Question

Give a brief account of principal deities of the Vedic pantheon.

Hint:

Focus on how Vedic rituals and deities influenced Indian religious practices and social structures.

Answer 1

The Vedic pantheon was characterized by the worship of natural forces and cosmic principles. Key deities included Indra, the god of rain and thunder, revered for his strength and leadership; Agni, the fire god, who acted as a mediator between humans and gods during sacrifices; Varuna, the custodian of cosmic order and morality; and Surya, the sun god, symbolizing life and vitality. These deities were worshipped through elaborate rituals and hymns found in the Rigveda. The Vedic pantheon reflects the agrarian lifestyle and philosophical outlook of early Indian society.