Narsingh, also known as Narsingh Avatara, is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The story of Narsingh Avatara is told in the Puranas, a collection of ancient Hindu texts.
Hiranyakashipu boon which made him arrogant
According to the story, a demon king named Hiranyakashipu had obtained a boon from Brahma that he could not be killed by any human or animal, during day or night, inside or outside, and on land, water, or air. He became arrogant and began to torment the gods and saints.
Vishnu becomes half lion and half man
To defeat Hiranyakashipu, Vishnu took the form of Narsingh, half man and half lion. Narsingh then went to Hiranyakashipu’s palace and killed him. Hiranyakashipu’s son, Prahlad, was a devotee of Vishnu and was protected by him throughout his father’s tyranny. Prahlad was able to recognize Narsingh as an incarnation of Vishnu, and praised him for his protection.
The story of Narsingh Avatara is considered significant in Hinduism as it highlights the power of devotion, and the ultimate victory of good over evil. It also serves as a reminder that even the most powerful beings can be defeated by the will of the divine.
Narsingh is often depicted as a fierce, half-man half-lion figure, with a human head and a lion’s body. He is commonly worshipped in temples and shrines dedicated to Vishnu, and is considered a powerful deity who can grant strength, courage and protection to those who call upon him. The festival of Narsingh Jayanti is celebrated in honor of Lord Narsingh and it is believed that Lord Narsingh has incarnated on this day to destroy the demon king Hiranyakashipu.
This avatar is also associated with the Holi Festival of India.