Jambudvipa

Jambudvipa (जम्बुद्वीप), meaning "the land of Jambu trees," is a name for the Indian
subcontinent in ancient Indian cosmologies, particularly within Hinduism, Buddhism, and
Jainism, representing the realm where ordinary human beings live.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Meaning:
"Jambudvipa" literally translates to "the land of Jambu trees" (where "jambu" refers to a specific
tree, possibly a type of plum, and "dvipa" means "island" or "continent").
Cosmological Significance:
In ancient Indian cosmogony, Jambudvipa is considered the terrestrial world, the continent
where human beings reside.
Geographical Representation:
The shape of Jambudvipa is described as an almost equilateral triangle, with the northern part
broad and tapering to a narrow breadth in the south, resembling the Indian subcontinent.
Historical Context:
The term "Jambudvipa" was used by Ashoka to represent his realm in the third century BCE.
Jainism:
In Jainism, Jambudvipa is the realm of human life, where the Tirthankaras preach the Jain
doctrine and where practice of austerities and liberation is possible.
Other Names:
Other names for the Indian subcontinent include Bharatavarsha (India).
Jambudvipa in Jainism:
In Jain cosmology, Jambudvipa is the realm of human life, where the Tirthankaras preach the
Jain doctrine and where practice of austerities and liberation is possible.
Jambudvipa in Buddhism:
In Buddhism, Jambudvipa is the continent where the Buddhas appear to save the people.
Jambudvipa in Hinduism:
In Hinduism, Jambudvipa is described as a continent with nine zones (varshas) and eight
significant mountains (parvatas).
Mount Meru:
At the center of Jambudvipa, in the Ila-vrta or Meruvarsha zone, lies Mount Meru, the king of
mountains.
Jambunadi:
The river of juice formed from the rotten fruits of the Jambu tree is called Jambunadi and flows
through Jambudvipa.

