asura (mythology)

A mythological race of demonic beings which feature prominently in Hindu mythology and Buddhism. They are primarily malevolent, and are in a constant struggle against the gods for power. However some benevolent asuras also exist, which are typically depicted as protectors of justice and destroyers of evil.

They are usually depicted with multiple faces (typically four placed around a single head) and extra arms (typically four or eight). Each face may express a different emotion.