2017-03-23 Thu

In popular culture Turtle is frequently depicted as a patient, wise and friendly creature. Its sturdiness, slow movement and old looking appearance made turtle the subject of many stories, folklores and mythologies. The Pancatantra and Jataka are adorned with the stories of Tortoise and Turtle.

Turtles are also depicted into global culture through poem, painting, songs and photography. They are connected to creation and the origin of Gaia (Greek Mythology) and also with the marine ecosystem. Its role in culture is always peaceful, slow but steady and strong willed.

According to mythology the shell represents heaven, the body represent earth and it’s under shell is the symbol of underworld. Turtle is also called as the carrier of good luck. In Hindu mythology one of the avatars of lord Vishnu is Turtle called ‘Kurma’. It held the mount Mandar on its back during Samudra-Manthan, so the nectar of immortality could be manifest by gods and demons by churning the sea.

It is also a vahan (vehicle) of Goddess Yamuna. In Sufism the hatching of turtle eggs and travelling into the sea is connected with entering the heaven.

We also see turtles in the temple, positioned in the front of the idol within the sanctum. They are considered the second most holy creatures in Hindu religion, after the cow, as they attract positive energy. It’s important is also mention in Vastu Shastra and Feng Shui.

This tortoise which won race agaisnt the hare, is losing out in today's world! Many species of Turtles and Tortoises throughout the globe are endangered and to prevent and protect them, American Tortoise Rescue has dedicated this day to celebrate and protect them.

India had also realised the importance of Indian turtle and to protect them it is taking steps. To acknowledge this endangered reptile, India post has issued a Setenant stamp in 2000.

To know about Turtle and Tortoise click here.