BHULOKHA
In Hindu cosmology, "Bhuloka" (भूलोक) literally means "the earth-world" and is the first of the
three lokas (worlds), where humans reside and experience karma.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Meaning:
Bhuloka refers to the earth, the realm where humans live and perform actions (karma) that
determine their future experiences.
Place in the Lokas:
Bhuloka is considered the first of the three lokas, with Bhuvarloka (the mid-region) and Svarloka
(heaven) being the other two, higher worlds.
Alternative Enumeration:
Sometimes, the lokas are enumerated as fourteen, with Bhuloka situated in the middle, having
six lokas above and seven below.
Structure of Bhuloka:
The surface of Bhuloka is described as a lotus leaf, consisting of seven continents (dvīpas)
arranged in concentric circles around the central landmass called Jambudvīpa.
Other Dvīpas:
The other dvīpas include Plakṣa, Sālmala, Kuśa, Krauñca, Sāka, and Puṣkara.
Plakṣa
In the context of Hindu cosmology, "Plakṣa" (प्लक्ष) refers to a specific continent or "dvipa"
in the seven-continent model, and also to a type of waved-leaf fig tree (Ficus infectoria).
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Plakṣa as a Continent (Dvipa):
The concept of seven continents (dvipa) is a mythological and symbolic representation, not a
literal geographical one.
Plakṣadvipa is one of these seven continents, along with Jambudvipa, Salmala, Kusa,
Krauncha, Shaka, and Pushkara.
The text asserts that the four varnas of Plakṣadvīpa are the Āryakas, Kuraras, Viviṃsas and
Bhāvins, respectively equivalent to the Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Shudras of
Jambudvipa.
The primary religion of Plakṣadvīpa is said to the worship of Krishna in the form of Soma.
Plakṣa as a Tree (Ficus infectoria):
"Plakṣa" also refers to the waved-leaf fig-tree, a large and beautiful tree with small white fruit.
It is mentioned in the Atharvaveda and the Taittirīya-saṃhitā along with the Nyagrodha and the
Parṇa.
Its name is altered in the latter Saṃhitā to Prakṣa for the sake of an etymology.
It is also mentioned in the Brāhmaṇas.
Sālmala
In Vedic cosmology, the Sālmala continent (Sālmala-dvīpa) is one of the seven major continents
surrounding the central continent of Jambudvipa, and is located to the north of the Jambudvipa.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Vedic Cosmology:
The Srimad Bhagavatam, a Hindu scripture, describes a complex cosmology with a central
landmass (Jambudvipa) surrounded by seven continents and seven oceans.
Location:
The Sālmala continent is situated to the north of the central Jambudvipa.
Other Continents:
Along with Sālmala, the other continents mentioned in this cosmology are Kuśa, Krauñca, Sāka,
and Puṣkara.
Oceans:
These continents are surrounded by oceans, creating a layered structure of the world in this
Vedic view.
Kuśa
seven continents (saptadvīpa) described in the Purānas, specifically the fourth continent,
surrounded by an ocean of ghee, and notable for its vast size and seven mountains of precious
gems.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Location in Hindu Cosmology:
Kuśadvīpa is one of the seven continents, located above the seven pātālas (underworlds) and
encircled by seven concentric oceans.
Size and Features:
It's described as being twice the size of Shalmala and containing seven mountains of precious
gems.
Name Origin:
The continent is named after the Kuśa grass (Desmostachya bipinnata) found within it.
Other Names:
Kuśa is also known as Kuśadvīpa or Kusha-dvipa.
Significance:
Kushadvipa is a place where Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva are worshipped, and it is governed by
various deities.
Geographic Features:
It has unique geographic features and extends considerably in size.
Other Continents:
The other six continents are Jambudvipa, Plaksha, Shalmali, Krauncha, Shaka, and Pushkara.
Oceans:
The oceans surrounding the continents are described as containing sugarcane juice, wine,
ghee, curds, milk, and sweet water.
Kuśa grass:
Kuśa grass is also known as Darbha and Pavitram, and is of literary and ritual significance in
Hinduism.
Krauñca
In ancient Hindu cosmology, Krauncha is one of the seven continents (Sapta-Dvipa) described
in the Puranas, specifically the Bhagavata Purana, and is said to be surrounded by an ocean of
milk.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Sapta-Dvipa:
The Puranas describe the Earth as being divided into seven continents, or Dvipas, each with
unique features and surrounded by specific oceans.
Krauncha's Place:
Krauncha is the fifth of these continents, following Jambu, Plaksha, Shalmali, and Kusha.
Surrounding Ocean:
Krauncha is said to be encircled by the ocean of milk, also known as Kshira Sagara.
Other Continents:
The other continents are Jambudvipa, Plaksadvipa, Salmalidvipa, Kusadvipa, Sakadvipa and
Pushkaradvipa.
Symbolic Nature:
These descriptions are considered symbolic and part of ancient Indian cosmology rather than
literal geography.
Cultural Significance:
The Seven Dvipas have significant cultural and religious importance, appearing in cosmological
contexts and epics.
Sāka
The "Sāka continent" refers to a landmass mentioned in the Bhagavata Purana, one of the
seven ancient continents called Sapta-Dvipa, alongside Jambu, Plaksha, Salmala, Kusha,
Krauncha, and Pushkara.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Sapta-Dvipa:
The Bhagavata Purana describes a world comprised of seven continents, known as Sapta-
Dvipa.
Sāka as one of the seven:
Sāka is one of these seven continents, along with Jambu, Plaksha, Salmala, Kusha, Krauncha,
and Pushkara.
Possible Location:
Some interpretations suggest Sāka could be identified with Malaya, Siam, Indo-China, and
Southern China, or the southeastern part of the landmass where Jambūdvīpa (the main
continent) is located.
Parākhya-tantra:
According to the Parākhya-tantra, the continent Sāka is described as the location of the great
Śāka tree, where Indra placed a band around it due to its length.
Saka people:
The term "Saka" also refers to a group of nomadic people of Iranic Scythian origin who migrated
from Central Asia into the northwestern Indian subcontinent.
Puṣkara
In Jain cosmology, Puṣkara-dvīpa (पुष्करद्वीप) is the third continent of the middle world,
also known as the "Two and a Half Continents" (Aḍhāī-dvīpa), where human beings can live,
specifically the inner half of the third continent.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Jain Cosmology:
Jain cosmology depicts the universe as a vast, layered structure with three worlds: the lower
world, the middle world (madhya-loka), and the upper world.
Two and a Half Continents:
The middle world consists of concentric rings of continents and oceans, with the "Two and a
Half Continents" (Aḍhāī-dvīpa) being the area where human beings can be born and live.
Puṣkara-dvīpa:
Puṣkara-dvīpa is the third continent in this sequence, with only its inner half being part of the
"Two and a Half Continents" where humans can live.
Mānuṣottara-parvata:
The outer edge of Puṣkara-dvīpa is marked by a mountain barrier called Mānuṣottara-parvata
(Mountain beyond Mankind), beyond which human beings cannot live.
Other Continents:
The other continents in the "Two and a Half Continents" are Jambū-dvīpa (the central continent)
and Dhātakīkhaṇḍa (the second continent).

