primary inhabitants of Alaka, the mythical city ruled by , the god of riches. They function as guardians of Kubera's treasures and protectors of the city, often depicted as stout warriors armed with javelins or swords to defend against intruders. Physically, Yakshas are portrayed with robust, pot-bellied figures, bulging eyes, and sometimes protruding fangs, their green-hued complexions symbolizing abundance and the vitality of nature. Alaka is also home to Yakshinis, the female counterparts of Yakshas, who embody fertility and grace as attendants to . Other supernatural beings under 's domain include Gandharvas, celestial musicians skilled in divine arts and performances that entertain the court's assemblies. Apsaras, ethereal nymphs renowned for their beauty and grace, provide entertainment through dance and companionship, enhancing the opulent atmosphere of the city. Additionally, Guhyakas, a class of supernatural beings akin to Yakshas known as "hidden ones," act as secretive attendants and additional guardians of concealed treasures, sharing similar semi-divine traits but emphasizing stealth and mystery. These beings contribute to the hierarchical society of Alaka, where their roles as protectors and entertainers support Kubera's rule, though their organizational functions are further detailed elsewhere.

Social structure and roles

Alaka's society is organized in a strict hierarchy, with Kubera positioned at the apex as the supreme ruler and god of wealth, overseeing all aspects of governance and prosperity from his golden palace. The yakshas constitute the primary military and administrative class, functioning as loyal servants who manage Kubera's vast treasures, enforce defenses, and utilize magical powers such as invisibility to protect the city's riches. Gandharvas and apsaras fulfill cultural and entertainment roles, with gandharvas providing celestial music and apsaras performing graceful dances to entertain and his court during gatherings. These semi-divine beings contribute to the overall harmony, where the focus remains on wealth preservation through disciplined and artistic expression. Customs in Alaka emphasize eternal festivities and unwavering loyalty to as the embodiment of divine order and abundance, reflecting the city's perpetual .

Literary and scriptural references

Mentions in epics

In the Mahabharata's , Alaka is portrayed as the opulent capital of , the lord of treasures and king of the yakshas, situated in the Himalayan region and serving as a residence for gandharvas and other supernatural beings. , from his abode in Alaka, extends divine protection to the exiled , commanding the gandharvas and yakshas there to safeguard them and provide sustenance during their forest wanderings. This assurance underscores Alaka's role as a source of wealth and guardianship, with its inhabitants ensuring the ' needs are met without hindrance. Although is absent, training in celestial weapons under , the narrative integrates Alaka into the ' exile by highlighting encounters with yakshas, who test and aid the heroes, emphasizing the city's mystical wealth and the supernatural trials faced in proximity to such divine realms. The Ramayana's Kishkindha Kanda describes Kubera's residence on Mount Kailasa (identified in the broader epic tradition as ) in the context of his backstory as a refuge after being ousted from by his half-brother . Located on Mount Kailasa in the northern , it features a resplendent mansion crafted by the divine architect , resembling a white cloud and adorned with gold, alongside an expansive lotus-filled lake teeming with swans, partridges, and celestial nymphs. Kubera, known as Vaishravana and son of , king of the yakshas, resides there in prosperity, surrounded by his guhyaka attendants and accompanied by his elephant mount Sarvabhauma. During the search for , Sugriva directs a vanara troop to scour the northern regions including Kailasa and its surrounding caves, linking the city to the epic's quest while portraying it as a haven of abundance inaccessible to ordinary seekers. Across both epics, Alaka functions as an archetypal divine city, exemplifying unparalleled wealth, architectural splendor, and harmony with entities, which starkly contrasts with the mortal realms of strife and exile endured by human protagonists like the and . This portrayal positions Alaka not merely as a geographical but as a symbolic benchmark for opulence and the treasures guarded by yakshas.

