Surya Bhagwan, the radiant Hindu Sun God, embodies life, strength, and cosmic order. Worshipped since Vedic times, he appears daily as a visible divine presence nourishing the world. Revered in sacred texts, Surya’s myths, temples like Konark and Modhera, and rituals like Surya Namaskar inspire millions. Major festivals Makar Sankranti, Pongal, and Chath Puja honor him. Discover Surya’s timeless role, family, iconography, and how to connect with his blessings today.
Hindu religion is known for its multiple gods and goddesses, depicted in sacred art in the most beautiful forms. Yet there are a few rare deities, who are worshipped not as idols but as powerfully visible divine presence. The most popular one among them is Surya, the Vedic Sun god in India, who emerges every morning to give his devotees a chance to witness and worship him in all his glory.
Revered as Brahma in the morning, Shiva during the noon time, and Vishnu as evening comes, Surya is associated with the Prabha (aura) of the divine beings, a deity whose worship continues from the beginning of civilization to the modern period, because his role in nourishing and empowering life in the Universe is unparalleled.
In this article, we will bask in the splendor of Surya, going through various interesting facts about the Hindu Sun god, who is a primary member of the Panchayatana (five major sects dedicated to Ganesha, Shiva, Vishnu, Devi, and Surya) worshiped in Hinduism and is a divine being in Buddhism and Jainism.
✔️Parents - According to the Rigveda and Puranas, Surya was born to sage Kashyapa and Devi Aditi, who is known as the mother of the gods (Devas).
✔️Consort - His wife is Sanjana (Samjana), daughter of Tvastr, the celestial architect. Chaya (Shadow Wife), unable to bear Surya’s intense radiance, Sanjana created a shadow version of herself, Chaya.
✔️Children from Sanjana (Samjna) - Yama (god of death), Yamuna (the sacred river goddess), and Vaivasvata Manu (the progenitor of mankind).
✔️Children from Chaya (Shadow Wife) - Shani (Saturn), the planet deity known for karmic justice, and Savarna Manu, another progenitor figure.
✔️Ashvini Kumaras - Twin horse-headed physicians born when Surya reunited with Sanjana, who had taken the form of a mare.
✔️Karna - The famous hero of the Mahabharata, born to Kunti through the mantra she received from Durvasa Rishi, Surya’s blessing.
✔️Sugriva - The monkey king who helped Rama against Ravana.
Aruna, the charioteer of Bhagwan Surya also has interesting legends related to him. He is the brother of the mighty mount of Vishnu, Garuda. According to his stories, Vinata, the mother of Aruna in order to win a bet against Kadru, the co-wife of her husband about whose child would be born first, broke the egg in which Aruna was growing prematurely.
The being that emerged from that egg was thus very brightly red-colored and ill-formed. Cursing his mother, Aruna lunged into the horizon and was later blessed by his father to become the charioteer of the Sun god. The rich red color of the sky, just before sunrise, is considered to be the manifestation of the red-hued body of Aruna, who appears moments before his Lord, announcing his arrival.
In the Vedas, Surya and his various aspects are worshipped with chants and hymns. In the Ramayana and Mahabharata, he is mentioned in stories as the keeper of the divine order. The Mahabharata narrates that Surya gave the Akshayapatra or “vessel of unending food” to the Pandavas when they were forced to live in the forest.
In Ramayana, Rishi Agastya gave Sri Rama the Aditya Hridaya Stotram, a hymn dedicated to Surya as Aditya, chanting that would help Rama defeat Ravana. Devotees worship Surya through the Stotram today to gain blessings of confidence, strength, and success as the Sun god is believed to give boons of “Tejas”- brilliance and power.
The texts on iconography in Hinduism describe the Sun god as standing or sitting on his chariot, two-armed, holding stylized lotuses in each hand. He is sometimes depicted with his two wives Usha and Pratyusha (goddesses of morning and evening). His chariot is driven by 7 horses, each representing one day of the week. The names of Surya’s 7 horses are- Gayatri, Brihati, Ushnih, Jagati, Trishtuh, Anustubh, and Pankti, each synonymous with one Vedic meter.
Explore India’s famous Sun Temples from Konark to Modhera showcasing magnificent architecture and timeless devotion to Surya Bhagwan. While Surya Bhagwan lights up every corner of India, temples solely dedicated to him are rare but spectacular.
