Surya

Chief solar deity, god of the sun, light, warmth, and remover of darkness; a source of life and knowledge. One of the Adityas.

Surya is the chief solar deity in Hinduism, representing the sun, light, and warmth. He is considered the life-giver, sustaining all existence, and is revered as a source of energy, health, and knowledge. Surya is one of the Adityas, the celestial sons of Aditi. He is typically depicted riding a chariot drawn by seven horses, representing the seven colors of the rainbow or the seven chakras. The charioteer is Aruna, the dawn personified. Surya is often shown holding two lotus flowers, symbolizing purity and the blossoming of consciousness. His worship dates back to Vedic times, and he is a significant deity in daily Hindu rituals, particularly through practices like Surya Namaskar (sun salutation). He is believed to dispel darkness, both physical and spiritual, and to bestow good health, prosperity, and success.