Significance of Uccaihshrava
Uccaihshrava, according to Vaishnavism and Purana texts, is a celestial horse that signifies strength, nobility, and divine status. It is notably associated with Indra and plays a pivotal role in the wager between Kadru and Vinata. Uccaihshrava emerged from the ocean during the churning process, highlighting its grace and celestial qualities. This horse is also venerated in propitiatory rites for its importance in equine health and is linked to opulence, virtue, and power in various mythological narratives.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Uccaihshrava'
Uccaihshrava, in Hinduism, is a celestial horse symbolizing divinity, grace, and strength. Emerging from the ocean's churning, it plays a significant role in legends, rituals, and represents excellence, worshipped particularly during auspicious times.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A horse that is perceived as brilliant and entirely white, leading to a dispute between Kadru and Vinata.[1] (2) The chief vehicle among the steeds owned by Mahishasura, indicative of his opulence.[2] (3) A celestial horse whose tail was the subject of a wager between Kadru and Vinata, leading to Kadru's deceit.[3] (4) A celestial horse that plays a central role in the wager between Kadru and Vinata.[4]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The horse that sprang up from the ocean, known for its divine status.[5] (2) The horse yoked to the chariot of Indra, symbolizing powerful transport in battle.[6]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The steed of complacent appearance worshipped by the gods and blest with every auspicious mark, who arose at the churning of the Ocean for nectar.[7] (2) The prince of horses involved in a wager that led to a curse from Kadru.[8]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) A radiant white horse that appeared during the churning of the ocean, which Bali desired but Indra did not take.[9]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The celestial horse that emerged from the churning of the ocean, symbolizing grace and divinity.[10]
From: Nilamata Purana
(1) A horse that should be worshipped during the bright fortnight of Asvayuj when the moon aligns with Svati constellation.[11]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The chief among horses, venerated in the propitiatory rites for his significance in equine health.[12]
From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya
(1) A divine horse mentioned as comparable to the newly acquired bright horse, symbolizing excellence and virtue.[13]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The horse belonging to Indra, symbolizing strength and nobility.[14]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A divine horse received by Namuci during the churning of the ocean, symbolizing strength and a means of resurrection.[15]