Narada (
Sanskrit: नारद,
Nārada, possibly derived from "năra", meaning man) is a Vedic sage who plays a prominent role in a number of Hindu texts, notably the
Ramayana and the
Bhagavata Purana. Narada is arguably ancient India's most travelled sage with the ability to visit distant worlds and realms (Sanskrit
lokas). He is depicted carrying a
khartal and
Veena with the name Mahathi and is generally regarded as one of the great masters of the ancient musical instrument. This instrument is known by the name "mahathi" which he uses to accompany his singing of
hymns,
prayers and
mantras as an act of
devotion to Lord
Vishnu. Narada is described as both wise and mischievous, creating some of Vedic literature's more humorous tales. Vaishnav enthusiasts depict him as a pure, elevated soul who glorifies Vishnu through his devotional songs, singing the names
Hari and
Narayana, and therein demonstrating
bhakti yoga. The
Narada Bhakti Sutra is attributed to him.