இநத தததவததல தலதல லகம: ஆனமகமம பரபஞசமம

Hindu philosophy explains the universe as a multi-layered structure. According to the Vedas, Agamas, and Puranas, the cosmos is classified into fourteen worlds (Lokas), which are divided into two categories: the upper worlds and the lower worlds. Talatala-loka is identified as the fourth among the seven lower realms. Mythological accounts describe Talatala-loka as the realm of the powerful king of Asuras, Mayasura. Renowned as the architect of the Asuras, Mayasura was a master of illusions (Maya) and magical powers. The Mahabharata credits him with the construction of the city of Indraprastha (modern-day Delhi). Talatala-loka is characterized as a world of mantras, illusions, and miraculous forces. According to the Vishnu Purana, this realm is situated at a depth of 40,000 yojanas beneath the Earth. The uniqueness of Talatala-loka lies in its illusory powers. Through his Maya, Mayasura constructed magnificent cities and palaces within this realm, which exist as ever-changing illusory appearances. Although the objects in this world seem real, they are composed of illusion, serving as a symbol of the cosmic force of Maya. From a spiritual perspective, Talatala-loka represents human delusion and enchantment. Mayasura personifies human intellect intertwined with illusory power. This realm signifies the state in which a human becomes trapped in the false appearances of the material world, thereby losing true spiritual consciousness. This research article explores the cosmic structure, mythological descriptions, and spiritual significance of Talatala-loka.