The seven oceans

1. Ocean of Salt water
In Hindu mythology, the ocean of salt water, often referred to as "Kshara-Arnav" or "Lavana
Samudra," represents a vast, saline body of water that delineates realms, embodies divine
contrasts, and symbolizes purification, serving as a significant geographical and spiritual
reference.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Symbolism:
Delineation of Realms: The salt ocean acts as a boundary between different worlds or planes of
existence.
Divine Contrasts: It often contrasts with the "Kshira Sagara" (ocean of milk), which is associated
with nectar and immortality, highlighting the duality of existence.
Purification: The salt water is sometimes seen as a purifying agent, used in rituals and
ceremonies.
Geographical and Spiritual Reference: The ocean serves as a significant landmark and a place
of spiritual importance in various Hindu narratives.
Mythological Significance:
Samudra Manthana: The churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthana) is a well-known
legend where devas (gods) and asuras (demons) churned the ocean to obtain the elixir of
immortality (amrita).
Kshira Sagara: The churning took place in the Kshira Sagara (ocean of milk), which is believed
to be the site of the legend.
Vedic Deities: The Vedic deity Varuna is associated with the ocean (Samudra), and Indra is also
frequently mentioned in connection with the ocean.
Other Names:
Kshara-Arnav: This name directly translates to "salt ocean".
Lavana Samudra: Another name for the ocean of salt water.
Other Oceans in Hindu Mythology:
Kshira Sagara: The ocean of milk, associated with nectar and immortality.
Other oceans: The Bhagavata Purana describes seven oceans surrounding the continents,
including the salt ocean, and others like sugarcane juice, wine, ghee, curds, milk, and sweet
water.
2. Ocean of Sugarcane Syrup
In Hindu mythology, the concept of an "ocean of sugarcane juice" (Ikshurasa-samudra)
is part of the description of the seven oceans surrounding the seven continents,
representing agricultural abundance and luxury.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
The Seven Oceans and Continents:
Hindu cosmology, particularly as described in the Puranas, depicts the world as
consisting of seven continents (dvipas) surrounded by seven oceans.
The Seven Oceans:
These oceans are said to be composed of different substances, including salt water,
sugarcane juice, wine, ghee, curd, milk, and sweet water.
Ikshurasa-samudra (Ocean of Sugarcane Juice):
One of these oceans is specifically described as being made of sugarcane juice
(ikshurasa), symbolizing the agricultural advancements and luxuries of the society.
Symbolism:
The concept of these oceans, including the one of sugarcane juice, represents a fantasy
about the good things in life and a transition from a nomadic, cattle-herding society to a
settled agricultural one.
Other examples:
The concept of seven oceans is also present in the Mahābhārata, with the exception of
the sugar cane ocean.
3. Ocean of Wine
In Hindu mythology, the "ocean of wine," or Surā Samudra, is a metaphorical concept
representing divine pleasure and merriment, often associated with the churning of the
ocean (Samudra Manthana) and the emergence of treasures, including the goddess
Varuni, who is the goddess of wine.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Symbolism:
The "ocean of wine" symbolizes a vast, rich expanse surrounding Shalmaladvipa,
representing divine pleasure and merriment. It reflects spiritual significance and is
inhabited by gods and Daityas, highlighting its celebratory nature.
Samudra Manthana:
 The churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthana) is a significant event in Hindu
mythology where gods and demons worked together to churn the ocean of milk (Kshira
Sagara) to obtain the elixir of immortality (Amrita). During this churning, various
treasures, including the goddess of wine (Varuni), emerged from the ocean.
Varuni:
Varuni is the goddess of wine, who emerged during the Samudra Manthana and is
associated with the god Varuna, who is the god of water and the ocean. She is
considered the wife of Varuna, his daughter, and the personification of his shakti (A
matrika or mother goddess).
Other Treasures:
Besides Varuni, other treasures that emerged during the churning of the ocean include
