Once, the powerful demon Hiranyaksha reigned supreme over the entire world after obtaining several boons from Lord Brahma. He torments the Devas and all beings and they leave their heavenly abodes and hide in the caves and mountains on Earth. Hiranyaksha, whose giant body covers all directions, dislocates Bhumi Devi from her position in the orbit and submerges her into the Garbhodaka Ocean, causing great suffering for her and all beings supported on her. Extremely distressed, she pleads to Lord Vishnu for her rescue, who incarnates only under extraordinary circumstances for restoring Dharma. Lord Vishnu, assumes the form of a giant boar and dives into the cosmic ocean, rescuing and bringing Bhumi Devi out on his snout and piercing Hiranyaksha to his death.