Daitya

Daitya are a clan or race of beings in Hindu mythology often depicted as antagonists to the Devas (gods). The Daityas are the children of Diti and the sage Kashyapa. Diti, distressed at having lost her sons to Indra, performed severe penance to have a powerful son capable of defeating Indra and his celestial host. From this desire, the Daityas were born.

Characterized by their immense strength and their occasional use of magic, Daityas are often portrayed as ambitious and power-hungry, constantly striving to overthrow the Devas and establish their rule over the three worlds (heaven, earth, and the netherworld).

The conflicts between the Daityas and the Devas are a recurring theme in Hindu scriptures, symbolizing the eternal struggle between good and evil, light and darkness. Notable Daityas include Hiranyakashipu, Hiranyaksha, and Bali. While generally portrayed negatively, some Daityas are shown to possess virtuous qualities and even devotion to Vishnu. Their eventual defeat by the Devas, often with the assistance of Vishnu in his various avatars, reinforces the triumph of dharma (righteousness) over adharma (unrighteousness).