Common questions about IAS, our mission, and how you can be part of this spiritual movement.
Famous Sun temples (Surya Mandirs) in the world include:
1. Konark Sun Temple — Odisha, India.
2. Modhera Sun Temple — Gujarat, India.
3. Deo Sun Temple — Bihar, India.
4. Martand Sun Temple — Jammu and Kashmir, India.
5. Dakshinaarka Sun Temple — Gaya, Bihar, India.
6. Sun Temple of Multan — Pakistan; an important historic Sun temple, now lost.
Yes, some people still perform Surya Puja to pray for a son, following traditional Hindu beliefs. In ancient stories, worship of Surya Dev was sometimes associated with blessings for children and fertility.
However, today people also worship the Sun for good health, prosperity, happiness, and the well-being of their families. 🙏☀️
According to Hindu Puranic cosmology, the Sun travels around Mount Manasottara, a mountain associated with the cosmic geography of the world. This describes the Sun’s movement in traditional Hindu cosmology, not its scientifically observed orbit. ☀️
The Sun appears to move from east to west because Earth rotates on its axis. According to Hindu Puranic tradition, Surya Dev travels across the sky in a chariot driven by Aruna.
According to Hindu Puranas, Surya Dev’s chariot moves around Mount Meru, crossing the sky from east to west. It is driven by Aruna and pulled by seven horses representing the Sun’s rays or the seven colours of light in some traditional interpretations. ☀️
According to Hindu Puranas, Surya Dev’s chariot has one wheel, seven horses, and Aruna as its charioteer.
- Seven horses: Represent the seven metres of Vedic hymns and are also popularly associated with the seven colours of sunlight.
- One wheel: Symbolises time and the cycle of the year.
- Aruna: The charioteer who guides the Sun God.
- Surya Dev: Travels across the sky, providing light and energy to the world. ☀️