Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about IAS, our mission, and how you can be part of this spiritual movement.
What is the mantra behind the names of all these horses? In Hindu mythology, the seven horses of Surya Dev’s chariot are associated with the seven colours of light and the seven Vedic metres (Chhandas). Their names are traditionally given as: Gayatri Brihati Ushnik Jagati Trishtubh Anushtubh Pankti Meaning: These names represent the metres used in Vedic hymns. They symbolize the rhythm of the universe and the divine power of Surya Dev. Mantra: There is no single universally accepted mantra specifically naming all seven horses. The names are traditionally recited in descriptions of Surya’s chariot.
The temples of Surya Dev were built to worship the Sun God as the source of life, health, light, and prosperity. Many have stories connected with Hindu mythology, kings, and devotees who prayed to Surya for blessings or healing. Famous examples include: - Konark Sun Temple, Odisha: Built by King Narasimhadeva I in the 13th century, it is designed like Surya Dev’s giant stone chariot. - Modhera Sun Temple, Gujarat: Built during the reign of King Bhima I in the 11th century, it is dedicated to Surya Dev. - Martand Sun Temple, Kashmir: Built by King Lalitaditya Muktapida in the 8th century to honor Surya. - Deo Sun Temple, Bihar: An important pilgrimage site associated with Surya worship and Chhath Puja traditions. Why are these temples important? They represent devotion to Surya Dev, the importance of sunlight in human life, and the rich religious and architectural heritage of India.
What is the story behind all these rituals? The rituals related to Surya Dev are based on Hindu mythology and express gratitude to the Sun for providing light, energy, health, food, and life. Chhath Puja: Devotees offer Arghya to the setting and rising Sun to seek blessings for family well-being and prosperity. Makar Sankranti: People celebrate the Sun’s transition into Makara (Capricorn), marking an auspicious period and the harvest season. Ratha Saptami: It celebrates Surya Dev’s symbolic journey across the sky in his seven-horsed chariot. Pongal: Farmers thank Surya Dev for sunlight and a successful harvest. Samba Dashami: According to tradition, Samba, the son of Lord Krishna, worshipped Surya Dev and was cured of leprosy. Ravi Saptami: Devotees worship Surya Dev on a Sunday coinciding with the seventh lunar day, seeking health and prosperity. Surya Jayanti: Celebrated mainly as Ratha Saptami, it symbolizes the appearance or birth of Surya Dev.
In Chhath Puja, devotees stand in water for a long time while offering Arghya to Surya Dev. This ritual symbolizes devotion, purity, patience, and gratitude to the Sun God. Water is considered sacred, and the offering expresses prayers for health, prosperity, and family well-being.
The story behind standing in water during Chhath Puja is rooted in the tradition of worshipping Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya. Devotees stand in rivers or ponds to offer Arghya to the setting and rising Sun as a symbol of devotion, gratitude, purity, and sacrifice, praying for the health and prosperity of their families.
The story behind standing in water during Chhath Puja is rooted in the tradition of worshipping Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya. Devotees stand in rivers or ponds to offer Arghya to the setting and rising Sun as a symbol of devotion, gratitude, purity, and sacrifice, praying for the health and prosperity of their families.