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Alaka

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In Hinduism, Alaka (Sanskrit: अलक), which is also sometimes called Alakapuri, is a mythical city. It is the home of Kubera, the king of Yakshas and the lord of wealth, and his attendants, called yakshas.[1] The Mahabharata mentions this city as the capital of the Yaksha Kingdom. This city rivals the capital of Indra the king of the Devas in its architecture, opulence, and overall splendor. It is quoted in the famous lyrical poem Meghadūta[2] by Kalidasa

Alaka in Sanskrit means, 'lock of curly hair'.[3] It is also a common name for Hindu girls.[3]

References

  1. ^ (Kramrisch, Stella). 1994. The Presence of Siva, p.137
  2. ^ Meghadūta
  3. ^ a b Meaning and origin of name Alaka