The inner conflict
Those closest to him often could not bear his heat.
- Tradition
- Puranas
- Role
- The sun god
- Family & lineage
- The sun god; son of Kashyapa and Aditi; father of Karna, Yama, Shani and Sugriva.
- Known for
- His chariot of seven horses, the Gayatri mantra, and the Surya Namaskara.
- Central theme
- Light and discipline give life.
The question beneath the legend
“What gives us energy every day?”
Beyond the familiar story
Who was Surya, really?
Why it still matters
Surya Namaskara is practised across the world for health.
The defining moment
He gave Kunti a son, Karna, through Durvasa’s mantra.
A living legacy
Makara Sankranti and Chhath Puja honour the sun.
Life journey
Four defining chapters
- 1
Origins and family
Born to Aditi, he drives the chariot of the sun.
- 2
Rise and relationships
He married Sanjna, and their children include Yama.
- 3
The turning point
He fathered Karna through Kunti.
- 4
Final years and legacy
He is worshipped daily at sunrise.
“Light and discipline give life.”
— The heart of Surya’s story
Read more about Surya
Yoga, Meditation & Health
Surya Namaskara: A Simple Guide to the Twelve Steps
Twelve flowing postures, linked with the breath, that greet the sun and wake up the whole body. Here is how to begin safely.
Connected lives
No story stands alone
Surya’s journey continues through the people around them.
