The heroic man-bird Garuda

Garuda is a mythical creature with the body of a man and the wings, beak, and talons of a bird. Garuda is associated with the sun's rays and is known for his power to destroy serpents, including the two giant snakes guarding the storm god Indra's amrita, the divine nectar that confers immortality. Garuda is typically depicted adorned with eight snakes and with hands folded in supplication. Garuda's image carved on pillars at the front of early temples indicate his connection with Vishnu, for whom he serves as a vehicle in ancient religious texts.