Hindu Gods

Hinduism is one of the religions rich in diversity of Hindu gods and goddesses, each with their own personality, symbolism and purpose. From the gurus and Brahmins that teach the sacred scriptures, to the devotees who chant the Om mantra at ashrams and temples, the connection with the divine is experienced through various forms. In this article, I introduce you to some of the most revered gods of the Hindu pantheon, exploring its appearance, temples, legends and more, always keeping in mind the meaning of their symbols and sacred codes. I invite you to get to know these deities, each with a unique function in the vast Hindu mythology.

Brahma

Symbology: Brahma is the god creator of the universe (one of the Hindu gods that form the trimurti).
What it represents: Creation and cosmic knowledge.
Appearance: Brahma is easily recognizable by its four heads representing the four Vedas and the four cardinal directions, indicating their omniscience. Each of its heads is constantly reciting the Vedas, in a cycle of infinite creation. In addition, it has four arms holding sacred objects: a rosary, a book, a water jar and a lotus, all symbols of knowledge and wisdom. He wears royal robes and is adorned with golden jewels, showing his divine status.
Dedicated temples:

• Brahma Temple in Pushkar, Rajasthan. This is one of the few temples dedicated to Brahma in all of India, and its location by Pushkar Lake makes it an important pilgrimage site.

Symbols: The Vedas, the lotus, the rosary.
Books: The Vedas,The sacred texts of Hinduism.
Mantras: "Om Brahmaya Namaha".
Avatars: Brahma has no specific avatars.
In mythology/legends: Brahma was born from a lotus that sprang from the navel of Vishnu and was responsible for creating the universe. In mythology, he is often portrayed as the origin of time and the cycle of birth and death.

Vishnu

Symbology: Vishnu is the god preserver and protector of the universe (he is one of the Hindu gods that form the trimurti).
What it represents: Preservation and justice.
Appearance: Vishnu is usually depicted with colored skin in dark blue, symbolizing its infinity and its connection with the sky and the ocean. It has four arms, and he holds a disc (chakra), a snail, a mace and a lotus flower, symbols of his power and control over the universe. He often appears seated or reclining on Shesha, the cosmic serpent, with his consort Lakshmi at his feet.
Dedicated temples:

• Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. This temple is one of the richest and most visited, and Vishnu is worshipped here as the wish-granting deity.

Symbols: The disc, the snail, the lotus flower.
Books: "Vishnu Purana" and "Bhagavad Gita".
Mantras: "Om Namo Narayanaya".
Avatars: Vishnu has ten avatars (Dashavatara), the most famous being Branch and Krishna.
In mythology/legends: Vishnu has descended in multiple incarnations to restore dharma, divine justice, at critical moments of humanity. In one of his most famous legends, he incarnated as a Krishna, whose central role in the epics of the Mahabharata and the Bhagavad Gita, makes it a pillar of Hinduism.

Shiva

Symbology: Shiva is the god the destroyer and transformer (one of the Hindu gods that form the trimurti).
What it represents: Transformation, meditation and liberation.
Appearance: Shiva is one of the most complex gods and is represented with multiple symbols. His skin is of a ash blue, result of drinking poison to save the world during the Samudra Manthan (the upheaval of the ocean). He wears a snake wrapped around his neck, representing power over death and time, and his third eye, in the center of his forehead, is symbolic of his transcendental perception. In his hand he holds a trident (trishul), symbolizing its ability to destroy ignorance, illusion and evil.
Dedicated temples:

• Kedarnath Temple in Uttarakhand, one of the holiest temples in India and part of the Char Dham pilgrimage.

Symbols: The lingam, the trident (trishul), the drum (damaru).
Books: "Shiva Purana".
Mantras: "Om Namah Shivaya."
Avatars: Although Shiva does not have avatars in the same form as Vishnu, he does manifest as Natarajathe Lord of the Cosmic Dance.
In mythology/legends: Shiva is the god of destructive power that precedes regeneration. In one of his most famous manifestations, such as Nataraja, the Cosmic Dance , to destroy the universe and allow its renewal. This symbolizes the eternal cycle of creation and destruction.

