A great sage considered the founder of the Samkhya school of philosophy. An avatar of Vishnu in some traditions. Taught his mother Devahuti the path of liberation. His Samkhya Sutras form the basis of one of the six orthodox schools of Hindu philosophy.
Depicted as a sage with a beard, often in a teaching posture. Sometimes shown with four arms (as an avatar of Vishnu). Associated with the confluence of Ganga and ocean at Gangasagar.