Skt., apsara; moving in water
A group of Eastern goddesses generally associated with water, though they are also known as "shape-shifters" who can assume any form at will. They appear most often as magnificent women also called Daughters of Joy, with rich, long hair and full breasts smelling of sandalwood.
One of their functions is to tempt/seduce/test potential male initiates, ascetics, hermits etc.; and they are said do so to the point of madness.
On the other hand, like the European Valkyries, they also accompany fallen warriors to their well deserved afterlife. Many of the female figures depicted in and on temples such as Khajuraho (India) and Angkor Wat (Kampuchea) are apsaras and yakshinis; and they have often been compared to the European Nymphs.
The better known individuals bear the following names:
Adrika, Asvini (also one of the G'nas), Aukshagandhi, Bhima,
Dhrtarastra, Galadi,
Gauri, Ghrtaci, Guggulu, Ira, Jamadagni,
Kesini, Mandakarini, Naladi, Pramandani, Ramba,
Rati, Tilotama, Tvastr, and Urvasi.