Most asuras in Hindu mythology are evil, but there are definitely exceptions. In the early verses of the Rig Veda (1500–1200 bce) the term asura applied to gods and meant a “divine leader.” The demon Mahabali was defeated by Vishnu’s avatar Vamana, but in Kerala Mahabali is regarded as having been a great king and Vishnu allows him to return annually, a holiday celebrated as Onam. Prahlada, the son of the asura Hiranyakashipu, is known as a strong worshipper of Vishnu. Prahlada’s devotion and Vishnu’s protection of him form part of the mythology of the holiday Holi.
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