the cow of plenty (Surabhi), the wish-fulfilling tree (Parijata), the celestial dancers
(Apsaras), the moon (Chandra), and the physician of the gods (Dhanvantari).
Purāṇas:
The concept of the "ocean of wine" and the Samudra Manthana are described in many
Hindu scriptures, especially in the Mahabharata and the Puranas.
4. Ocean of Ghee Butter
In Hindu mythology, the "ocean of ghee" (or clarified butter) symbolizes purity and
richness, representing one of the unique northern oceans with waters resembling
clarified butter, integral to the spiritual landscape surrounding the northern islands.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Symbolism:
The "ocean of ghee" is a symbolic representation of purity and richness, emphasizing its
significance in the spiritual landscape.
Location:
It's described as one of the oceans in the north, surrounding the island of Kushadvipa.
Significance in Cosmology:
The concept of the "ocean of ghee" is part of the larger Hindu cosmology, which
describes the universe as having multiple continents and oceans with unique
characteristics.
Other Oceans:
Besides the "ocean of ghee," other oceans in this cosmology include oceans of milk,
yogurt, sugarcane juice, and wine.
Ghee in Hindu culture:
Ghee is considered a pure substance (sattvic) in Hinduism, symbolizing devotion and
purity. It is offered to Agni (the fire deity) to carry the prayers and offerings to the divine.
Ghee as a symbol of prosperity:
Ghee represents prosperity and abundance. Offering it signifies the willingness to share
one's wealth and resources for the greater good.
5. Ocean of Curded Milk
In Hindu cosmology, the "ocean of curdled milk," also known as Kshira Sagara, is a
mythical ocean where Vishnu reclines on Shesha Naga, accompanied by his consort
Lakshmi, and from which the gods and demons churned to obtain the elixir of
immortality, Amrita.
 Here's a more detailed explanation:
Kshira Sagara (क्षीरसागर):
This is the Sanskrit name for the Ocean of Milk, which is the fifth from the center of the
seven oceans in Hindu cosmology.
Mythological Significance:
The ocean is a central location in the Samudra Manthana (churning of the ocean) story,
a major episode in Hindu mythology.
Samudra Manthana:
This event describes how the Devas (gods) and Asuras (demons) collaborated to churn
the Kshira Sagara, using Mount Mandara as the churning rod and the serpent Vasuki as
the rope, to obtain the nectar of immortality, Amrita.
Vishnu and Lakshmi:
The Kshira Sagara is considered the place where Vishnu reclines on his serpent-mount
Shesha, accompanied by his consort, Lakshmi.
Other Treasures:
Besides Amrita, the churning of the ocean also yielded other treasures, including
Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and the lethal poison, Halahala, which Lord Shiva
consumed to save the universe.
Symbolism:
The story of the churning of the ocean of milk symbolizes the triumph of good over evil,
the importance of cooperation, and the pursuit of immortality.
6. Ocean of Milk
In Hindu cosmology, the "ocean of milk," also known as Kshira Sagara, is a mythical
ocean surrounding the continent Krauncha, and is the site of the legendary churning for
the elixir of immortality, Amrita.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Kshira Sagara (Ocean of Milk):
This is a mythical ocean in Hindu cosmology, considered the fifth from the center of the
seven oceans.
Krauncha:
The ocean surrounds the continent known as Krauncha.
Samudra Manthana (Churning of the Ocean):
Devas (gods) and asuras (demons) worked together to churn the Kshira Sagara for a
millennium to obtain Amrita, the nectar of immortality.
Amrita:
The churning resulted in the emergence of various treasures, including the elixir of
immortality, Amrita, which granted eternal life.
Mythological Significance:
The story of Samudra Manthana is a significant part of Hindu mythology, symbolizing the
triumph of good over evil, and emphasizing cooperation, perseverance, and
selflessness.
Other Treasures:
Besides Amrita, the churning also produced Lakshmi (goddess of wealth), the poison
Halahala, and other celestial entities and objects.
 Halahala:
Before Amrita was revealed, the lethal poison Halahala was released from the ocean.
Shiva, a major deity, drank the poison to prevent it from contaminating the ocean, which
is believed to be the reason for his iconic blue color.

