Memo to right wing Christian nutjobs: Our god can kick your god's butt! Garuda: King of the Birds and Messenger of the Gods. Garuda is depicted as having the golden body of a strong man with a white face, red wings, and an eagle's beak and with a crown on his head. This ancient deity was said to be massive, large enough to block out the sun. Garuda is invoked as a symbol of impetuous violent force, of speed, and of martial prowess. Krishna even carries the image of Garuda on his banner.