Durga

Symbology: Durga is the warrior goddess and protective.
What it represents: The victory of good over evil, feminine strength.
Appearance: Durga is portrayed with multiple arms,usually eight or ten, each holding different weapons, symbolizing their invincible power over the forces of evil. She mounts a lion or a tiger.She wears a golden crown and red attire that symbolizes her energy and divine power. Her expression is serene despite her warlike nature, indicating her balance between strength and compassion.
Dedicated temples:

• Vaishno Devi in Jammu, one of the most important temples for the goddess, known to attract millions of pilgrims annually.

Symbols: The trident, the sword, the lion.
Books: "Durga Saptashati".
Mantras: "Om Dum Durgaye Namaha."
Avatars: Durga has many forms, including Kali and Parvati.
In mythology/legends: Durga's most famous legend tells of her victory over the demon Mahishasura,who could not be defeated by any man or god. Durga defeated him after a fierce battle that lasted nine days, which gave birth to the festival of Navratri,where the victory of good over evil is celebrated.

Lakshmi

Symbology: Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
What it represents: Abundance, good fortune and beauty.
Appearance: She is depicted seated or standing on a lotus flower,symbolizing purity and detachment from materialism. It is generally shown with four armsholding lotus flowers and gold coins flowing from her hands, indicating the wealth and prosperity she showers on her devotees. Her expression is soft and calm, and she is often accompanied by elephants, representing abundance and fertility.
Dedicated temples:

• Lakshmi Narayan Temple in Delhi, also known as Birla Mandir, one of the most popular temples dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi and her consort Vishnu.

Symbols: The lotus, the gold coins, the elephants.
Books: "Lakshmi Sahasranama."
Mantras: "Om Shreem Mahalakshmiye Namaha".
Avatars: Lakshmi is the consort of Vishnu and accompanies him in all his incarnations.
In mythology/legends: Lakshmi emerged from the ocean of milk during Samudra Manthan, bringing abundance and fortune. It is believed that whoever worships Lakshmi during the festival of Diwali will be blessed with prosperity and success.

Ganesha

Symbology: Ganesha is the elephant-headed god,known as the obstacle remover.
What it represents: Wisdom, prosperity and success.
Appearance: Ganesha is easily identifiable by its elephant's head,symbolizing the wisdom.

He has a human body with a large abdomen, which represents his ability to digest both the good and the bad in life. He holds an axe, a rope and a sweet in his hands, each representing his ability to cut through obstacles, attract devotion and bestow sweet blessings.
Dedicated temples:

• Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai, one of the most famous and visited temples in India, dedicated to Ganesha.

Symbols: Elephant's head, axe, sweets (modak).
Books: "Ganesha Purana".
Mantras: "Om Gan Ganapataye Namaha".
Avatars: Ganesha has several forms, but is better known as Vinayaka and Ekadanta.
In mythology/legends: Ganesha was created by Parvati from mud and was accidentally decapitated by Shiva. To save him, Shiva placed the head of an elephant on him, giving him his characteristic appearance and an important place in the Hindu pantheon.

Saraswati

Symbology: Saraswati is the goddess of knowledge,music and the arts.
What it represents: Wisdom, creativity and truth.
Appearance: Saraswati is represented with white skinwhich symbolizes purity and pure knowledge. It has four arms and usually holds a veena (musical instrument), a sacred book and a rosary, representing art, learning and meditation, respectively. She wears a white sari, which reinforces her connection to pure and divine knowledge.
Dedicated temples:

• Gnana Saraswati Temple in Basar, Telangana, an important learning center where children are taken to perform the Aksharabhyasam ritual, their first step in education.

Symbols: The book, the vein, the swan.
Books: "Saraswati Stotra".
Mantras: "Om Aim Saraswatyai Namaha".
Avatars: Saraswati has no avatars, but is the consort of Brahma.
In mythology/legends: Saraswati assisted Brahma in the creation of the universe by bestowing upon him the knowledge necessary to bring it about. Her role is crucial in maintaining the cosmic order through knowledge and wisdom.

Hanuman

Symbology: Hanuman is the monkey god,symbol of courage, devotion and strength.
What it represents: Loyalty, physical and spiritual strength, and selfless service.
Appearance: Hanuman is represented with a robust and muscular body,with a monkey face symbolizing his ape-like origin. He is often shown with a gada (mace) in his hand, symbol of his physical strength. He is also portrayed opening his chest to reveal the image of Rama and Sita,which demonstrates his absolute devotion. His eyes are full of determination, and his posture is firm, reflecting his readiness for service and battle.
Dedicated temples:

• Hanuman Garhi Temple in Ayodhya, one of the most important dedicated to Hanuman, known for its iconic statue of the god in a posture of devotion.

