It seems the fae creatures are not exclusive to just one region of the world. In fact, they even make an appearance in Hindu and Buddhist mythology. Apsaras are the equivalent to fairies and are even sometimes called water nymphs!
The fairies of the East are very similar to the fairies of the west, only in Hinduism they are called "Apsara". Like fairies they are known to live in the woods, in the trees (such as the Banyan and the Sacred Fig tree), and near or on the water. Apsaras are companions to the Gandharvas, or the celestial musicians. Like fairies, they are said to be exceedingly beautiful and can be either a friend or a foe. They are feared for their ability to cause mental mayhem. These beings can be found in both Hinduism and Buddhism! They are usually depicted as a female spirit of the clouds or the waters. (interesting as the Celtic Tuatha De Dannan were also said to come on clouds from the waters)
The Apsaras are said to be the creations of the seven Manus, the parent ancestors of all mankind. The Ramayana and the Puranas both say they were created by the churning of the ocean. It is said that when they arose from the waters neither gods nor asuras (power seeking clans) would wed them. However, the Gandharvas would. They were known for their great dance skills, and could captivate and seduce all. There are two main types of apsara, "laukika"(worldly), and "daivika" (divine). They are said to be able to change shape, and rule over the fortunes of gaming and gambling. Good luck, or bad. They could even be compared to the nymphs of Greek mythology. Urvasi, Menaka, Rambha, Tilottama, and Ghritachi being some of the most well known among them.
The queen of the apsaras, Rambha is one of the most prominent. She is known for being of the most beautiful, best at dancing, and her music skills were unmatched. Rambha was violated by Ravana, king of Lanka. Because of this he was cursed by Brahma, that if he were to violate another woman ever again, his head would burst into an explosion. It was this curse that protected the chasity of Sita (the wife of Rama) when she was kidnapped by Ravana. This shows the extraordinary power of justice.
(I feel it important to add that there is a male version named Rambha who's father's name is "Danu". I find this especially interesting seeing as how the Celtic fairies, the Tuatha De Dannan, is translated into English as "The tribe of Dannu".)
So what do you think? Is there a link between the fairies of Hindu/Buddhist mythology, and those of Celtic mythology? Could they be the same beings?!
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