These architectural marvels represent stunning carvings, cosmic alignments, the majestic beauty of ancient Indian architecture and are examples of the reverence and power the Vedic deity held through various periods of Indian history. Let’s take a spiritual tour of India’s most iconic Sun Temples!
✔️UNESCO World Heritage Site, famously called the “Black Pagoda”. Konark was a symbol of India’s antiquity.
✔️Built in the 13th century by the Eastern Ganga ruler Gajapati Langula Narasingha Deva.
✔️Designed as a colossal chariot with 24 intricately carved gigantic wheels and seven galloping horses.
✔️In 1984 UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site and the annual Chandrabhaga Mela attracts thousands of devotees and tourists.
👉 Tip: Visit at sunrise to see the first rays hit the temple’s stone wheels!
✔️Built in the 11th century under Bheem I, the Chaulukya ruler, the Modhera Temple boasts a beautiful and elaborate Maru-Gurjar architecture, a regional style of Western India.
✔️Strategically aligned so that the first rays of the sun illuminate the deity’s sanctum at equinox.
✔️Features a grand stepped tank (Surya Kund) and richly carved pillars depicting gods, dancers, and scenes from daily life.
✔️During the Uttarayana of the Sun in January every year, hosts the Uttararda Mahotsava, celebrating folk art, dance and local culture against the backdrop of the splendid architecture.
✔️Kalhana, the early medieval writer from Kashmir, described this temple built by King Lalitaditya Muktapida, in the 8th century CE, near Anantnag.
✔️An exquisite blend of Gandhara architecture, Gupta elements, and Chinese influence visible in its construction.
✔️Strategically positioned on a plateau offering a panoramic view of the Kashmir valley.
✔️Despite medieval attacks and earthquakes, the temple restoration efforts are ongoing, with a new wave launched by the government in March 2024.
✔️Though in ruins due to invasions and natural calamities, it remains a symbol of ancient Kashmiri heritage.
✔️The sacred Vayu Purana mentioned as a potent ritual site for ancestor rites (Pinda Daan).
✔️The Dakshina Maanas tank of the temple is especially popular for these rites, giving the Dakshinark Temple an important place in the cultural geography of Gaya-kshetra.
✔️Pilgrims bathe in the sacred Dakshina Maanas Tank to cleanse sins and honor departed souls.
✔️The present architecture of the temple is traced to the 13th century, credited to the Warangal ruler, Prataprudra.
✔️A unique 7 hills cluster in Goalpara district dotted with relics of Hindu gods and goddesses, Jaina Tirthankaras, and Buddhist practitioners.
✔️Legends say Sage Vyasa established 99,999 Shiva Lingas here to make it a second Kashi.
✔️Features rare sculptures like Mahishasuramardini sculpture, Hari-Hara, Shiva, Stupas, and a 12-armed Vishnu or Mansa Devi statue are key findings of this unique site.
✔️Celebrating the colorful Sri Surya Mela every January during Maghi Purnima.
✔️The exact number of Shiva Lingas here is unknown, but hundreds of them all over the mountains, making this a powerful site, which is protected by the Indian Government.
✔️This temple houses the idol of Surya Deva with his wives, along with a cluster of temples dedicated to the Navagraha or nine planetary deities.
✔️According to the temple legends, the planets were cursed by Lord Brahma and later blessed by Shiva, to reside in this sacred land.
✔️Thousands of devotees visit to gain positive effects of Navagraha in their birth charts.
✔️Worship Shiva to protect them from the negative impacts of these planetary deities.
✔️Pilgrims worship Shiva to protect them from the negative impacts of planetary afflictions.
✔️Popular during planetary transits and solar festivals.
A tradition that has almost disappeared with its traces absorbed by other popular sects such as Vaishnava, Shaiva, and Shakta, the Saura sect is an ancient Sun-worship tradition, whose members revere the Sun god and put a red dot on their forehead, symbolizing Surya. Though the practitioners of this sect are virtually none, Sun worship is an important part of Hindu culture and the importance of Surya Deva is visible in the many festivals around the country dedicated to him.
These celebrations align with the Sun’s cosmic journey, the changing seasons, and humanity’s deep gratitude for light and life. Let’s explore how India honors the Sun God through vibrant customs and age-old traditions from Makar Sankranti and Pongal to Chhath Puja and Ratha Saptami.
✔️When - January 14th (approx.)
