A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.1335

c5.1335

PARJANYA. 1. A Vedic deity, the rain-god or rain personified. Three hymns in the Rig-veda are addressed to this deity, and one of them is very poetical and picturesque in describing rain and its effects. The name is sometimes combined with the word vāta (wind), parjanya-vāta, referring probably to the combined powers and effects of rain and wind. In later times he is regarded as the guardian deity of clouds and rain, and the name is applied to Indra. 2. One of the Ādityas.