Surya is the solar deity, son of Kasyapa and one of his wives Aditi. He presides as “Ravi” over “Ravi-vaara” or Sunday.

Surya is notably mentioned as the visible form of God that one can see every day. Furthermore, Shaivites and Vaishnavas often regard Surya as an aspect of Shiva and Vishnu, respectively. For example, the sun is called Surya Narayana by Vaishnavas. In Shaivite theology, Surya is said to be one of eight forms of Shiva, named the Astamurti.

He is said to be of Sattva Guna and represents the Soul,the King,highly placed persons or fathers. Invoking Gayatri Mantra or Aditya Hrudaya Mantra (Adityahridayam) are known to please the Sun God.

The Sun is called Surya Narayana by Vaishnavas.In Shaivites, Surya is said to be one of eight forms of Shiva,named the Astamurti.