Bhagwan Surya
सूर्य देव
About
Quick Facts
Iconography & Symbolism
- Glowing golden form radiating divine light
- Riding a chariot pulled by seven horses
- Holding two lotuses
- Crown of rays symbolizing solar energy
Significance
Associated with vitality, clarity, and positive energy. Worship of Surya strengthens health, confidence, and discipline.
Worship & Practice
Offer water to the rising sun and recite Surya stotra or aarti with gratitude.
Prayers & Mantras
Ravi Vrat (Sunday Fast)
Observed every Sunday for health, good eyesight, success, and to seek blessings of Surya Narayan. Devotees fast throughout the day and eat only once after sunset, avoiding salt and oil.
How to observe (Vidhi):
- Wake up before sunrise and take a bath.
- Offer water (Arghya) to the rising sun with both hands.
- Recite Aditya Hridayam or Surya Ashtakam.
- Avoid eating salt, oil, or non-vegetarian food throughout the day.
- Eat only once after sunset with fruits, milk, or a simple meal.
Prasad: Wheat bread (roti), jaggery, and red fruits.
Famous Temples
Festivals
Chhath Puja
Four-day festival honouring Surya and Chhathi Maiya, especially celebrated in Bihar and eastern UP.
Makar Sankranti
Celebrates the sun's transit into Capricorn, marking the beginning of longer days.
Astrological Significance
Sunday is the day of Surya (the Sun). The Sun represents the soul (Atma), authority, and vitality. A strong Sun in the horoscope brings leadership, health, and government favour. Surya worship is recommended for those with a weak or afflicted Sun.
Planet: Sun (Surya)
Remedies:
- Offer water (arghya) to the rising sun every morning.
- Recite Aditya Hridaya Stotra on Sundays.
- Wear a Ruby (Manik) ring after astrological consultation.
- Donate wheat, jaggery, or red-coloured items on Sundays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Surya Namaskar performed?
Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) is a series of 12 yoga postures performed facing the sun. It is both a physical exercise and a spiritual practice honouring the Sun God as the source of all life.
What is Ratha Saptami?
Ratha Saptami (also called Surya Jayanti) falls on the seventh day of Shukla Paksha in Magh month. It marks the birthday of the Sun God and the beginning of Uttarayan — the sun's northward journey. Bathing at sunrise and performing Arghya is especially auspicious.
What is the Aditya Hridayam and why is it chanted?
The Aditya Hridayam is an ancient hymn (stotra) in praise of Surya, found in the Yuddha Kanda of the Valmiki Ramayana. The sage Agastya recited it to Rama before his battle with Ravana. It is traditionally chanted for health, vitality, inner strength, and victory over adversity.
