Ashvins, Vedic Twin Gods

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Ashvins (horsemen) were the twin gods in the Vedic period. Also known as Nasatyas, they are described as driving across the sky in their three-wheeled golden chariot drawn by horses. The chariot was sometimes drawn by birds, buffaloes, deer, birds, or a single ass.

The state of Ashvins being twins connects them with the Greek Dioscuri and twin gods of pre-Christian Baltic mythology. Ashvins are shown as helpers of men in distress. Apart from providing artificial legs for the maimed, they had rescued shipwrecked mariners and found spouses for the old maids.

Ashvins were married to Surya, who was the sun-god’s daughter.

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