Why shiva drank poison?

In Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva is often revered as the destroyer and protector. The story of Shiva drinking poison comes from the famous event known as the Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean) described in ancient scriptures like the Bhagavata Purana and Vishnu Purana. During the churning of the cosmic ocean by gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras), many valuable treasures emerged, such as the goddess Lakshmi and the divine nectar of immortality (Amrit). However, before these blessings appeared, a deadly poison called Halahala rose from the ocean. This poison was so toxic that it threatened to destroy the entire universe — gods, demons, and humans alike. Seeing the danger, the gods approached Lord Shiva for help. Out of his compassion for the world, Shiva decided to drink the poison. But instead of swallowing it, he held it in his throat, which turned his throat blue. From then on, he came to be known as Neelkanth (the one with the blue throat). The act symbolizes: - Self-sacrifice: Shiva absorbed the suffering of the universe to protect all living beings. - Balance: It teaches that even immense power should be used for preservation, not destruction. - Detachment: Shiva’s ability to control the poison without letting it spread reflects mastery over mind and body. For many devotees, this story also represents the idea that sometimes leaders or protectors must take on hardship for the welfare of others. Thus, Shiva drank the poison not for himself, but to save the entire creation from destruction — an act of ultimate courage, sacrifice, and divine responsibility.