Aditi — deity of Punarvasu

Astrologically Punarvasu is the seventh star. But in the Vedas, it is in the fifth place, said V.S. Karunakarachariar, in a discourse. The Vedas begin with the star Krittika and end with Bharani. Ther

Astrologically Punarvasu is the seventh star. But in the Vedas, it is in the fifth place, said V.S. Karunakarachariar, in a discourse. The Vedas begin with the star Krittika and end with Bharani. There are two mantras for Punarvasu. For each star there is a deity, and for Punarvasu it is Aditi.

The request made through the mantras is that Aditi must be affectionate to those who honour Punarvasu. Punarvasu is a combination of two stars — Punah and Vasu. The Vedas pray that Aditi should come repeatedly to bless those who worship Punarvasu. Aditi does not get tired of coming to bless people, because she has the kindness of a mother.

Who is Aditi? The Vedas give us an idea of the role Aditi played in making the earth habitable and beautiful. Originally, the earth had no vegetation. Bhooma Devi wanted the earth to look appealing. So, she prayed to Lakshmi, also called Aditi, on a day when the star was Punarvasu. As a result, the Earth became covered with greenery. If one worships Aditi on Punarvasu, then one will be blessed with children and grandchildren.