Guest Article - Indian Mythology Series: Revanta

Sun, one of the primordial elements of Nature, is present as a revered deity in so many cultures. He is considered a life-giver and as many of us know and understand today is also known to cause heat waves. His role in Indian mythology is rather important and has a well-established cult in the country. We have very beautiful and elaborately planned temples dedicated to Surya. There’s more to Surya than just a life source and heat waves. Surya, according to Vishnu, Matsya, Kurma, Markandeya and Devi Bhagavata Puranas has an entire family tree, with wives and children. The solar deity is the father to many of minor deities like Manu, Yama, Yami, Shani, etc. The youngest of his children is Revanta or Raivata.   

Mythology

It is common to note that Indian deities are known to shape-shift and Surya is no exception. According to the story, his wife Saranya or Sanjna is said to have been unable to bear the heat of Surya (just like the summer months of today) and took the form of a mare and went deep into the woods for austerities. Surya having found her location, turned into a horse and followed her there. This union is said to have resulted in three children – the Asvini twins and their brother Revanta. The twins are assigned to the health department and are the doctors to the Devas whereas Revanta is given the duty of being a protector of horses. 

Many textual sources refer to Revanta as the guardian deity of the Guhyaka tribe. These beings are known to be nature spirits who serve under Kubera and help him protect his hidden treasures. The name when translated means ‘hidden ones’. According to the Ramayana, these beings are a class of Yakshas or supernatural beings with specific powers who are assigned specific roles and duties. They are known to live in deep forests and protect people from any negative energies. The text, Asvasastra, talks about praying to Revanta as he protects all horses from harm. He is also closely associated with a small group of people of the Saura sect, who worship Surya as their primordial deity. They are similar to Mitra worshippers of Iran. 

Iconography

According to the Puranas, Revanta is seen riding a horse and holding a sword in his right hand and a bow slung over his shoulders. Some images from medieval to later medieval periods show the deity with a lance. He is surrounded by attendants, one of whom is holding an umbrella over his head. A few others also have their swords drawn as if in protection. The scene is interpreted as a hunting scene or in protection mode. The images of Revanta are found in many parts of western and eastern India from 6th century CE onwards till about the early medieval period (age of the Kalachuri dynasty). The images always have a dog near the right foot, possibly biting the boot. Markandeya Purana states that Revanta wears armour. Similarly, Kalika Purana describes the deity with a sword in a sheath and a whip in his hand. Apart from these descriptions, some images even show a cup held in his right hand. 

There is a certain mystery surrounding many of the prominent deities in the Hindu pantheon. It only makes us want to know about them even more. Although, Revanta is related to the Sun, we can’t place all the blame for the heatwaves on him, can we?   

- Ms. Shreedevi R, Independent Research Scholar

Image Source: Wikipedia page on Revanta

Image Source: Arya-Akasha