Lord Brahma
ब्रह्मा — The Creator
Iconography & Symbolism
Four heads (originally five — Shiva cut one off) facing the four directions, representing the 4 Vedas. Four arms holding the Vedas, a kamandalu (water pot), a mala (rosary), and a lotus. Red or golden complexion. Long white beard signifying wisdom and age of creation.
Story & Mythology
Brahma was born from a golden egg (Hiranyagarbha) or from a lotus growing from Vishnu's navel. He created Saraswati from his own being and, captivated by her beauty, grew a fifth head to watch her constantly. Shiva (as Bhairava) cut off the fifth head to teach humility. Brahma also declared himself supreme, angering Shiva — who cursed that Brahma would rarely be worshipped on earth.
Sacred Mantras
Major Temples
- 🛕Brahma Temple, Pushkar (Rajasthan) — the only major Brahma temple in the world
- 🛕Brahmapureeswarar Temple, Kumbakonam (Tamil Nadu)
- 🛕Asotra Brahma Temple, Barmer (Rajasthan)