7. Ocean of Fresh Water

In Hindu cosmology, the "ocean of fresh water" is referred to as the Kshira Sagara (milk
ocean), a place where Vishnu reclines on his serpent-mount Shesha, and the churning
of which led to the creation of Amrita, the elixir of immortality.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Kshira Sagara (क्षीरसागर):
This translates to "milk ocean" or "ocean of milk" and is a significant concept in Hindu
mythology.
Location:
The Kshira Sagara is described as the place where Vishnu, the preserver god, reclines
on his serpent-mount Shesha, accompanied by his consort Lakshmi.
Churning of the Kshira Sagara (Samudra Manthana):
The devas (gods) and asuras (demons) worked together to churn the Kshira Sagara for
a millennium to obtain Amrita, the elixir of immortal life.
Amrita:
Amrita is the elixir of immortality, and its acquisition through the churning of the Kshira
Sagara is a key event in Hindu mythology.
Other oceans:
The seven oceans are present in the much later Purāṇas. Then follows pure fantasy: the
sugarcane juice ocean, the liquor ocean, the clarified butter ocean, the curd or buttermilk
ocean, the milk ocean and the sweet water ocean, the svādūdaka samudra, which is
sometimes said to consist of pure holy water from tīrthas.

ATALA LOHKA
In Hindu cosmology, "Atala Loka" (अतललोक) is one of the seven nether worlds, or
"lower worlds," located beneath the earth, and is described as a realm of pleasure and
not a hellish place.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Location:
Atala Loka is one of the seven lower worlds (also known as Patala Lokas) beneath the
earth, alongside Vitala, Sutala, Rasatala, Talatala, Mahatala, and Patala.
Not a Hell:
It's important to note that Atala Loka, and the other Patala Lokas, are not considered
hells in the way they are often portrayed in other belief systems.
Realm of Pleasure:
These lower worlds are described as realms of pleasure and joy, where people reborn
there due to their good deeds (puṇya) experience happiness and prosperity.
Inhabitants:
Atala Loka is populated by beings like Dānavas, Daityas, Kālayas, and Phaṇis, who live
in a state of joy and pleasure.
Other Names:
Atala is also known as "the region of the nagas" and is ruled by Bala, a son of Maya,
who possesses mystical powers.

VITALA-LOKHA

In Hindu cosmology, Vitala-loka (वितललोक) is the second of the seven regions

descending from the earth, ruled by Hara-Bhava, a form of Shiva, and known as a realm
of gold and where residents are adorned with gold from this region.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Location:
Vitala-loka is one of the seven lower realms (Patala) below the earth, according to Hindu
cosmology.
Ruler:
It is ruled by Hara-Bhava, a form of Shiva, who dwells with attendant ganas, including
ghosts and goblins, as the master of gold mines.
Description:
Vitala is described as a realm of gold, with residents adorned with gold from this region.
Other Names:
Vitala is also referred to as the "second of the seven regions descending from the earth".
Significance:
The concept of Vitala-loka is part of the larger Hindu cosmology, which includes various
realms or lokas, both above and below the earth.
Other Lokas:
Other lower lokas include Sutala-loka, the kingdom of the demon king Bali, and Talatala-
loka, the realm of Maya.

