Also known as: Suryan the Sun God
- Surya is the chief of the Navagrahas, the nine Hindu planets, which are important elements of astrology. He is often depicted riding a chariot harnessed by seven horses, which represent the seven colours of the rainbow and the seven chakras of the body.
- He is also the presiding deity of Sunday.
- Surya is regarded as the Supreme Deity by the Saura sect and Smartas worship Him as one of the five primary forms of God.
Main Festivals Celebrated
- Thaipongal
- Special Prayers at the beginning of every Tamil Month
Associated songs / slokams
Surya Gayathri Manthra:
Om Aswadwajaya Vidhmahe,
Pasa Hasthaya Dheemahe,
Thanno Surya Prachodayath.
Meaning
Om, Let me meditate on the God who has the horse on his flag, Oh, God, who holds the rope, give me higher intellect, and let the Sun God illuminate my mind.
How to Pray
- The best day to pray is Sunday. The special colour is red. The dhanyam (offering) is Wheat. Use red flowers to pray. You can chant the Surya Gayathri Manthra. Prayers will bring good health, particulalry for fathers