Surya the Sun God

Surya attended by Ushas and Pratushyas who drive away the darkness.

Surya represents the Sun God in Hindu mythology. A red man with three eyes and four arms, Surya rides in a chariot drawn by seven mares, which many interpret as representative of the colours of the spectrum.

Holding water lilies in two of his hands, his third hand is extended in encouragement of his worshippers, whom he blesses with his fourth hand.

In Indian culture, Surya holds the place of a benevolent deity capable of healing sick people. Surya Puja, or offering prayers to the sun, is a form of worship practised by many. Additionally, the symbol of the sun is thought to bring good fortune.

In Hindu mythology, when Surya married Sanjana, she could not bear the intense light and heat radiating from his presence. She escaped into a forest, transforming herself into a mare, so that Surya would not recognise her. However, Surya found out and went to the same forest disguised as a horse.

Sanjana gave birth to several children, and she and her husband were reunited.

But, the heat and the light emanating from Surya were so difficult to put up with that Sanjna was always tired performing her domestic duties. Sanjana's father came to the rescue. He trimmed Surya's body and reduced his brightness by an eighth. Thus, Sanjana could now live close to her husband, without much discomfort.

Indra, the Thunder God

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