Rishis & Acharyas
Maharshi Kashyapa
The Prajapati and progenitor of all living creatures
Introduction to Maharshi Kashyapa
Maharshi Kashyapa is a revered Vedic sage, a Saptarshi, and a principal Prajapati. He is traditionally recognised as the father of humanity, devas, asuras, nagas, and various other species, making him a central and foundational figure in Hindu cosmology.
Counted among the seven great rishis (Saptarshis) of the current Vaivasvata Manvantara, Maharshi Kashyapa is a foundational figure in ancient scriptures. As a Prajapati (creator deity) and the son of Sage Marichi (who was a mind-born son of Lord Brahma), his lineage forms the very roots of the universe. According to the Puranas and the Mahabharata, he married thirteen daughters of Daksha Prajapati, including Aditi, Diti, Kadru and Vinata.
Through these unions, Kashyapa became the father of the Devas (gods), Asuras (demons), Nagas (serpents), Garudas (birds), and nearly all living beings, symbolising the profound interconnectedness of all life forms. Beyond cosmology, he is deeply respected for his contributions to ancient medicine. He is credited with the Kashyapa Samhita, a foundational Ayurvedic text. Furthermore, the region of Kashmir is historically believed to have been named after him, originally known as 'Kashyapa-Mira' (the lake of Kashyapa).
Saptarshi
Recognised as one of the seven great sages in the current Vaivasvata Manvantara.
Great Progenitor
As a principal Prajapati, he is revered as the ultimate parent of all living creatures.
Ayurvedic Pioneer
He is credited with the Kashyapa Samhita, one of the oldest Ayurvedic texts.
Origin of Kashmir
The Kashmir valley derives its name from him. It was originally known as ‘Kashyapa-Mira’ or ‘Kashyap Moor’ (the lake of Kashyapa), originating after the sage drained a massive primordial lake to make the land habitable.
Related Services
Bring this into practice
Request a related pooja, homam or yagya, performed with care and respect for tradition.
Your notes
Private reflections you can revisit anytime.
Questions & Discussions
Ask a question or start a discussion about this page.
- No questions or discussions yet — be the first.