Kurma

Within Hindu religious traditions, Kurma (कूर्म) is the tortoise form of Vishnu who supports Mount Mandara during the churning of the ocean. The figure is particularly meaningful in discussions of stability, support, patience, cosmic cooperation and endurance. Traditional art and temple imagery often use tortoise form, Mount Mandara and ocean-churning imagery to help devotees identify the deity or form. Common alternate names include Kurma Avatar. Because Hindu practice is diverse, no single regional custom should be described as universal. An authoritative Madhuma page can combine an accessible introduction with carefully labelled mythology, traditional beliefs, iconographic details, major worship centres and present-day observances, while avoiding exaggerated miracle claims or unsupported astrological promises.