SUTALA-LOKHA

In Hindu cosmology, Sutala-loka (सुतललोक) is one of the seven "nether worlds"

(Patalas) or lower realms, and is the abode of the demon king
Bali(MAHABALI)or(MAVELI) in malayalam.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Location in the Cosmos:
Sutala-loka is one of the seven lower worlds, or Patalas, which are below the Earth
(Bhuloka).
Dweller:
Sutala-loka is the kingdom of the demon king Bali, who was favored by Lord Vishnu.
Other Patalas:
The other Patalas include Atala, Vitala, Talatala, Mahatala, Rasatala, and Patala
(Nagaloka).
Higher Lokas:
The seven higher lokas are Bhuloka, Bhuvarloka, Svarloka, Maharloka, Janarloka,
Taparloka, and Satyaloka.
Significance:
The concept of Lokas, both higher and lower, is a central part of Hindu cosmology,
representing different realms of existence and levels of spiritual purity.

TALATALA-LOKHA

In Hindu cosmology, Talatala-loka is one of the seven lower worlds (or Pātālas) and is
the realm of the demon-architect Maya, who was granted this realm by Shiva after being
pleased with him.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Talatala-loka as a realm: Talatala-loka is considered one of the lower worlds, or Pātālas,
in the Hindu cosmology, alongside Atala, Vitala, Sutala, Rasatala, Mahatala, and Patala.
Maya's realm: Talatala-loka is specifically identified as the realm of the demon-architect
Maya, who is known for his mastery of sorcery and construction.
Shiva's protection: While Shiva, as Tripurantaka, initially destroyed Maya's three cities,
he later became pleased with Maya and granted him Talatala-loka, promising to protect
him.
Other names: Talatala is also known as Tala-atala, Talatāla, or Tala-tala.
Connection to Maya: The realm is closely associated with Maya, who is considered to be
a powerful demon-architect.
Location: It can be equated with the upper mantle of the earth.

MAHATALA-LOKHA

In Hindu cosmology, Mahatala is one of the seven lower worlds (Patalas) or nether
regions, often associated with the abode of Nagas (serpents) and other beings living in
the depths of the earth.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Part of the Patalas:
Mahatala is one of the seven lower worlds, alongside Atala, Vitala, Sutala, Rasatala,
Talatala, and Patala.
Abode of Nagas:
Mahatala is considered the home of many-hooded Nagas (serpents), particularly those
led by the Krodhavasha (irascible) band of Kuhaka, Taksshaka, Kaliya, and Sushena.
Hindu Cosmology:
Hindu cosmology posits a universe with 14 worlds: seven upper worlds (Bhuloka,
Bhuvarloka, Svargaloka, Maharloka, Janaloka, Tapaloka, and Satyaloka) and seven
lower worlds (Patalas).
Location:
The Patalas are located below the earth, and the seven upper worlds are above.
Other names:
Mahatala is also known as Mahatala loka.
RASATALA-LOKHA

In Hindu cosmology, Rasatala-loka is one of the seven lower worlds (Pātālas) and is
considered the abode of demons (Danavas and Daityas), who are the eternal foes of the
gods (Devas).
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Location:
Rasatala-loka is one of the seven lower worlds, also known as Pātālas, located beneath
the Earth.
Inhabitants:
It is the home of the demons, specifically the Danavas and Daityas, who are known for
their strength and cruelty.
Characteristics:
Rasatala is described as a rocky, underworld realm.
Other Lower Worlds:
The other lower worlds include Atala, Vitala, Sutala, Talatala, Mahatala, and Patala (also
known as Naga-loka).
Higher Worlds:
The seven upper worlds are Bhu, Bhuvas, Svar, Mahas, Janas, Tapas, and Satya.