Appearances in poetry and

In Kālidāsa's , a seminal lyric poem from the classical period, Alaka serves as the poignant backdrop for the exiled yakṣa's lament in the Pūrvamegha (first half), where he implores a to carry his to his beloved dwelling there. The city is vividly portrayed as a celestial haven of unmatched splendor, nestled amid Himalayan peaks, with ramparts of pure gold shimmering under the sun and crystal-clear lakes adorned with blooming lotuses that attract swarms of bees. Herds of majestic elephants, symbols of royal abundance, are depicted playfully spraying water from the lakes, while moonlit groves filled with fragrant and trees evoke an atmosphere of ethereal romance and profound separation-induced longing. This aesthetic depiction underscores Alaka's role as a motif of idealized prosperity and emotional yearning in kāvya tradition. The Bhāgavata Purāṇa (Fourth , 10) references Alaka in the narrative of Dhruva's invasion, presenting it as a fortified Himalayan valley city teeming with yakṣas, rākṣasas, and Rudra's attendants, whose supernatural defenses—such as illusory deluges, fiery serpents, and rampaging elephants—highlight its mystical allure and inaccessibility. Despite the martial context, the text emphasizes the city's opulent charm, with descriptions of its crowded palaces and enchanted surroundings that blend prosperity with otherworldly peril, reinforcing its status as Kubera's divine capital. Similarly, the Brahmāṇḍa Purāṇa recounts Parashurama's to Kailāsa, where Alaka appears as Kubera's , observed en route to Śiva's abode and evoking awe at its heavenly magnificence. This brief yet evocative mention portrays Alaka as a beacon of wealth and beauty, integral to the sage's devotional journey. Across these works, recurring poetic motifs—such as lotuses symbolizing purity and transience in the city's lakes, elephants embodying strength and affluence as they frolic in waters, and moonlit groves representing nocturnal serenity and romantic isolation—serve to symbolize Alaka's dual essence of material prosperity and spiritual longing, influencing later devotional and aesthetic literature.

Associated legends and events

Dhruva's conquest

In the , Dhruva Mahārāja, a young prince and devoted follower of , launches a against Alakāpurī, the opulent city of the Yakṣas ruled by , following the death of his half-brother Uttama at the hands of a Yakṣa during a hunt in the Himalayan mountains. Overwhelmed by grief and anger, Dhruva, who had previously received blessings from after intense , advances toward the city, sounding his conchshell to signal the attack and engaging an army of 130,000 Yakṣa warriors. The battle unfolds with fierce intensity, as Dhruva unleashes volleys of arrows, slaying thousands of Yakṣas—often three at a time—while shattering their weapons and armor with precision. The Yakṣas counter with a barrage of arrows, spears, and other armaments, temporarily surrounding and overwhelming Dhruva, but he rallies, invoking the protection of Lord Śārṅgadhanvā through the chanting of His holy names, which empowers him to dispel their mystic illusions such as raging storms, torrents of blood, falling mountains, and swarms of serpents. In the climactic phase, Dhruva deploys the nārāyaṇāstra, a supreme weapon crafted by Lord Nārāyaṇa, firing golden-shafted arrows that fragment the Yakṣas into pieces and elevate their souls to higher planetary systems, decimating their forces and causing widespread disruption in Alakāpurī. As the slaughter escalates, Svayambhuva Manu, the progenitor of humanity and Dhruva's grandfather, intervenes alongside other sages, urging Dhruva to cease the violence due to the risk of accruing from unchecked , emphasizing instead the path of and surrender to the Supreme Lord. Heeding this counsel, Dhruva withdraws his weapon, offers obeisances, and calms his rage, allowing the sages to depart. , the lord of wealth and guardian of Alakā, then manifests before , praising his valor and while submitting to him, and grants the boon of unwavering faith and constant remembrance of upon Dhruva's humble request. This episode temporarily disrupts Alakāpurī's splendor, with the city's wealth and Yakṣa inhabitants scattered by the invasion, but order is restored following Kubera's pacification and Dhruva's departure. The narrative underscores the triumph of (pure devotion) over material opulence and power, as Dhruva's divine favor enables him to conquer the realm of riches without personal ambition, ultimately leading to his elevation as the pole star (), a symbol of steadfastness in the .

Visits by sages and deities

In the , , during his pilgrimage to Mount Kailasa to seek Lord 's blessings after his battles, arrives at the city of Alaka, the opulent capital of . He observes the harmonious realm of the Yakshas and proceeds toward 's abode. Alaka's strategic location adjacent to Mount Kailasa, the eternal residence of Lord and , underscores the city's intimate connection to the supreme deity, with 's presence enhancing its sanctity as a northern Himalayan divine enclave. This proximity facilitated occasional interactions between and 's domain, symbolizing a bond of mutual respect among celestial realms. These visits by sages and deities, devoid of any adversarial elements, solidified Alaka's reputation as a serene hub of divine , where spiritual and gods alike found welcome and inspiration, contrasting sharply with more tumultuous events in its history such as Dhruva's earlier .

