Nivatakavachas (Sanskrit: निवतकवच) are a celestial race of Asura demons, living deep under the oceans in Hindu mythology.
Etymology
Their name is Sanskrit for of practical application - layer - garment or similar.
Powers
Nivatakavachas are extremely powerful in magic, mysticism and warfare. They have powerful weapons and perpetrate evil in nature, but they also are glorious and legendary beings. The Devas under Indra cannot overcome them despite repeated battles.
Place
According to the Mahabharata they were 30,000,000 in number, and dwelt in the depths of the sea
Legend
In the Ramayana, they strike an alliance with Ravana after Ravana is unable to defeat them. They are finally vanquished and destroyed entirely by Arjuna, the hero of the epic Mahabharata.
References
- The Ramayana
- The Mahabharata translated by Kamala Subramaniam, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Press, 1977.