Anumati (deity)

Indian mythology is rich with stories and legends about various deities and goddesses who play an important role in Hindu religion. One such goddess is Anumati, who is worshipped as the goddess of the moon and the stars. In this article, we will explore the different aspects of Anumati, including her origins, characteristics, and significance in Hindu mythology.

Who is Anumati?

Anumati is an ancient goddess of the Hindu pantheon, worshipped mainly in the northern regions of India. She is known as the goddess of the moon and the stars and is associated with fertility, prosperity, and good fortune. According to Hindu mythology, she is the sister of Lord Vishnu and the wife of Vivasvat, the god of the sun.

When was Anumati born?

Anumati is one of the oldest goddesses in Hindu mythology, and her origins can be traced back to the Vedic period. She is mentioned in the Rig Veda, one of the oldest religious texts in the world, where she is referred to as "Anumati, daughter of Daksha."

Why was Anumati worshipped?

Anumati was worshipped as the goddess of the moon and the stars, and her cult was prevalent in the ancient times when people relied on the moon and stars for their daily lives. She was also worshipped as a fertility goddess who blessed women with healthy children and ensured the prosperity of their families.

How was Anumati born?

According to Hindu mythology, Anumati was born as the daughter of Daksha, one of the Prajapatis (creators) of the universe. She was born along with 26 other daughters of Daksha, who were married off to the Saptarishis, the seven great sages of the Vedic period.

Names of Anumati

Anumati is known by many names in Hindu mythology, including Anumati Devi, Anumati Ma, Anumati Mata, and Anumati Devata.

Wife and children of Anumati

Anumati is said to be the wife of Vivasvat, the god of the sun, and the mother of Yama, the god of death, and Yamuna, the river goddess.

Features and characteristics of Anumati

Anumati is often depicted as a beautiful goddess with a radiant face and a gentle smile. She is usually shown riding a chariot pulled by two horses, representing the moon and the stars. In some depictions, she is shown holding a lotus flower or a cornucopia, symbolizing fertility and abundance.

Works and Blessings of Anumati

Anumati is worshipped for her ability to bless her devotees with prosperity, good fortune, and fertility. She is also believed to be the protector of travelers and to offer guidance to those who seek her blessings. In some regions of India, she is worshipped as the goddess of smallpox, and her blessings are sought to ward off the disease.

Wars of Anumati

Anumati is not associated with any wars or battles in Hindu mythology.

Worship of Anumati

Anumati is worshipped mainly in the northern regions of India, particularly in the states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Her worship is often associated with the worship of the moon and the stars and is performed on the full moon day of each month. Devotees offer prayers and light candles and incense to seek her blessings and protection.

Conclusion

Anumati is an ancient goddess of Hindu mythology, worshipped as the goddess of the moon and the stars, and the protector of travelers. Her blessings are sought for prosperity, good fortune, and fertility, and her worship is prevalent in the northern regions of India. She is an important figure in Hindu mythology and is revered for her gentle and benevolent nature. Anumati's role as a fertility goddess highlights the importance of fertility and abundance in Hindu culture, and her association with the moon and stars speaks to the reverence that the ancient Indians had for celestial bodies. As with many Hindu deities, Anumati's story is rich and complex, reflecting the deep cultural and religious history of India. Her worship continues to this day, and her presence remains an important part of the Hindu pantheon.