One of two demons that tries to murder the deity Brahma in Hindu mythology (the other is Madhu).
The narrative is told in a variety of legendary texts, with
some significant changes between them.
During the age of cosmic dissolution, Madhu and Kaitabha are
born from the deity Vishnu's earwax, according to all traditions (pralaya).
A lotus erupts from Vishnu's navel as the universe is being
created.
It begins with the revelation of Brahma, the creator-god,
who is promptly assailed by Madhu and Kaitabha.
Brahma makes a plea for aid in all versions of the
narrative.
Vishnu deceives and kills the demons (who are powerful but
not very intelligent).
The distinction is in the god to whom Brahma pleads for
assistance.
The narrative initially occurs in Vishnu's mythology, when
Brahma summons the god.
The Devimahatmya, the oldest legendary source for the
religion of the Mother Goddess as the greatest celestial force, tells a similar
scenario.
In this version, Brahma's song of gratitude is to the
Goddess, who has lulled Vishnu into a cosmic coma in her guise as Yoganidra
("yoga sleep"), making him unable to assist Brahma.
The Goddess, pleased by Brahma's praise, relinquishes her control over Vishnu, who wakes and slays the demons.
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