Common questions about IAS, our mission, and how you can be part of this spiritual movement.
What is the Rig veda period ?
The Rigvedic Period is the earliest phase of the Vedic Age in ancient Indian history, generally dated to around 1500–1000 BCE.
During this period, the Rigveda was composed, and people worshipped natural forces and deities such as Surya (the Sun God), Indra, and Agni.
In short: The Rigvedic Period was the time when the oldest Vedic hymns were composed and early Vedic religious traditions developed.
A Purana is an ancient Hindu religious text that contains stories about gods and goddesses, the creation of the universe, kings, sages, and religious traditions.
There are 18 major Puranas, including the Vishnu Purana, Shiva Purana, and Bhagavata Purana.
Putreshti Yagya (पुत्रेष्टि यज्ञ) is a special Vedic fire ritual performed to seek the blessing of a child, especially a son, in ancient Hindu tradition.
Example: In the Ramayana, King Dasharatha performed the Putreshti Yagya under the guidance of Sage Rishyashringa. Afterward, his four sons—Rama, Bharata, Lakshmana, and Shatrughna—were born.
Surya (the Sun God) is related to both Buddhism and Jainism through religious art, symbolism, and ancient Indian traditions.
- In Buddhism: Surya appears in Buddhist art and texts as a celestial deity and symbol of light. He is sometimes depicted alongside Chandra (the Moon God).
- In Jainism: Surya is regarded as a celestial being and appears in Jain cosmology and temple art. The Sun is also important for understanding time and the movements of celestial bodies.
Surya Dev is connected to the Kumbh Mela through Hindu astrology and the positions of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter.
- Astrological significance: The timing of the Kumbh Mela is traditionally determined by specific planetary positions, including the Sun and Jupiter.
- Sacred bathing: Pilgrims bathe in holy rivers during auspicious periods to seek spiritual purification and blessings.
- Spiritual symbolism: Surya represents light, life, and divine energy, adding spiritual significance to prayers and rituals performed during the Mela.
There is no officially confirmed exact number of Surya (Sun) temples in India.
Approximately 849 Surya temples are listed in one temple directory, but this is not an official government count.
Some famous Surya temples are:
1. Konark Sun Temple — Odisha
2. Modhera Sun Temple — Gujarat
3. Arasavalli Sun Temple — Andhra Pradesh
4. Suryanar Kovil — Tamil Nadu
5. Deo Sun Temple — Bihar