Question map
Which one of the following Vedic god/ goddess depicts an association with the Sun?
Explanation
In the Vedic pantheon, Pūṣan (Pusan) is a significant solar deity who embodies nourishment, prosperity, and protection [t1][t5]. Derived from the Sanskrit root 'puṣ' (to nourish), he is one of the Ādityas, a group of solar deities, and is frequently mentioned in the Rigveda as a sustainer and feeder of the world [t8]. While other deities like the Ashvins are associated with the predawn light and dawn [t2], and Indra is the god of thunder and rain [t3], Pūṣan specifically represents the sun's life-sustaining qualities and acts as a guide for travelers and souls [t6][t8]. Aranyani, by contrast, is a Vedic forest goddess [t2]. Pūṣan's solar nature is further emphasized by his role as a messenger of the Sun god, Surya, and his depiction with golden attributes reflecting the sun's brilliance [t5][t6].