Devas and Asuras churned the cosmic ocean for Amrit, the nectar of immortality. Lord Vishnu, as Kurma, stabilized the churning rod, Mount Mandara. Shiva consumed the deadly poison Halahal. From the ocean emerged treasures like Kamadhenu, Airavata, and finally, Dhanvantari with the Amrit. The Devas consumed it, gaining strength to defeat the Asuras.