A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.1340

c5.1340

PĀTĀLA. The infernal regions, inhabited by Nāgas (serpents), Daityas, Dānavas, Yakshas, and others. They are seven in number, and their names, according to the Vishnu Purāna, are Atala, Vitala, Nitala, Gabhastimat, Mahātala, Sutala, and Pātāla, but these names vary in different authorities. The Padma Purāna gives the names of the seven regions and their respective rulers as follow :—(1.) Atala, subject to Mahā-māya ; (2.) Vitala, ruled by a form of Siva called Hātakeswara ; (3.) Sutala, ruled by Bali ; (4.) Talātala, ruled by Māya ; (5.) Mahātala, where reside the great serpents ; (6.) Rasātala, where the Daityas and Dānavas dwell ; (7.) Pātāla, the lowermost, in which Vāsuki reigns over the chief Nāgas or snake-gods. In the Siva Purāna there are eight : Pātāla, Tala, Atala, Vitala, Tāla, Vidhi-pātāla, Sarkarā-bhūmi, and Vijaya. The sage Nārada paid a visit to these regions, and on his return to the skies gave a glowing account of them, declaring them to be far more delightful than Indra’s heaven, and abounding with every kind of luxury and sensual gratification.