Introduction
Prahlada is the son of the Asura king Hiranyakashipu, and, despite his father's opposition, one of the most celebrated devotees (bhaktas) of Vishnu in the Puranic tradition. He is the grandfather of the Asura king Bali.
This article follows the Puranic tradition. Where a detail differs between texts, the article says so.
Family
- Father: Hiranyakashipu
- Son: Virochana
Devotion from birth
Prahlada is said to have been devoted to Vishnu even in the womb, having heard the sage Narada teach devotion to his mother while his father was away. As a child he refused to accept his father's demand to be worshipped as supreme, and continued to worship Vishnu openly.
Persecution
Hiranyakashipu tried to kill him by poison, by having him crushed under elephants, thrown from a mountain, bitten by serpents and burned by his aunt Holika, who carried him into fire wearing a cloak that was supposed to protect only her. In each case Prahlada was unharmed, calmly trusting in Vishnu throughout.
Narasimha
When Hiranyakashipu finally attacked a pillar, demanding to know if Vishnu was inside it, Vishnu emerged as Narasimha and killed him, in front of Prahlada. Prahlada was then made king in his father's place, but ruled only briefly before handing the kingdom to his own line; his grandson was Bali.
Meaning
Prahlada is held up as the model devotee, whose faith is unshaken by any threat or persecution, and Holi, the festival of colours, is associated in many regions with the story of Holika's fire and Prahlada's survival.