Cultural significance

Symbolism in

In Hindu traditions, Alaka, the mythical city of , symbolizes boundless prosperity and earthly abundance as the opulent capital guarded by , the lord of treasures. Theologically, Alaka serves as an intermediary realm in , bridging the human world and the divine spheres through its association with the Yakshas, semi-divine nature spirits. This positioning ties Alaka to the of prosperity, where wealth is not merely accumulated but managed as a cosmic to sustain order and support virtuous endeavors across realms. Kubera's rule over Alaka exemplifies this role, portraying the city as a locus of equitable distribution that connects mortal aspirations for abundance with godly benevolence. In rituals such as Puja, performed on auspicious days like or during , Alaka's imagery is evoked to invoke themes of abundance and financial stability. Devotees chant mantras like the Gayatri while offering lotuses, gold, and incense, visualizing the city's radiant treasures to attract prosperity while emphasizing ethical use of wealth in alignment with spiritual growth. This practice reinforces Alaka's symbolic role in fostering a harmonious flow of resources, reminding participants that true invocation seeks not hoarding but generous, detached stewardship.

Depictions in art and modern media

In traditional , Alaka is frequently represented through sculptures and paintings that emphasize its status as Kubera's opulent Himalayan capital, often drawing from literary descriptions in works like Kalidasa's . Rock-cut sculptures in the , particularly in Cave 32 (Indra Sabha), feature a prominent of Kubera seated on an , symbolizing the wealth and guardianship associated with Alaka's mythical grandeur. This 8th-century Jain cave complex highlights Kubera's role as the city's ruler, with intricate carvings of yakshas and attendants evoking the divine city's lush, jewel-adorned architecture. Miniature paintings from the school, produced between the 17th and 19th centuries in the Himalayan foothills, illustrate scenes from , portraying Alaka as a shimmering city of crystal palaces, cascading waterfalls, and verdant gardens inhabited by yakshas and apsaras. These works capture the poem's poetic journey to Alaka, blending delicate natural motifs with ethereal urban elements to convey the city's inaccessibility and splendor. Similarly, 20th-century interpretations, such as Ramgopal Vijaivargiya's series of paintings, depict Alaka's monsoon-drenched landscapes and architectural marvels, using vibrant watercolors to romanticize its mythical allure. In modern media, Alaka appears in illustrated comics and television adaptations of Hindu epics, reinforcing its symbolism as a treasure-filled paradise. The comic Kubera (1978) illustrates the city's relocation to after 's exile from , showing opulent halls and guardians to narrate tales of wealth and divine favor. Ramanand Sagar's iconic TV series Ramayan (1987–1988) includes depictions of and references to Alaka during episodes on Ravana's conquests, portraying it as a celestial realm of prosperity amid the epic's mythological conflicts. Alaka is mythologically associated with as 's abode.

