The Aryans, an Indo-European group who migrated to India around 1500 BCE, worshipped a pantheon of deities, primarily associated with natural forces. Some of the most prominent gods included:
- Indra: The king of the gods, known for his strength, power, and association with thunder and storms.
- Agni: The god of fire, representing heat, light, and purification.
- Surya: The sun god, symbolizing life, energy, and cosmic order.
- Varuna: The god of the sky, law, and cosmic order.
- Dyaus: The sky god, representing the heavens and the cosmic realm.
- Prithvi: The earth goddess, representing fertility, nourishment, and the physical world.
The Aryans' religious beliefs, known as Vedic religion, were polytheistic and centered around rituals, sacrifices, and hymns. Their deities were often invoked for protection, prosperity, and success in various aspects of life.
The worship of these gods evolved and integrated with local beliefs over time, contributing to the development of Hinduism.