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Significance of Underworld

In Vaishnavism, the Underworld, known as Pathala, is described as the lower realm in Hindu cosmology. It signifies the area situated beneath the Earth, playing a significant role in the understanding of the universe within the tradition. Pathala is often associated with various mythical narratives and serves as a contrasting counterpart to the heavenly realms in Hindu beliefs.1
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Synonyms: Netherworld, Abyss, Inferno, Lower world, Hell, Afterlife

In Finnish: Manala; In Spanish: Inframundo

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Underworld'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, the Underworld signifies a realm tied to hells, characterized by intangible jails shaped by individual karma, illustrating the consequences of one's actions in a spiritual context.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Purvapranidhana Sutra

(1) A realm associated with hells, where the jails are not physically tangible and are affected by individual karma.[1]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Hindu concept of 'Underworld'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, the Underworld, or Pathala, is depicted as the lower realm in cosmology, situated beneath Earth. This realm symbolizes a distinct spiritual area with specific characteristics and significance in Hindu beliefs.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation

(1) Represents the realm where defeated Asuras hide, signifying a place removed from the divine and good forces.[2] (2) Referred to as Pathala, it is the lower realm in Hindu cosmology, representing the area beneath the Earth.[3]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu�).

Significance in Kavya (poetry):
Kavya Books

From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)

(1) A realm associated with spirits and demons, related to the dark challenges faced by heroes in their quests.[4]

Kavya refers to Sanskrit poetry, a popular ancient Indian tradition of literature. There have been many Sanskrit poets over the ages, hailing from ancient India and beyond. This topic includes mahakavya, or ‘epic poetry� and natya, or ‘dramatic poetry�.

The concept of Underworld in local and regional sources

History Books

Underworld denotes the criminal realm where Neelu was a prominent and feared figure, highlighting his influential status and the overall power dynamics within illegal activities in the region.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) A term referring to the criminal world where Neelu held a significant and feared position.[5]