“Aditya” derives from the Sanskrit root “Aditi,” which refers to a primordial cosmic mother in Vedic tradition. Aditi is considered the mother of all gods and is often associated with boundless space and the infinite. The Adityas, therefore, are her celestial offspring, embodying various aspects of divine order and cosmic principles.

Generally, Adityas are twelve in number and consist of Vivasvan (Surya), Aryaman, Tvashta, Savitr, Bhaga, Dhata, Mitra, Varuna, Amsa, Pushan, Indra and Vishnu (in the form of Vamana). Every zodiac sign is connected to an Aditya.

While the Adityas play a crucial role in the Vedic texts, their influence extends into later Hindu traditions. In epic narratives like the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, the Adityas are often referenced, and their attributes are reflected in the characters and themes of these epics.

The Gayatri mantra, one of the most sacred Vedic hymns is dedicated to Savitr, one of the principal Ādityas. The Adityas are a group of solar deities, from the Brahmana period numbering twelve. The ritual of Surya Namaskaram, performed by Hindus, is an elaborate set of hand gestures and body movements, designed to greet and revere the Sun.

The name Aditya, in the singular, refers to the sun god Surya.