The Man-Lion avatar. Fourth of the Dashavatara. Emerged from a pillar to kill the demon Hiranyakashipu, who could not be killed by man or beast, inside or outside, day or night. Protector of the devotee Prahlada.
Lion-faced, human-bodied, with fierce expression. Sixteen to eighteen arms holding weapons. Usually depicted tearing Hiranyakashipu on his lap, claws ripping demon's intestines.