Indra
इंद्र • Indra
"The Powerful One; Supreme Ruler"
Category & Classification
Iconography
Attributes & Weapons
- Vajra (Thunderbolt) (Right hand) - His primary weapon; indestructible; power
- Ankusha (Goad) (Sometimes) - Control
- Lotus (Sometimes) - Purity despite worldly involvement
Distinctive Features
- Thousand eyes on body (from curse)
- Golden complexion
- Royal attire and crown
- Mounted on Airavata (white elephant)
- Thunderbolt (Vajra) in hand
Family & Relations
| Origin | Born of Dyaus (Sky) and Prithvi (Earth); or of sage Kashyapa and Aditi |
| Father | Kashyapa (or Dyaus) |
| Mother | Aditi |
| Consort | Shachi (Indrani) |
| Children | Jayanta, Arjuna (as partial incarnation) |
| Siblings | Other Adityas (sun gods) |
Mythology & Stories
Born of Dyaus (Sky) and Prithvi (Earth); or of sage Kashyapa and Aditi
Indra was supreme in Vedic times but is humbled in Puranic literature, representing how ego and power without wisdom leads to fall. He remains king of Svarga but subordinate to Trimurti.
Slaying Vritra
The demon Vritra held all waters captive in his belly, causing drought. Indra, fortified by Soma and armed with the Vajra crafted by Tvashtar, fought and killed Vritra, releasing the waters. This is his greatest Vedic exploit.
Source: Rigveda, Puranas
Parijata and Satyabhama
When Krishna took the Parijata tree from Svarga for Satyabhama, Indra fought Krishna but was defeated. The tree was taken to Dwarka, showing that Indra's power is subordinate to Vishnu.
Source: Bhagavata Purana
Curse of Thousand Eyes
Indra seduced Ahalya, wife of sage Gautama, in the guise of her husband. When discovered, Gautama cursed him with a thousand marks on his body (later turned to eyes by mercy).
Source: Puranic
Govardhana Episode
When the people of Vrindavan stopped worshipping Indra on Krishna's advice, Indra sent devastating rains. Krishna lifted Govardhana mountain to shelter the villagers, humbling Indra.
Source: Bhagavata Purana
Worship & Mantras
Mantras
Om Sahasrakshaya Vidmahe Vajrahastaya Dhimahi Tanno Indra Prachodayat
Om Indraya Namah
Om Purvadikpati Indraya Namah
Offerings
- Soma (in Vedic times)
- Rice
- Ghee
- White flowers
Occasions
- Rain ceremonies
- Directional protection pujas
- Temple consecration (as Dikpala)
- Vastu corrections for East
Temples
Few dedicated temples; worshipped as Dikpala in temple architecture
Astrological Connection
Symbolism & Philosophy
Cosmic Role: King of gods; guardian of East; bringer of rain
| TeachingElement | Even the king of gods has faults; true greatness requires humility |
