Kaliya (Multi-Headed Serpent)
Kaliya is a massive multi-headed serpent (naga) who lived in the Yamuna River during Lord Krishna's childhood in Vrindavan. According to the Bhagavata Purana, Kaliya had fled to the Yamuna from the ocean out of fear of his enemy, Garuda (the eagle deity). The serpent's presence poisoned the river — the water boiled with venom, killing fish, birds, and trees along the banks. The land for half a kos around the river became barren, and the villagers could no longer approach the water. Young Krishna, barely a child, dove into the deepest part of the river to confront the serpent. Kaliya wrapped Kr