Planet Sun in Astrology has a special significance in Vedic Astrology and in Hinduism. Sun is the main source of energy and light on planet Earth. Astronomically, it is a “Father of Stars” and very nearest to our mother planet “Earth”. It is largest among all planets. It is considered as a centre of entire solar system. Though it is a star astronomically but it is considered as Planet in Vedic Astrology and an important planet while analysing the birth chart.
In Hindu tradition, the Sun is revered as the divine entity “Surya Dev” – the life-giver. It is a powerful celestial body that signifies “Prana” (life force), symbolizing the “Soul” in Vedic Astrology. Devotees offer prayers to the Sun thrice daily and perform rituals like Surya Namaskar on Sundays to restore vitality and eyesight.
As per ancient scriptures, Lord Brahma surveyed the universe in four directions, creating the four seasons and elements – Fire, Earth, Air, and Water. The Sun governs Sunday, the first day of the week, representing leadership and prominence.
In Western astrology, the Sun is known as “Apollo,” considered the child of Jupiter and Latona, and sibling to Diana. It holds a similar role in signifying brilliance, energy, and individuality.
In Hindu beliefs, each time the Sun transitions into a new zodiac sign (Surya Sankranti), the moment is considered spiritually powerful and ideal for religious rituals. These transitions mark solar months in the Panchang (Hindu calendar).
The Sun, unlike other planets, does not retrograde and completes its journey through the zodiac in one solar year. It is the cosmic spirit and is honored as the soul of “Kaal Purusha” (cosmic being).
Sun represents leadership, energy, and hope. It is a symbol of positivity and self-realization. Some of its many names in Sanskrit include: Aditya, Bhanu, Arka, Ravi, Surya, and Thapana.
Along with the Moon, the Sun is one of the two celestial luminaries that illuminate the universe. It governs the breath of life—both inhalation and exhalation—fueling existence with vitality and strength.
The Sun is masculine, hot, dry, and positive in nature. It is associated with the deity Agni (God of Fire). The Sun rules the eastern direction and the “Grishma” (summer) season, particularly the months of June and July. Its representative color is a deep orange or “Kanakambaram.” It is linked to metals like gold and copper.
In a person’s birth chart, the Sun signifies the “Father” and, in a woman’s chart, also denotes the “Husband.” It represents authority, leadership, and roles connected to power and governance. It is the planet of status, command, and administrative power.
Physical Traits: Individuals strongly influenced by the Sun typically have broad, round faces and may be born with Leo rising or on a Sunday. Their eyes are often honey-colored. The Sun governs the heart and represents the right eye in men and the left eye in women.
Health Influences: Afflictions to the Sun may result in heart ailments, eye disorders, or conditions like typhoid, fever, meningitis, and skin issues. For instance, when afflicted by Saturn, it may cause low blood pressure, and with Jupiter, high blood pressure.
A positively placed Sun brings strong willpower, clarity, intuition, and a sense of purpose. It promotes self-awareness and inner strength.
Strong Sun: A favorable placement boosts confidence, optimism, and the ability to succeed. It brings charisma, recognition, and leadership abilities.
Benefic Sun: Blesses one with ambition, intelligence, courage, energy, fame, nobility, kindness, vitality, and moral integrity.
Afflicted Sun: Can lead to arrogance, egoism, jealousy, anger, selfishness, and overambition.
The Sun governs professions that involve status, authority, and permanence. It signifies government roles, positions of leadership, and independent businesses, especially those connected to the father. Its influence changes with planetary aspects and conjunctions.
Sunday is the day associated with the Sun, and it becomes especially significant during the Sun’s Mahadasha. The Sun rules the zodiac sign Leo and finds exaltation in Aries.
Recommended gemstones for strengthening Sun’s energy include Ruby and, in some cases, Diamond.
In both Astrology and Astronomy, the Sun remains a cornerstone of life and vitality. It is the universal source of light and hope—guiding, healing, and energizing all life on Earth.