Hindu Traditions
Gods, Goddesses & Sacred Texts
Explore the Trimurti, the Divine Mother, avatars of Vishnu, and the literature that has shaped philosophy and devotion for millennia.
14
Deities catalogued
12
Sacred texts
4
Vedas + epics
Featured
Deities
From the Trimurti to epic heroes and devas
Brahma
Creator of the Universe
Member of the Trimurti who brings the cosmos into being. Though rarely worshipped in temples today, Brahma represents the creative impulse behind all existence.
Vishnu
The Preserver
The sustainer who descends to earth whenever dharma falters. Vishnu's avatars—from fish to prince—embody divine intervention across the ages.
Shiva
The Destroyer & Transformer
Lord of dissolution who clears the way for renewal. Shiva is simultaneously ascetic yogi, cosmic dancer Nataraja, and devoted husband.
Lakshmi
Goddess of Fortune
Bestower of wealth, well-being, and auspiciousness. Lakshmi rose from the churning of the cosmic ocean and chose Vishnu as her eternal consort.
Saraswati
Goddess of Knowledge
Patron of arts, sciences, and eloquence. Saraswati flows as both a river goddess and the divine source of inspiration behind every creative act.
Parvati
Mother of the Universe
Daughter of the mountain king Himavan, Parvati embodies shakti—the active energy without which Shiva remains inert. She is gentle mother and fierce warrior.
Sacred Texts
Vedas, epics, Upanishads, and Puranas
Rigveda
c. 1500–1200 BCE · Vedic Sanskrit
Oldest of the four Vedas, a collection of hymns praising deities, cosmic order (ṛta), and the fire ritual. Foundation of Hindu philosophical and ritual thought.
Yajurveda
c. 1200–900 BCE · Vedic Sanskrit
Prose and verse formulas recited during yajña (sacrificial rituals). Exists in Shukla (White) and Krishna (Black) recensions.
Samaveda
c. 1200–900 BCE · Vedic Sanskrit
Veda of melodies—verses set to music for chanting during soma rituals. Considered the root of Indian classical music traditions.
Atharvaveda
c. 1200–900 BCE · Vedic Sanskrit
Includes hymns, charms, and incantations for healing, protection, and daily life—reflecting popular religion alongside priestly ritual.