India, June 4 -- Decoding Mythology

By Dr. Devdutt Pattanaik - Author, Speaker, Illustrator, Mythologist

In Indian mythology, Vishnu is described as the beloved of Lakshmi. His names are Sri-vallabha, beloved of fortune and Sri-nivasa, abode of fortune. In art, the goddess is shown residing in his heart or seated by his side. When he reclines, she is at his feet. This pairing is a metaphor. It explains why some leaders naturally attract opportunities while others struggle. Lakshmi follows Vishnu because Vishnu embodies the qualities that fortune favours.The first quality is balance. Vishnu reclines on a serpent and rides an eagle. The snake represents the ground reality, the tactical view, the daily struggle. The eagle represents the st...