✔️Significance - The most popular festival across India, Makar Sankranti is a celebration of the Sun going from Southern to Northern Hemisphere or what is called “Uttarayana” in Hindu culture.
✔️Holy river baths at sunrise.
✔️Offering Arghya (water libation) to Surya.
✔️Community feasts with Khichdi, Tilgul, and sweets.
✔️Kite flying, a fun way to soak in the new sunshine!
🌞Fun Fact - In Gujarat, this day is called Uttarayan and entire cities turn into colorful kite carnivals.
✔️When - Mid-January (coincides with Makar Sankranti).
✔️Significance - Celebrates Surya Bhagwan for blessing farmers with a good harvest.
✔️Rice mixed with milk and jaggery boiling in clay pots till it overflows symbolizing abundance.
✔️Family prayers and offerings to the Sun.
✔️Festivities span four days: Bhogi, Surya Pongal, Mattu Pongal, and Kaanum Pongal.
🌾Did You Know? “Pongal” literally means “to boil over.”
✔️When - 10th day of Shukla Paksha in Pausha (December-January).
✔️Observed By - Mothers perform special rituals for their sons during this festival, praying Surya for their long life and health.
✔️Legend - Krishna’s son Samba was cured of leprosy by worshipping Surya at Konark for 12 years.
✔️Women typically wake up early in the morning and take a bath.
✔️They prepare various traditional dishes such as Khichdi, Ghadghadia Tarkari (curry), and different types of Pitha (cakes) like Manda Pitha, Kakara Pitha, and Arisha Pitha.
✔️These dishes are offered to Surya (the Sun God) during sunrise as part of the ritual.
✔️Chanting the powerful Aditya Hridayam hymn for health and prosperity.
✔️When - Seventh day of the bright half of Magha month (Jan–Feb).
✔️Significance - Believed to be Surya Bhagwan’s birthday (Jayanti).
✔️Early morning holy bath with seven Arka leaves on head and shoulders.
✔️Drawing chariots and Sun symbols at home entrances.
✔️When - 6th day after Diwali (Oct–Nov).
✔️Where - Especially grand in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal.
✔️Significance - Devotees thank Surya and his sister Chhathi Maiya for sustaining life and granting wishes.
✔️Fasting and abstaining from water.
✔️Offering Arghya to the setting and rising Sun, standing knee-deep in rivers.
✔️Singing traditional folk songs and prayers.
🙏Note: Chhath Puja is one of India’s most eco-conscious festivals no idols, no waste, only nature.
Be it through kites soaring high, overflowing pots of rice, or sunrise river prayers, these radiant celebrations keep the bond between humanity and the cosmic Sun alive and thriving. Surya Bhagwan, the giver of life, continues to be honored with gratitude and joy, every dawn and every season.
Apart from big festivals, millions of Hindus start their day by offering Arghya to the rising Sun and chanting the Gayatri Mantra a timeless prayer from the Rigveda invoking Surya’s brilliance and wisdom.
A massive celebration every 12 years, the Kumbha Mela marks the revolution of Jupiter or Devguru Brihaspati and takes place in the sacred cities of Prayagaraj, Haridwar, Nasik, and Ujjain. Ganga-snan and offering arghya to Surya Deva are prominent parts of the Kumba festivities, where lakhs of devotees gather around the holy rivers and pray for atonement and spiritual attainments.
One of the most popular exercises in Yoga all over the world, Surya Namaskar has its origin in the ancient worship of the Sun god, in his aspect as Aditya. Consisting of 12 poses, the Surya Namaskar is preferably performed before the rising Sun and is believed to bring positivity, strength, and confidence. Discover the spiritual meaning behind Sun Salutations and their benefits.
More than just an exercise, Surya Namaskar is a moving prayer that aligns your mind, body, and breath with the cosmic energy of Surya Bhagwan. Let’s explore its meaning, benefits, and how to practice it step by step, with the ancient mantras.
Surya Namaskar combines 12 graceful asanas (yoga poses) performed in a flowing sequence, ideally at sunrise facing the East. Each posture is synchronized with conscious breathing and a specific mantra dedicated to an aspect of the Sun.
Practiced daily, it is said to:
✔️Boost energy and flexibility
✔️Strengthen the heart and lungs
✔️Improve digestion and circulation
✔️Uplift mood and mental clarity
✔️Awaken spiritual awareness
Each pose in Surya Namaskar is honored with a Vedic mantra. Chanting these while moving through the sequence turns your practice into a moving meditation.