PATALA-LOKHA

In Hindu cosmology, "Patala Loka" (also written as Patalaloka or Patala) refers to the
subterranean realms or underworld, often considered the lowest of the fourteen realms.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Location:
Patala Loka is situated beneath the earthly dimension, often described as the
"netherworld" or "underworld".
Description:
It's depicted as a realm filled with splendid jewels, beautiful groves, and lakes, and is
sometimes even described as more beautiful than Svarga (heaven).
In Pancaratra:
Patala is one of the seven "nether worlds" (Atala, Vitala, Nitala, Gabhastiman, Mahat,
Sutala, and Patala).
Other Meanings:
Patalaloka can also refer to:
The lower planets in general
The seventh tier of the lower planetary systems
The residence of the Snakes
In Vaishnavism:
Patala-loka is described as the bottom of Sri-Hari's foot, where Nagas like Vasuki,
Kalike, and Dhananjaya reside.
Other Lokas:
The other 13 lokas (worlds) are Atala, Vitala, Sutala, Rasatala, Talatala, Mahatala, and
the higher lokas (Bhuloka, Bhuvarloka, Svarloka, Maharloka, Janarloka, Taparloka, and
Satyaloka).
Paatal Lok (TV Series):
There is also a TV series called "Paatal Lok" that is inspired by traditional concepts of
Svarga, Dharti, and Paatal, using them as metaphors for different classes of India and
the four estates.

GARBHODAKA( GREAT OCEAN 🌊)

In Hindu cosmology, the Karanodaka (IAST: Kāraṇodaka) or the Garbhodaka (IAST:

garbhodaka), also referred to as the Causal Ocean, is the origin of material creation. It is
the place in the spiritual sky where Mahavishnu lies down and creates the material
world.The Causal Ocean is the border between the spiritual and material worlds

THE UPPER LOKHAS

MOUNT MERU

In Hindu and Buddhist cosmology, Mount Meru (also known as Sumeru or Sineru) is a
mythical, sacred mountain considered the center of the universe and the axis mundi,
symbolizing spiritual significance and divine authority.
Here's a more detailed look at Mount Meru's significance:
Cosmic Axis:
Mount Meru is believed to be the center of all physical, metaphysical, and spiritual
universes, around which the universe revolves.
Abode of Gods:
In Hindu mythology, Mount Meru is the abode of gods, and its foothills are the
Himalayas.
Origin of Rivers:
The mountain is also considered the origin of rivers.
Stairway to Heaven:
Hindus believe Mount Meru to be a stairway to Svarga, a heaven where the devas
reside.
Symbolism:
The roof tower crowning the shrine in a Hindu temple represents Meru.
Buddhist Perspective:
In Buddhism, Mount Meru is known as Sumeru (Sanskrit) or Sineru (Pāli) and is also
considered the central world-mountain.
Mount Kailash:
Some Buddhist traditions identify Mount Kailash as the mythological Mount Meru.
Size:
Mount Meru is described as 84,000 yojanas high, about 1,082,000 km (672,000 mi),
which would be 85 times the Earth's diameter.
SVAR LOKHA

In Hindu cosmology, "Svarloka" (also known as Svarga or Indraloka) is the celestial

abode of the devas (gods), often translated as "heaven," and is considered one of the
seven higher lokas.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
What it is: Svarloka is the realm of the gods, ruled by Indra, and is a place of great
beauty, aesthetics, and abundance where souls enjoy the fruits of their good deeds from
previous lives.
Also known as: Svarga, Indraloka.
Location: It is located above the Bhuvarloka (the realm between Earth and Svarloka).
Description: It is described as a place of great beauty, aesthetics, and abundance, with
lakes containing lotuses, pools of wine, milk, and ghee, as well as streams that are
replete with honey.
Vedic Perspective: The Vedas offer Svarga as the reward for proper practice of
sacrificial rituals on earth.
Not a permanent state: The time spent in Swargaloka is directly proportional to the good
karma done, and once the good karma is depleted, the soul has to fall back.
Association with Pitṛloka: Svarga is sometimes associated with Pitṛloka, the realm of
one's ancestors, but this association is not present in all literature.
Maya's Dominion: It is under the Dominion of Maya, meaning that one is not free from
the mental afflictions that affect human life, such as insecurity, jealousy, competition,
and fear.

