Four Kumaras from a Dashavatara Ganjifa set, c. 1800
The Four Kumaras are four sages in Hindu mythology: Sanaka, Sanandana, Sanatana, and Sanatkumara. They are known as the mind-born sons of the creator god Brahma and are revered for their purity, wisdom, and devotion. Instead of procreating to help with creation as Brahma had intended, they chose to remain eternally celibate children, devoted to spiritual pursuits.
- They were created by Brahma at the beginning of creation and are his "mind-born sons" (Manasaputras).
- Their names are Sanaka, Sanandana, Sanatana, and Sanatkumara.
- They are described as eternally young, pure-souled children who are wise and virtuous.
- When Brahma asked them to procreate to continue creation, they refused and chose a life of celibacy and devotion to God instead.
- They are considered great yogis and are the spiritual instructors for many, including the sage Narada and the avatar of Vishnu, Krishna. They are important figures in Puranic and Upanishadic literature