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The asuras (feminine: asuries) are a class of beings in Indic religions, including Hinduism and Jainism. They are often described as power-seeking clans related to the more benevolent Devas (also known as Suras) in Hinduism. In Hindu mythology, the asuras and the devas together sought to obtain amrita (elixir of immortality) by churning the milky ocean. Although they had agreed to share the amrita, strife broke out over its possession, which led to a never-ending conflict. Asuras are also described as deities along with devas, martyas, and yakshas. They are offered a distinction from yakshas, their cousins who are depicted to be forces of destruction. They are known as ahuras in both Avesta and Shahnameh.

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