About 23naga
The devas and also the asuras chose to get Amṛta (Ambrosia—the celestial honey of immortalily) by churning the sea of milk. The Devas went to convey Mandara-mountain, for use since the churning rod. Their try was futile. The asuras manufactured a demo with the exact same result. The Bhūtagaṇas (Guards) of Śiva also designed a vain attempt.