Mahisha or Maisa means buffalo (normally black buffalo). This animal appears in many forms throughout Hindu Scriptures and Mythology. Sometimes as a mount or vehicle of god, sometimes as demon / Asura, Buffalo appears dominantly.

Mahisha (Buffalo) in Hindu Mythology:

Paundraka -Yama’s Mount – A buffalo names Paundraka is vehicle or Vahana of  Yama, the Hindu God of Death. Along with Yama, the symbolism of the black buffalo associated with death in Hinduism.

Varahi’s Mount – Goddess Varahi is often seen riding buffalo in images or sculptures.

Mahishasura – The asura with half human and half buffalo body. Goddess Durga slayed the demon.