Vasuki (King of Serpents)
Vasuki is the king of the nagas (serpent beings) in Hindu mythology and one of the most important serpent deities. He is best known for his role in the Samudra Manthana (the churning of the Ocean of Milk), where he served as the churning rope wrapped around Mount Mandara. The devas (gods) held Vasuki's tail while the asuras (demons) held his head, and as they pulled him back and forth, he released a tremendous amount of venom and fire. The poison was so potent it threatened to destroy all creation, forcing Shiva to consume it (turning his throat blue, earning him the name Nilakantha). Vasuki w