ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Lokapala

Lokapala is the name given to a group of powerful guardian deities in the Hindu and Buddhist religions. They are like superheroes who protect different directions and are in charge of maintaining order and balance in the world.

Imagine a big circle around you, and divide it into four parts like a pizza. Each Lokapala is like a guardian of each of these four parts. One is in charge of the north, another in charge of the east, another in charge of the south and the final one in charge of the west. These guardians are like bodyguards for these directions.

These guardians also have special powers that they use to help them protect the world. For example, one of them has a strong weapon to protect the north, while another has a powerful shield to protect the south. Each Lokapala has a unique weapon they can use to fight off any harm or danger that comes their way.

People often pray to these guardians when they need help or protection. Even if someone is lost, people turn to the Lokapala that oversees the direction they want to go to help guide them on their way. So, they are like friends who you can turn to when you need help and protection no matter where you are.