References

  1. [1]
    Alaka, Ālakā, Alakā, Āḷaka, Ala-aka: 31 definitions
    Mar 11, 2025 · Alakā is the capital of Kubera, the chief of the Yakṣas and Guhyakas. It is also called Prabhā, Vasudharā and Vasusthalī and is fabled to be situated on a peak ...
  2. [2]
    (DOC) Origin of the Yakshas - Academia.edu
    Sometimes, Kailash itself is called Kubera's residence. His city is usually called Alaka or Alaka-puri ("curl-city"), but also Prabha ("splendour ...
  3. [3]
  4. [4]
    Introduction to Vasudhārā | Lotsawa House
    Vasudhārā (also spelled Vasudharā), whose name means “stream of gems” or “bearer of treasure,” is a Buddhist goddess associated with wealth, abundance, and ...
  5. [5]
    Alaka city: Significance and symbolism
    Feb 15, 2025 · Alaka city, depicted in Kalidasa's Meghaduta, serves as the stunning capital of Kubera, symbolizing opulence and beauty. It is the backdrop for ...
  6. [6]
  7. [7]
    The Complete List of Dhatus - Sanskrit Root Words and their English ...
    Apr 15, 2020 · A complete list of all dhatus (root words or verb roots) in Sanskrit dictionary and their meanings with corresponding IPA transliteration.
  8. [8]
    Monier-Williams Sanskrit-English Dictionary --अ
    [ alaka ] N. of the capital of Kubera (situated on a peak of the Himālaya inhabited also by Śiva) Lit. Kum. vi , 37 ,. N ...
  9. [9]
  10. [10]
    Yaksha | Demigod, Vedic Rituals & Guardian Spirits - Britannica
    Principal among the yakshas is Kubera, who rules in the mythical Himalayan kingdom called Alaka. Yakshas were often given homage as tutelary deities of a city, ...
  11. [11]
    [PDF] Visualizing Yakshi in the Religious History of Kerala
    Abstract: Yakshi is a female goddess associated with the fertility of earth, love and beauty. She probably originated with the early Dravidians but have ...
  12. [12]
    [PDF] essence of valmiki uttara ramayana - Kamakoti.org
    Sarga One: Maharshis of fame arrived from chaturdishas to Ayodhya and congratulated Shri Rama who in humility thanked them- yet wondered apart from Ravana ...
  13. [13]
  14. [14]
    Chapter 13 - Ravana's Crimes
    Sep 28, 2020 · This page is entitled “ravana's crimes” and represents Chapter 13 of the Uttara-kanda of the Ramayana (English translation by Hari Prasad ...
  15. [15]
    Story of Kubera
    Jan 28, 2019 · Kubera requested his father to get a city built for him to live in, and his father asked him to settle down in Laṅkā built by Maya on top of the ...Missing: Alaka mythology Mahabharata scholarly
  16. [16]
    Lord Kubera – Hindu Gods and Deities - Kuber Golden Temple
    Vishwakarma, the builder of the Gods created a new abode for him called Alaka or Alakapuri in the Himalayas. Alakapuri was in close proximity to Mount Kailash, ...Missing: architects | Show results with:architects
  17. [17]
    Kalidasa: Shakuntala and Other Works: The Cloud-Messenger
    From Shiva's crescent bathes the palaces in light. VIII. hinting at the ... In golden sands at hunt-the-pearl they play, Bury their little fists, and ...
  18. [18]
    Kubera | Hinduism, Wealth, Imagery, Mythology, Yakshas ...
    Oct 16, 2025 · Kubera is a Hindu god of wealth and the king of yakshas (nature spirits). He is said to dwell in the majestic city of Alaka in the Himalayas ...
  19. [19]
    Abode of Kubera: Significance and symbolism
    Sep 23, 2024 · The Abode of Kubera in Hinduism symbolizes a metaphorical realm of wealth and prosperity, linked to Kubera's residence on Pishacaka mountain and ...
  20. [20]
    Alakā - Oxford Academic - Oxford University Press
    Alakā | The Cloud of Longing: A New Translation and Eco-Aesthetic Study of Kalidasa's Meghaduta | Oxford Academic.
  21. [21]
  22. [22]
  23. [23]
    Yaksha: Significance and symbolism
    Oct 31, 2025 · In Jainism, Yaksha refers to divine beings or spirits. These entities are often associated with prestige, support, and a blissful afterlife.Missing: folklore | Show results with:folklore
  24. [24]
    Kubera – Vyasa Mahabharata - Vyasaonline
    Kubera is one of the four Dikpalakas - the others being Indra, Yama and Varuna. He is also the lord of wealth.
  25. [25]
    Guhyaka, Guhyakā: 20 definitions - Wisdom Library
    Oct 24, 2024 · Note: Guhyaka, literally “hidden beings”, are Demi-Gods who, like the Yakṣas, are the attendants of Kubera and guardians of his hidden treasure ...Missing: mythology | Show results with:mythology