Symbols: The gada, the long tail, the open chest showing Rama and Sita.
Books: "Ramayana" (Valmiki).
Mantras: "Om Hanumate Namaha".
Avatars: Hanuman has no avatars, but is considered an embodiment of perfect devotion.
In mythology/legends: Hanuman is famous for his role in the Ramayana,where it helps Branch to rescue Sita from the clutches of the demon Ravana. One of his most famous feats was when he flew over the ocean to find Sita, demonstrating his loyalty and power.

Krishna

Symbology: Krishna is the incarnation of Vishnu, and a central god in Hinduism.
What it represents: Divine love, joy and dharma.
Appearance: Krishna is usually portrayed with dark blue skin or black, a color symbolizing divine mystery. He is shown as a young shepherd boy playing a flute,representing spiritual attraction. He wears golden garments and wears a crown adorned with peacock feathers, reflecting his connection to nature and beauty. He is often accompanied by cows, symbolizing his life as a shepherd and protector of animals.
Dedicated temples:

• Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple in Mathura, Krishna's birthplace and one of the most important temples dedicated to him.

Symbols: The flute, the peacock feather, the cows.
Books: "Bhagavad Gita" (Vyasa).
Mantras: "Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare."
Avatars: Krishna is considered the eighth avatar of Vishnu.
In mythology/legends: Krishna is the protagonist of the Bhagavad Gita,where he guides Arjuna in the battle of Kurukshetra, teaching him about dharma and devotion. In addition, his love story with Radha is a symbol of spiritual and devotional love.

Branch

Symbology: Rama is another incarnation of Vishnu,known for his nobility and justice.
What it represents: Dharma, righteousness and devotion.
Appearance: Rama is represented with blue skin and royal bearing. He carries a bow and arrows, symbolizing his strength as a warrior and his ability to protect his devotees. His expression is calm and serene, showing his fair and balanced nature. He is always accompanied by his faithful wife Sita and his brother Lakshmana,that represent the devotion for the family.
Dedicated temples:

• Ramanathaswamy Temple at Rameswaram, one of the holiest temples in honor of Rama, part of the Char Dham pilgrimage.

Symbols: The bow and arrows, the royal crown.
Books: "Ramayana" (Valmiki).
Mantras: "Om Shri Ramaya Namaha".
Avatars: Rama is the seventh avatar of Vishnu.
In mythology/legends: Rama is the protagonist of the Ramayana,one of the most important epics of Hinduism. In this story, Rama, with the help of Hanuman and his army of monkeys, rescues Sita from the demon Ravana, representing the victory of good over evil.

Parvati

Symbology: Parvati is the mother goddess and consort of Shiva.
What it represents: Fertility, feminine power and devotion.
Appearance: Parvati is usually depicted with a clear and smooth skin.She is dressed in colorful attire that reflects her loving and maternal nature. She wears ornate jewelry and is often shown next to Shiva or with their children, Ganesha and Kartikeya. Her gaze is serene, symbolizing her compassionate nature, but she also possesses a powerful posture, reflecting her connection to the feminine force.
Dedicated temples:

• Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, one of the most important temples, where Parvati is worshipped as Meenakshi.

Symbols: Lotus flower, weapons in her hands like Durga.
Books: "Shiva Purana".
Mantras: "Om Parvatyai Namaha".
Avatars: Parvati has many forms, including Durga and Kali.
In mythology/legends: Parvati is seen as the force that balances and complements Shiva, representing feminine power and control over the cosmos.

Kali

Symbology: Kali is the fierce goddess which represents the destruction of evil and liberation.
What it represents: The death of the ego and transformation.
Appearance: Kali is described as having a fearsome aspect: her black skin symbolizes cosmic emptiness and the dissolution of time. It carries a garland of skulls and a skirt of severed arms, representing her dominion over death and ego. Her tongue protrudes, and her gaze is intense, reflecting her destructive nature. She holds a sword in one hand and the head of a demon in another, showing her victory over evil.
Dedicated temples:

• Kalighat Temple in Kolkata, one of the most important temples dedicated to Kali.

