The Churning of the Milk Ocean

​While the story of the devas and asuras churning of the ocean of milk is found in Indian literature and art, it is not as popular as narratives of Rama or Krishna, or some other avataras in iconographic programs in temples. The churning story, however, is extraordinarily important in Cambodia.  It is seen in temple art, and also alluded to in stylized panegyrics.​ The extended sculpture is seen in many sizes in Khmer art, particularly temple lintels, and one of the largest bas-relief in the world, 49 meters long, also depicts this story in the Angkor Wat temple. 

Why is this story so popular in many spheres? Looking at the placement of the story or the panel in the literary and sculptural contexts, and by approaching it through texts, architecture, rituals, and performing arts, I suggest multiple interpretations of the narrative. The perceived relevance of the story and its pertinence to a plethora of socio-political contexts seems to give it an enduring appeal as seen from its ubiquitous presence in temple architecture, royal rituals, folk games, hotel-décor, and even election symbols.​

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