In Hindu mythology, the event that led to the churning of the ocean, known as Samudra Manthan, was the quest for amrita, the nectar of immortality. The gods and demons collaborated to churn the ocean using Mount Mandara as the churning rod and the serpent Vasuki as the rope. This cosmic event not only produced the elixir of life but also numerous treasures and beings, illustrating themes of cooperation and the struggle between good and evil. The churning signifies the search for enlightenment and the duality of existence.