Chandra, also known as Soma, is the Hindu god of the moon. His name literally means "shining" or "moon" in Sanskrit. He is a prominent deity and is considered one of the Navagraha (nine celestial bodies) and a Dikpala (guardian of a direction).

Key Aspects & Symbolism:

• Ruler of the Night: Chandra is the divine embodiment of the moon, associated with the night, vegetation, and water. His calming, cool light is believed to have a nurturing influence on plants and herbs.

• Emotions and Mind: In Hindu astrology (Jyotisha), Chandra is strongly linked to the mind, emotions, and intuition. His phases are believed to affect human moods and behavior.

• Appearance: He is typically depicted as youthful, handsome, and fair-complexioned. He is often shown riding a chariot pulled by an antelope or ten white horses, holding a lotus and a mace.

• Mythology: A famous myth explains the moon's waxing and waning phases. Chandra married the 27 daughters of Daksha (who represent the 27 constellations, or Nakshatras), but he showed a special fondness for his wife, Rohini. The other wives complained to their father, who cursed Chandra to lose his luster. To save him, the gods pleaded with Daksha, who then modified the curse, causing Chandra to wane for 15 days and then wax for 15 days, symbolizing the lunar cycle. Lord Shiva wears a crescent moon on his head, which is a symbolic representation of his power over time and his support for Chandra after the curse.