Unlike how many modern practitioners perform the Surya Namaskar, the practice is rooted in ancient Hindu culture, where each pose is connected to one aspect of Surya-Aditya and is paired with a powerful mantra. Each posture is to be done while chanting the mantra, for the maximum benefit from the salutations.
🌄 Start Position: Stand tall, feet together, spine straight, hands in prayer.
1. Pranamasana (Prayer Pose)
✔️Exhale. Join your palms at the heart center.
2. Hastauttanasana (Raised Arms Pose)
✔️Inhale. Stretch arms up and gently arch back.
3. Padahastasana (Hand to Foot Pose)
✔️Exhale. Bend forward from hips, hands beside feet.
4. Ashwa Sanchalanasana (Equestrian Pose)
✔️Inhale. Step right leg back, look up.
5. Dandasana (Plank Pose)
✔️Hold breath. Step left leg back, keep body in one line.
6. Ashtanga Namaskara (Eight-Limbed Pose)
✔️Exhale. Lower knees, chest, and chin to the floor.
7. Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
✔️Inhale. Slide forward, lift chest, elbows close.
8. Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Dog)
✔️Exhale. Lift hips, straighten arms and legs, forming an inverted V.
9. Ashwa Sanchalanasana (Equestrian Pose)
✔️Inhale. Step right foot forward, look up.
10. Padahastasana (Hand to Foot Pose)
✔️Exhale. Bring left foot forward, bend down fully.
11. Hastauttanasana (Raised Arms Pose)
✔️Inhale. Stretch arms up, gentle backbend.
12. Pranamasana (Prayer Pose)
✔️Exhale. Return hands to the chest.
✔️Practice on an empty stomach, preferably at sunrise.
✔️Start slowly even 3-6 rounds daily builds strength.
✔️Sync breath and movement for harmony.
✔️Chant mantras mentally or softly for spiritual depth.
In this way, the asanas or poses, performed with mantras, make the Surya Namaskar a complete physical and spiritual exercise, for the well-rounded growth of the individual. Surya Namaskar is a living bridge between the ancient worship of Surya Bhagwan and modern wellness. By greeting the Sun daily with gratitude and mindful movement, you invite health, radiance, and balance into your life exactly as the sages intended.
Why Surya matters today:
✔️Rise and shine with discipline.
✔️Soak in morning sunlight for health and vitality.
✔️Be steady and reliable, like the Sun.
✔️Radiate positivity light up your surroundings.
✔️Practice Surya Namaskar for mind-body balance.
Surya reminds us that while technology changes, nature’s truths are eternal.
Surya Bhagwan’s essence transcends India. Civilizations worldwide Egyptians (Ra), Greeks (Helios), Romans (Sol) honored the Sun as the source of life and inspiration. This universal reverence shows humanity’s timeless gratitude for the cosmic fire sustaining existence.
Surya Bhagwan is the Hindu Sun God, worshipped as the visible divine presence who nourishes and empowers life on Earth.
Surya is revered as the source of light, health, and vitality. He appears daily, symbolizing routine, balance, and spiritual energy.
Major Surya temples include Konark Sun Temple (Odisha), Modhera Sun Temple (Gujarat), Martand Sun Temple (Kashmir), Dakshinark Temple (Gaya), and Suryanar Kovil (Tamil Nadu).
Surya Namaskar, or Sun Salutation, is a sequence of 12 yoga poses performed facing the rising Sun, promoting strength and mental focus.
For the worshippers, the rising and setting Sun is the god himself, energizing the world every day and instilling routine, balance, and strength in its residents. Inside the home of the devotees, the Sun is symbolized by the Chakra (the multi-spoked wheel) or the blooming lotus whose petals are the rays of the Sun. In many sacred texts, Surya and Chandra are the two eyes of the divine gods and goddesses, guarding the creation endlessly.
The mighty protector and nurturer of the world is sometimes overpowered by the shadowy deity Rahu, who “eats” the Sun, causing the Surya-Grahan (Sun eclipse), a time associated with disturbances. But the ancient god always emerged unharmed from the Grahan.
Since the first human beings gazed at the sky and wondered at the power and brilliance of the yellow mass glowing above their head, Surya is among the rare witnesses of the waxing and waning of civilizations. It is probably this eternal and visible presence, that makes the Sun god a divine and powerful being in Hinduism, in every ancient culture of the world.
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