Symbols: The garland of skulls, the sword.
Books: "Kalika Purana"
Mantras: "Om Krim Kalikayai Namaha".
Avatars: Kali is a form of Durga.
In mythology/legends: In one of the best-known legends, Kali emerged from the fury of Durga to destroy the demon Raktabija. Each drop of his blood created a new demon, but Kali devoured his blood before it touched the ground, putting an end to the evil.

Surya

Symbology: Surya is the sun god.
What it represents: Energy, vitality and life.
Appearance: Surya is depicted as a strong and radiant man, riding on a golden chariot pulled by seven horses,symbolizing the seven days of the week and the colors of the rainbow. Her body emits a golden glow, and she wears a crown that glows in the sunlight. Her expression is serious but fair, indicating her power over the cycle of life and time.
Dedicated temples:

• Temple of the Sun in Konark, Odisha, a masterpiece of Indian architecture and one of the most revered temples dedicated to Surya.

Symbols: The sun, the chariot with seven horses.
Books: "Surya Namaskar" (a yoga sequence).
Mantras: "Om Suryaya Namaha".
Avatars: Surya has no avatars, but is considered a manifestation of Brahman.
In mythology/legends: Surya is the father of several important mythological characters, including Karna and Sugriva. He is worshipped daily in the Surya Namaskar,a series of yoga postures that honor your energy.

Indra

Symbology: Indra is the king of the gods and god of lightning and rain.
What it represents: Strength, power and protection.
Appearance: Indra is described with a head adorned with a crown of gold, wielding a vajra (lightning) in one hand. He has a regal and strong appearance, with a muscular physique and a dominant posture. He is often depicted riding his elephant. Airavata,symbolizing its connection to power and strength.
Dedicated temples:

• Indreshwar Temple in Nepal, an ancient temple dedicated to Indra.

Symbols: The lightning, the elephant Airavata.
Books: "Rigveda" (one of the main hymns is dedicated to Indra).
Mantras: "Om Indraya Namaha".
Avatars: Indra has no avatars, but is a central figure in Vedic mythology.
In mythology/legends: Indra is famous for his fight against the devil Vritra,who held the water of the world captive. Using his thunderbolt, Indra defeated him, releasing the waters and bringing rain to the world.

Varuna

Symbology: Varuna is the god of the waters and the guardian of cosmic order.
What it represents: Natural laws, truth, and justice.
Appearance: Varuna is depicted as a majestic man, with a rope or loop (pasha) in his hand, a symbol of his control over the waters and the cosmos. He has a robust build and wears royal robes that flow like water. He is often shown mounted on a makara (mythical creature half crocodile and half fish), symbolizing his dominion over the oceans and rivers. His face is serene, yet powerful, reflecting his role as guardian of the cosmic balance.
Dedicated temples:

• Varun Dev Temple in Karachi, Pakistan, is one of the few temples dedicated to Varuna and is known to be an ancient pilgrimage site.

Symbols: The rope or loop, the makara.
Books: "Rigveda" (many hymns are dedicated to Varuna).
Mantras: "Om Varunaya Namaha".
Avatars: Varuna has no avatars, but is one of the most important deities in the Vedic texts.
In mythology/legends: Varuna is seen as the king of the gods prior to Indra and is described as the supreme judge of human actions. A popular legend portrays him as the god who maintains the balance between the earth and the heavens,ensuring that the water cycle flows smoothly, and punishing those who disturb it.

Agni

Symbology: Agni is the god of fire and messenger between gods and humans.
What it represents: Purification, sacrifice, and divine energy.
Appearance: Agni is depicted with two heads, both engulfed in flames, symbolizing his dual nature as a destroyer and purifier. Its body is red like fire and emits heat, and it has seven languages,representing the flames that devour the offerings. He is often shown riding a ram, reflecting his connection to ritual sacrifices. His appearance is fierce but vital, as he acts as the bridge between humans and heaven.
Dedicated temples:

• There are not many temples dedicated exclusively to Agni, but in each of the havan (fire ceremony)He is invoked as an essential part of Hindu rituals.

Symbols: The fire, the seven tongues.
Books: "Rigveda" (one of the most praised gods).
Mantras: "Om Agnaye Namaha."
Avatars: Agni has no avatars, but is omnipresent in Hindu rituals.
In mythology/legends: Agni plays a crucial role in the vedic rituals,where he transports the offerings of humans to the gods. In a famous legend, Agni helped the gods to defeat the demon. Taraka burning it with its purifying flames.

