Ilvala (इल्वल)

Ilvala is an Indian name of a constellation. It is described in the Amarakosa, the authentic dictionary which has been orally transmitted over millenia, as comprising of the three stars near Mrgasira. As one of the 27 stars Mrgasira is identified with Lambda Orionis and the three stars of Ilvala constitute the belt of Orion.

The only reference available in an astronomical reference is by Samanta Chandrashekhar Pathani (1835-1904), the last traditional astronomer. He includes this in his star list.

Concordance, Etymology, History

Ilvala as a star name seems to have been forgotten as it is not listed in any other astronomical text. The namesake is a demon with a popular story narrated in the epic Mahabharata. He plotted to kill sages with the help of his brother - the scheme was to convert the brother Vatapi into a lamb and cook him to be served to hungry people. Once they are through he would call out for his brother who would emerge tearing open the stomach of those who ate him. The muders went unabated till sage Agasthya also was offered this lunch. Agasthya ate and ordered, ' Vatapi, get digested'. Thus, the plot did not work.

This story cannot be related to the three stars in any way.

Mythology

mnemonic tales and cultural significance

References

• References (general)