The devas and the asuras decided to churn the ocean (sagar manthan), and it was decided that whatever comes out would be divided between them. Mount Mandarachala was used as the churning rod, but since it began to sink into the ocean floor the moment it was placed, Vishnu in his second incarnation, in the form of a turtle Kurma (turtle), supported it on his back. Vasuki (King of the Serpents) became the churning rope. The asuras decided to hold the head of the snake, while the devas held its tail. Many things came out of the ocean:
Halahala: This lethal poison terrified the gods and demons alike. None wanted it. But since it had emerged from the ocean, someone had to accept it. The poison was so powerful that it could contaminate the ocean and destroy all of creation. Worried about the consequences, the gods approached the compassionate Shiva for help and protection. Shiva inhaled the poison in an act of self-sacrifice. Parvati prevented the poison from entering his body. The poison remained trapped in Shiva’s throat and Shiva’s neck turned blue.
Goddesses Lakshmi: The goddess of fortune and wealth emerged from the ocean and became Vishnu’s wife.
Apsaras: Rambha, Menaka, Punjisthala, et al, emerged and were given to the devas.
Varuni: The creator of alcohol was taken by the asuras.
Kamadhenu: The wish-granting divine cow was claimed by Vishnu and given to sages.
Airavata: Besides Airavata, the elephant, several other elephants were also taken by Indra.
Uchhaishravas: The seven-headed horse went to the asuras.
Kaustubha: The most valuable jewel in the world, it is now worn by Vishnu.
Parijat: This divine flowering tree was taken and placed in Indraloka by the devas.
Chandra: The moon emerged and today adorns Shiva’s head.
Dhanvantari: The doctor of the gods and ‘amrita’ emerged and went to the devas.