Dogs hold a special and multilayered place within the Hindu belief system. They prominently appear throughout many Sanatani sacred texts. These prominent canine figures play some very unique roles from being loyal companions, protective guardians to distinctive judges of the cycle of life. They symbolically represent the cosmic order of life itself.
Sarama: The Canine of the Devas
A revered being she is considered as the forebear of all dogs.
According to the Rigveda, the oldest Hindu scripture, this loyal female canine is considered as the “Canine of the Devas” or celestial beings.
‘The loyal pathfinder’
A loyal companion to Lord Indra, the king of the gods, Sarama embodies commendable traits.
Legend has it that her devotion, loyalty, sharp intelligence, perseverance, heightened senses made her successfully retrieve Lord Indra’s stolen cows.
Her amazing tracking abilities and perseverance also gave her the name of ‘The Pathfinder ‘. Serving as an inspiration to others for her dedication and determination towards her goal.
Shvana: The Multifaceted Guardian
The Sanskrit word “Shvana,” meaning “dog” in English, is widely mentioned across Hindu sacred Vedic texts. The importance and sacred nature of dogs are emphasized in these texts. Shvana’s symbolic representation is multifaceted, signifying the crucial transition between the mortal realm and the beyond. Additionally, Shvana embodies loyalty, security, and the maintenance of cosmic order. This multifaceted symbolism highlights the passage between the mortal and divine realms, representing loyalty, safety, and the essential role of maintaining cosmic equilibrium.
The Four-Eyed Watchdogs of Yama
Yama, the Hindu deity presiding over death, is flanked by two formidable four-eyed dogs named Sharvara and Shyama. These fierce canine companions guard the gates of Naraka, the Hindu underworld. Their formidable presence symbolises the judgment of the deceased. Those with meritorious karma are granted passage, while the wicked face the consequences of their actions. This underscores the impartiality of Yama’s judgment and the inevitable consequences of one’s deeds.
Bhairava’s Canines symbolising both Protection & Destruction
Bhairava, a ferocious manifestation of Shiva, the god of transformation, is often depicted riding a black dog. This canine companion symbolizes Bhairava’s association with time and the inevitable process of change. The dog’s unwavering loyalty and fierce nature reflect Bhairava’s roles as both a protector and a harbinger of destruction. This image also serves as a reminder that even the most fearsome deities can find companionship and devotion.
Khandoba’s Warrior Dog
Khandoba, a regional deity particularly revered in Maharashtra, is frequently portrayed riding a dog. As a warrior god associated with hunting and justice, Khandoba’s canine companion serves as a trusted protector and loyal friend throughout his endeavors. The dog’s presence reinforces Khandoba’s swiftness, bravery, and unwavering commitment to upholding justice, symbolizing the strong bond between the deity and his faithful companion.
Dattatreya’s quartet of dogs symbols of the Vedas
Dattatreya, a four-armed form of Vishnu representing renunciation and wisdom, is often accompanied by a quartet of dogs. These canines symbolize the four Vedas, the foundational Hindu scriptures. Their presence signifies Dattatreya’s mastery of knowledge and his profound connection to the natural world. The dogs, embodying the Vedas, serve as his constant companions on his journey of spiritual enlightenment, highlighting his profound wisdom and deep spiritual insight.3
Beyond these examples, dogs are also featured prominently in various Hindu festivals and traditions.
Kukur Tihar: The festival of worshipping and celebrating Dogs
A special puja called Kukur Tihar, or Dog Festival, is performed to honour dogs, acknowledging their loyalty and role as guardians.
Also known as Narak Chaturdashi, this is an annual Hindu festival originating from Nepal. It is celebrated each year around October or November. On this day, people worship dogs to honour Yama, the God of death.
Since dogs are considered to be his messengers. This celebration highlights the reverence for dogs within the Hindu belief system , emphasizing their spiritual and symbolic importance.
The spiritual significance of ‘Dog’ being spelt ‘God’ backwards:
A dog is not just a human’s best friend but also a friend to the Gods. It’s time to appreciate our native dogs who have been companions to the Gods and even to the kings of our land.
It’s clear that these canine figures are much more than just another species on the planet. They have a deep Spiritual and Cultural Significance in the Hindu faith.
It’s time to bring home an Indian Native Dog today, with a lot of blessings from the divine Hindu Gods along the way!
