S
Gods
Shiva
Shiva, also known as Shankar, is one of the principal deities of Hinduism — the destroyer and transformer within the Trimurti, and the supreme being within Shaivism.
Importance in Hindu Mythology
Shiva represents the cosmic forces of destruction and regeneration. As Mahadeva he is worshipped across India, and as Nataraja he embodies the eternal dance of creation and dissolution.
Family
ParentsSelf-manifested (Swayambhu)
SpouseParvati (Sati)
ChildrenGanesha, Kartikeya
Also Known As — Names & Epithets of Shiva
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Mahadev | Greatest among all gods |
| Bholenath | Innocent and easily pleased |
| Shankar | One who brings welfare |
| Neelkanth | Drank poison during Samudra Manthan During the Samudra Manthan, the deadly poison Halahala emerged. Shiva drank it to save creation; the poison turned his throat blue, earning him the name Neelkanth. |
| Rudra | Fierce form of Shiva |
| Pashupatinath | Lord of all beings |
| Trilochan | Three-eyed Lord |
| Gangadhar | Holds Ganga in his hair |
| Nataraja | Lord of Dance |
| Mahakaal | Lord of Time and Death |
Related Scriptures
Shiva PuranaLinga PuranaRudram (Yajurveda)
Related Festivals
🪔 Maha Shivaratri🪔 Shravan Month🪔 Pradosha
Related Temples
🛕 Kashi Vishwanath (Varanasi)🛕 Kedarnath🛕 Somnath🛕 Mahakaleshwar (Ujjain)
Related Baby Names
Divine names inspired by Shiva — tap any linked name for its full meaning, numerology & Rashi.
Similar Mythological Figures
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Shiva called Neelkanth?
Because he drank the Halahala poison during the churning of the ocean, turning his throat blue.
Who are Shiva's children?
Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya (Murugan).