  26. [26]
    Yaksha-king: Significance and symbolism
    Sep 25, 2024 · Yaksha-king in Hinduism often signifies Kubera, the ruler of Alaka, who embodies wealth and abundance, highlighting his role as a guardian of ...
  27. [27]
    Kubera, Ku-vera, Kuberā, Kuvera: 56 definitions - Wisdom Library
    Aug 27, 2025 · Kubera (कुबेर) refers to one of the “directional deities” (lokeśa), whose iconographic details are discussed in chapter 28 of the Ādikāṇḍa of ...Missing: original | Show results with:original
  28. [28]
    Description of Mythical Beings in the Kathasaritsagara
    Nov 13, 2024 · Yakshas are the servants of the gods frequently connected with portals. 345 Kubera, the god of riches, is the king of these mythical-beings.Missing: characteristics | Show results with:characteristics
  29. [29]
  30. [30]
    The Mahabharata, Book 3: Vana Parva: Tirtha-yatra Parva: ... | Sacred Texts Archive
    ### Summary of Mentions Related to Alaka, Kubera, Wealth, Yakshas, and Arjuna/Pandavas
  31. [31]
    Kishkindha Kanda - Sarga 43 - Valmiki Ramayana
    Nov 4, 2024 · Ravana is a brother of Kubera and the aircraft of Kubera, namely Pushpaka, is seized from this very Kubera. Thus, there is every chance to hide ...
  32. [32]
    Alaka: Significance and symbolism
    Jun 20, 2025 · In Hinduism, Alaka is interpreted as both Kubera's capital, the lord of Yakshas, and a celestial realm where Pururavas and Urvashi enjoyed their ...
  33. [33]
    Meghadutam of Kalidasa with Sanskrit Commentary and English ...
    Oct 25, 2010 · Meghaduta (literally meaning “cloud messenger”) is a lyric poem written by Kalidasa, considered to be one of the greatest Sanskrit poets in India.
  34. [34]
    Chapter 10 - Dhruva invades Alakā
    Aug 14, 2022 · This page describes Dhruva invades Alaka which is chapter 10 of the English translation of the Bhagavata Purana, one of the eighteen major ...
  35. [35]
    Parashurama going to Kailasha and encountering Ganesha
    At Kailasha he first saw the city of Alaka (of Kubera). Then he visited the abode of Lord Shiva. There was a great Banyan Tree with cool shade.
  36. [36]
    Kalidasa's Meghadutam: A Graceful Presentation of Personified and ...
    The descriptions of rivers, mountains, and flora emphasize the interconnectedness between love and the natural world. ... The description of the route to Alaka by ...<|separator|>
  37. [37]
  38. [38]
    Dhruva Mahārāja Leaves Home for the Forest - Vedabase
    Although he is unborn and is the chief of all living creatures, he is situated in that exalted post because of the mercy of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, ...
  39. [39]
  40. [40]
  41. [41]
    Chapter 41 - The narrative of Bhārgava Paraśurāma (e)
    Jun 21, 2019 · This page describes the narrative of bhargava parashurama (e) which is Chapter 41 of the English translation of the Brahmanda Purana.
  42. [42]
    Kubera - Dharmavidya
    Alakā, Kubera's celestial city, symbolizes a realm of abundant order, where wealth is both earned and deserved. Meditating on Kubera in this form guides the ...
  43. [43]
    Kubera - The King of Yaksha and God of Wealth - Vedansh Craft
    Oct 10, 2023 · In Valmiki's epic Ramayana, Kubera's wealth is associated with the kingdom of Lanka, ruled by his half-brother Ravana. Ravana's desire for ...Missing: Alaka founding
  44. [44]
    The 14 Lokas: Indian Mythology's Map of the Universe - Mythlok
    Bhuvar Loka: Bhuvar Loka is the realm of semi-divine beings such as the Gandharvas, Yakshas, and celestial spirits. This Loka acts as an intermediary between ...
  45. [45]
  46. [46]
    Kubera-The Wealthy Guardian of Prosperity - SculpturePedia
    He is often depicted as the lord of wealth and the ruler of the mythical realm of Alaka, which is said to be a city of immense beauty and opulence. Kubera is ...
  47. [47]
    Meghdoot : a Kalidas masterpiece painted by Ramgopal Vijaivargiya
    Jul 15, 2019 · These paintings by Ramgopal Vijaivargiya remind you of a monsoon tale of romance - 'Meghdoot', penned by the 4th century poet, Kalidas.
  48. [48]
  49. [49]
    kuber and his swarna lanka - Enroute Indian History
    Jul 13, 2023 · ... Alaka, the capital of Kuber on the Himalayas. Brahma then granted ... The Siva Purana: Part I. Motilal Banarsidass Publishers Pvt. Ltd ...