Lord Brahma is the Creator god in Hinduism and the first of the Trimurti (trinity of supreme divinity) along with Vishnu (the Preserver) and Shiva (the Destroyer). He is responsible for the creation of the universe, including all living beings. Despite his supreme role in creation, Brahma is rarely worshipped independently today.

Brahma is depicted with four heads facing the four cardinal directions, symbolizing his all-encompassing knowledge and his role in creating the four Vedas. His consort isSaraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music, and arts. He is usually shown seated on a lotus emerging from Lord Vishnu's navel, holding the Vedas, a kamandalu(water pot), a mala (rosary), and a sruva (ladle).

The Cosmic Lotus

According to Hindu cosmology, Brahma was born from a lotus that emerged from Lord Vishnu's navel as Vishnu lay on the cosmic serpent Shesha in the primordial ocean. This image represents the beginning of creation – consciousness (Vishnu) giving rise to creative intelligence (Brahma).

Why Few Brahma Temples Exist

The Pushkar temple in Rajasthan is one of the very few temples dedicated to Brahma. According to legends, when Brahma was performing a yajna (fire sacrifice), his wife Savitri was delayed. Brahma married Gayatri to complete the ritual, which angered Savitri who cursed him that he would not be worshipped on Earth.

The Four Vedas

Brahma is credited with creating the four Vedas – Rigveda, Yajurveda,Samaveda, and Atharvaveda – from his four mouths. These sacred texts form the foundation of Hindu philosophy, rituals, and spirituality.

Brahma's Day and Night

Hindu cosmology describes vast time cycles. One day of Brahma (called a Kalpa) equals 4.32 billion human years. During his day, creation exists; during his night, it dissolves. Brahma lives for 100 such years, after which the entire universe is created anew.