Garuda Pendant – Hindu God and Partner of Vishnu

Description

Garuda is a Hindu deity (god!) which brings protection and good luck to wearers of his pendant. Garuda is a massive bird like an eagle, with a very strong body and head like a man/bird. He flies Vishnu (Shiva) around everywhere he goes.

Garuda in Thai mythology is called Krut (ครุฑ) and he’s one of the most powerful, revered figures in Thai culture. He’s not a god but a divine creature, half man and half eagle, and he serves as the mount of Vishnu. Wherever Vishnu goes, Garuda carries him.

We have 2 Styles – Waterproof Garuda Pendant and a Gold-plated Cased Garuda.

Origins

• In Hindu mythology, Garuda is the king of birds, born from the sage Kashyapa and Vinata.

• In Thai adaptation (and across Southeast Asia), Garuda becomes more than just Vishnu’s mount. He’s a national and royal symbol of authority, power, and divine protection.

Appearance

Garuda is usually shown with a human upper body and a bird’s beak, wings, and talons. He has a strong, muscular frame, golden or red skin, and his wings symbolize immense speed and reach. In Thai art, he’s fierce, dynamic, and majestic.

Role in Thai Belief

• Protector and Power Symbol – Garuda represents strength, martial power, and protection from evil.

• Royal Emblem – The Garuda (Krut) is the official emblem of the Thai monarchy. The king of Thailand is considered a divine ruler, linked to Vishnu, and Garuda as his vehicle symbolizes that authority.

• Government Seal – You’ll see Garuda on official documents, money, buildings, and military insignias. It’s basically the mark of royal approval.

• Mythological Role – Garuda is the eternal enemy of Naga (serpents). In Thai art and temples, you’ll often see Garuda figures grappling Nagas, symbolizing the triumph of divine power over chaos or deception.

Cultural Presence

• In Bangkok, the Emerald Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Kaew) and many other temples feature Garuda statues and reliefs.

• People wear Garuda amulets for protection and authority.

• The Garuda still holds a sacred, almost untouchable place in Thai society – only the King can bestow the “Garuda emblem” upon institutions or individuals as a royal honor.

So in short, Garuda (Krut) in Thai mythology is the divine eagle-man, Vishnu’s mount, and in Thailand he’s also the ultimate royal symbol of power, protection, and legitimacy.