MAHAR LOKHA

In Hindu cosmology, Maharloka is a significant celestial realm, a higher spiritual plane

inhabited by advanced souls and sages, associated with the worship of Yajneshvara and
known for its spiritual purity and elevated consciousness.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Location and Significance: Maharloka is located above Bhurloka (earth) and below
Janaloka, serving as an abode for virtuous beings who experience direct communion
with divine entities and a state free from the defects common in other realms.
Residents: Maharloka is inhabited by enlightened beings, sages, and those who have
risen above material indulgences, including figures like Bhrigu.
Spiritual Purity and Elevation: The realm is characterized by immense spiritual purity,
joy, beauty, and elevated consciousness.
Connection to other Lokas: Maharloka is one of the seven heavens (upper regions) in
Hindu cosmology, along with Bhuloka, Bhuvarloka, Swarloka, Janaloka, Tapoloka, and
Satyaloka.
Principle: The principle of Maharloka is Vijnana, the Idea.
Other Names: Maharloka is also known as Mahi Dyaus, the great heavens.
JANA LOKHA

In Hindu cosmology, "Janaloka" (जनलोक) is a higher realm, considered the fifth world,
above Maharloka, where beings escape the suffering of lower worlds, characterized by
great knowledge and spiritual attainment.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Location: Janaloka is a celestial abode, a higher realm above Maharloka.
Significance: It is a place of great knowledge and spiritual attainment, where beings
escape the suffering of lower worlds.
Inhabitants: Sages like Shri Sanat-kumara and the Siddhas reside in Janaloka.
Symbolism: Janaloka represents a celestial abode for spiritual practitioners who seek
liberation.
Hindu Cosmology: It is a significant part of Hindu cosmology, marking it as the fifth world
within this spiritual framework.
Other names: In some contexts, Janaloka is also referred to as "Jana Loka".
Other lokas: Other lokas mentioned in Hindu cosmology include Tapoloka, Satyaloka,
and the lower lokas like Atala, Vitala, etc.
Vaishnavism: Janaloka is a concept particularly relevant to Vaishnavism, a tradition of
Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord.

TAPA LOKHA

In Hindu cosmology, "Tapa-loka" (तपोलोक) is one of the 14 lokas (levels or realms of

existence), considered an abode of tapas (spiritual discipline or austerity) and a realm of
unadulterated awareness.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Meaning:
"Tapa-loka" is a Sanskrit compound meaning "loka of tapas" or "realm of austerity".
Location:
It's located above the earth and is one of the higher realms, considered durable and a
place where souls who have performed penance reside.
Purpose:
Tapa-loka is a realm where individuals who have practiced tapas (spiritual discipline) for
a long period are said to reside as a boon from the Lord.
Other names:
Tapoloka is also known as the abode of tapas or other deities.
Relationship to other lokas:
Tapa-loka is one of the three highest lokas (along with Jana-loka and Satya-loka) which
are considered durable.
Hindu Cosmology:
The concept of lokas is a key part of Hindu cosmology, which envisions the universe as
consisting of multiple realms of existence, with the earth as the middle part, above and
below which are heavens and nether worlds.
BRAHMA LOKHA( UPPERMOST REALM)

In Hinduism, Brahmaloka, also known as Satyaloka, is the highest realm or plane of

existence, considered the abode of Brahma, the creator deity, and a place of ultimate
reality and enlightenment.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Significance:
Brahmaloka is a celestial realm associated with the creator deity Brahma, and is seen as
a destination for those seeking higher understanding through spiritual practices.
Location:
Brahmaloka is considered the highest realm within the cosmological hierarchy, a place
of divine discussions and where souls reside after gaining knowledge but before
liberation.
Other Names:
Brahmaloka is also referred to as Satyaloka or Brahmapura.
Theravada Buddhism:
In Theravada Buddhism, brahma-loka is a realm of pious celestial spirits, consisting of
20 heavens, with the lower 16 being material worlds and the remaining 4 being formless.
Rebirth:
Theravada Buddhists believe that rebirth in the brahma-loka is a reward for those who
have combined great virtue with meditation, with the level attained depending on their
faithfulness to the Buddha, the dhamma (teachings), and the sangha (religious
community).
Brahma's Abode:
Brahmaloka is seen as the dwelling place of Lord Brahma, who is responsible for the
creation of the universe.
Hindu Trinity:
Lord Brahma is considered the first god in the Hindu Trinity, comprising Brahma
(creator), Vishnu (preserver), and Shiva (destroyer).