Yama

Symbology: Yama is the god of death and the guardian of the underworld.
What it represents: Death, judgment and the cycle of life.
Appearance: Yama is depicted with a stern appearance, often riding on a buffalosymbolizing the strength and inevitability of death. It carries a rope (pasha) to capture the souls of the dead, and his face is somber but fair, reflecting his role as a judge of karma. His eyes shine with the wisdom of those who understand the cycle of life and death, and his dark skin symbolizes the night that awaits all at the end of life.
Dedicated temples:

• Yama Dharmaraja Temple in Srivanchiyam, Tamil Nadu, where Yama is worshipped as the god of dharma and death.

Symbols: The rope, the buffalo.
Books: "Garuda Purana.
Mantras: "Om Yamaya Namaha".
Avatars: Yama has no avatars, but his role is fundamental in the judgment of souls.
In mythology/legends: Yama is the first mortal to die, thus becoming the first mortal to die. lord of death. A famous legend tells how Yama judges the souls in his hall of the underworld according to their actions on earth, offering rewards or punishments based on karma.

Vayu

Symbology: Vayu is the god of the wind and vital breath.
What it represents: Life, movement and energy.
Appearance: Vayu is depicted as a strong man with a muscular body, symbolizing the power of the wind. Often he is shown flying or riding on a antelope,representing the swiftness and agility of the air. His hair is always in the wind, and his robes billow behind him, reflecting his volatile nature. His eyes are full of energy, and his body radiates vitality, symbolizing the breath that gives life to all creatures.
Dedicated temples:

• Although Vayu does not have many temples dedicated exclusively to him, he is invoked in rituals as part of the five sacred elements (panchabhutas).

Symbols: The wind, the antelope.
Books: "Mahabharata" (where Vayu is father of Bhima).
Mantras: "Om Vayuve Namaha."
Avatars: Vayu has no specific avatars, but his energy is considered to manifest in all life.
In mythology/legends: Vayu is the Hanuman's father,the monkey god, and also of Bhimaone of the heroes of the Mahabharata. In a famous story, when Hanuman was a child, he tried to devour the sun thinking it was a fruit. Vayu, seeing that his son had been punished by the gods, withdrew all the air from the world until the gods released Hanuman.

Kubera

Symbology: Kubera is the god of wealth and the treasure.
What it represents: Material prosperity and fair distribution of resources.
Appearance: Kubera is depicted as a stocky man of short stature, with a protruding belly,symbolizing his opulence and wealth. He is usually adorned with gold jewelry and carries a bag full of treasures. He has a smiling face and a relaxed attitude, reflecting his satisfaction with life.
Dedicated temples:

• Kubera Temple in Alangudi, Tamil Nadu, is one of the few temples dedicated to this god.

Symbols: The bag of gold, the treasures.
Books: "Mahabharata".
Mantras: "Om Kuberaya Namaha".
Avatars: Kubera has no avatars, but is considered the guardian of wealth.
In mythology/legends: Kubera is known as the king of the yakshas,Kubera is the guardian of treasures, and is also the protector of subway riches. In legend, Kubera was stripped of his splendid palace on Mount Kailash by his stepbrother, Ravana,but finally recovered it with the help of the gods.

Chandra

Symbology: Chandra is the god of the moon.
What it represents: Mind, intuition, and fertility.
Appearance: Chandra is portrayed as a handsome young man with a silver leather reflecting the moonlight. He is often shown riding a chariot pulled by antelopes or white horses, symbolizing purity and calm. Her expression is serene, and she wears a crescent-shaped crown on her head.
Dedicated temples:

• Chandra Temple in Bhaktapur, Nepal, is one of the few temples dedicated to Chandra.

Symbols: The moon, the silver car.
Books: "Mahabharata".
Mantras: "Om Chandraya Namaha".
Avatars: Chandra has no avatars, but is an important deity in Vedic astrology.
In mythology/legends: One of the best-known legends is the story of how Chandra was cursed by the sage Daksha for his behavior with his daughters, and how that curse caused him an illness that could only be cured by immersing himself in the sacred waters of the Saraswati River.

These are just some of the most important gods and goddesses of Hinduism. Each of them not only has a rich iconography, but also profound spiritual and moral lessons that continue to be relevant today in Hindu culture.