Nilakantha Poem by NRUSINGHA MISHRA

Churning of ocean was performed to get the nectar
Devas the virtuous ones at one end and the cruel demons at the other
Used tremendous force on the great serpent Ananta used as rope
Fueled by competition to defeat the other and take revenge
Many treasures were recovered from the bottom of the ocean depth
Including the most beautiful and accomplished princess
Goddess Laksmi who became the consort of Lord Narayan
Decided to give nectar to Devas and demons received drink of intoxication
When everything seemed to be settled, serpent Ananta was very tired and exhausted
Fires of blue poison began to erupt from the mouth and flow was uninterrupted
Everybody became worried to see the poison spreading like wild fire
Prayed to Lord Shiva to come to the rescue and save creatures from the burning pyre
Lord Shiva was in deep penance and opened his third eye to come up with quick solution
Suddenly arrived at the scene and engulfed the whole poison in His mouth to save creation
God of destruction became God of solace, benevolence, and protection
Poison had to be stopped at the throat not allowed to go inside being the abode of Narayan
Throat of Lord Shiva became deep blue because of effects of poison on the vocal chord
Became Nilakantha whch symbolizes His courage, unparalleled sacrifice and devotion to His Lord