The Avatars of Vishnu

An Avatar, in Sanatana Dharma, is the descent of a deity to Earth. Lord Vishnu incarnates across cosmic ages (Yugas) to protect the righteous, vanquish evil, and restore Dharma. Each form, from the mighty boar to the divine prince, serves a unique purpose in the grand cosmic play.

The 24 Divine Manifestations

Filter and explore the complete lineage of Vishnu's major incarnations.

Avatars Across the Yugas

Journey through cosmic time to see how Lord Vishnu's incarnations have descended to uphold Dharma in each age.

End of Kali Yuga

The prophesied final avatar who will appear to cleanse the world and usher in the next Satya Yuga.

Kalki

The Three Gunas: Nature of Incarnation

The three Gunas (qualities) of cosmic nature influence the purpose and form of each avatar.

Sattva (Purity & Preservation)

Represents balance, harmony, knowledge, and purity. Sattvik avatars descend to teach, guide, and preserve cosmic order through wisdom and righteousness.

Rajas (Action & Passion)

Represents action, passion, ambition, and change. Rajasik avatars establish kingdoms, institute laws, and manage worldly affairs to structure society around Dharma.

Tamas (Destruction & Rest)

Represents inertia, destruction, and darkness. Tamasik avatars manifest to destroy powerful evil forces and reset the cosmic balance through fierce, direct intervention.

यदा यदा हि धर्मस्य ग्लानिर्भवति भारत ।
अभ्युत्थानमधर्मस्य तदात्मानं सृजाम्यहम् ॥
— Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 4, Verse 7

"Whenever and wherever there is a decline in religious practice, O descendant of Bharata, and a predominant rise of irreligion—at that time I descend Myself."