Hindu Tattoo Inspirations: 100+ Symbols, Weapons & Gods with Deep Historical Meaning
Tattoos are more than art—they’re powerful visual stories we carry on our skin. In Hindu tradition, designs like yantras, deity symbols, cosmic geometries, and even ancient weapons are steeped in meaning, drawn from a legacy of mythology, philosophy, and spirituality. From the sacred ॐ (AUM) that resonates with universal consciousness to the śrī yantra’s intricate weave of triangles, each symbol carries deep significance, rooted in centuries of devotion and wisdom. In this guide, we present over a hundred distinct designs—each explained through its origin, meaning, and cultural context—to help you choose a tattoo that is both visually striking and soulfully meaningful.
ॐ AUM / OM
The essence of Brahman, the ultimate reality, consciousness, or Atman (the Self within).
स्वस्तिक / Svastika
The word स्वस्तिक can be dissolved as ‘सु/su’ meaning good and ‘अस्ति/asti’ meaning being. In general, it is held to symbolise the progress of sun through the heaven. This symbol is found in almost all the ancient scriptures and today also it is seen in auspicious ceremonies.
अष्टलक्ष्मी / aṣṭalakṣmī
Represents the eight different forms or manifestations of the Hindu goddess लक्ष्मी/lakṣmī, each associated with a specific aspect of wealth and prosperity.
शिव शक्ति / śiva-śakti
Represents the union of śiva (masculine, divine consciousness) and śakti (feminine, dynamic energy), symbolising the fundamental balance and interconnectedness of all things in the universe.
त्रिशूल / triśūla
It represents Lord शिव/śiva’s cosmic power and authority. The three prongs of the Trishul indicate the three fundamental elements of existence - creation, preservation, and destruction. It also signifies the three गुण/guṇa (qualities) - सत्त्व/sattva, रजस्/rajas, and तमस्/tamas.
कुण्डलिनी / kuṇḍalinī
"kuṇḍalinī śakti" translates as "Serpent Power". Kuṇḍalinī is thought to be an energy released within an individual using specific meditation techniques. It is represented symbolically as a serpent coiled at the base of the spine.
शङ्ख /śaṅkha
It's often associated with Lord विष्णू/viṣṇu and is believed to purify the environment, bring good fortune, and invoke positive energy.
पद्म / Padma
Lotus is a symbol for those who overcome ignorance and suffering in order to find enlightenment and Self-realisation.
श्री यन्त्र / śrī Yantra
It consists of nine triangles that intersect at various points to form 43 smaller triangles. Five of the nine triangles point downwards and represent śakti, the feminine power. The remaining four represent śiva, the masculine, and point upwards.
कल्पवृक्ष / kalpavṛkṣa
It's a mythical tree believed to grant any wish or desire to those who seek its blessings.
त्रिपुन्द्र / Tripundra
Consisting of three horizontal lines of sacred ash (Bhasma) on the forehead, represents devotion to Lord शिव/śiva and his threefold powers. The red dot located at the center line, functions as a reminder of the divine presence within and enhances spiritual insight.
नटराज / naṭarāja
Meaning ‘Lord of dance’" is a form of the Lord शिव/śiva that symbolises the cyclical nature of the universe, encompassing creation, preservation, and destruction. The raised leg in the naṭarāja pose symbolises liberation and transcendence, while the leg that remains grounded shows śiva’s connection to the world.
त्रिशक्ति / triśakti
The combination of Om, Svastika, and triśūla, signifies the balance of creation, preservation, and destruction; representing the fundamental forces that shape the universe.
कालचक्र / kālacakra
Meaning "wheel of time" represents the cyclical nature of time and the interconnectedness of inner and outer realms. The Outer Wheel of Time is the external world of the environment. The Inner Wheel of Time is the human body.
रुद्राक्ष/ rudrākṣa
The word "Rudrakṣa" itself translates to "eye of Rudra," referring to Lord शिव/śiva. It is sacred and holds spiritual power, representing divine grace and protection. They are believed to resonate with positive energy and promote spiritual growth, offering various benefits depending on the number of "faces" (मुखी/mukhī). There are about twenty one variants of rudrākṣa, they are called as एकमुखी/ekamukhī, द्विमुखी/dvimukhī, and so on.
तुलसी / tulasī
Holy Basil symbolises purity, devotion, and protection. It is considered a sacred plant.
नन्दी / nandi
Nandi, the bull of Lord शिव/śiva, symbolises devotion, loyalty, and strength. He represents the ideal disciple, embodying unwavering faith, physical and spiritual power, and patience.
हंस / haṃsa
It is associated with the goddess सरस्वती/sarasvatī, who rides a swan. A swan has the ability to separate milk from water - so the swan represents critical thinking and discrimination which are the vehicles for knowledge.
सरस्वती यन्त्र / sarasvatī yantra
Represents पिण्ड-ब्रह्माण्ड piṇḍa-brahmāṇḍa Theory. Multiple triangles form larger triangles. This indicates multiple smaller and related skills may lead to wider application and evolution of brain. It is often drawn on slate for auspicious occasions and pujas, symbolising the goddess's role in education, knowledge, and creativity. The Yantra is a powerful symbol of knowledge, wisdom, and the pursuit of higher learning.
अञ्जलि / añjali
It refers to the cavity formed between the palms by folding the hands together. Añjali connotes a "divine offering", "a gesture of reverence". In India, it is most commonly seen while greeting others with “Namaste”—an acknowledgement of the divine in each being and often used in prayers and rituals.
गणेश / gaṇeśa
Lord gaṇeśa, the remover of obstacles and the god of good fortune, wisdom, and prosperity. His elephant head (wisdom and intelligence), large ears (listening and understanding), and the broken tusk (sacrifice).
कलश / kalaśa
It is a symbolic pot or vessel commonly used in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. It denotes abundance, wisdom, and prosperity, and is often associated with deities like लक्ष्मी/lakṣmī and Lord गणेश/gaṇeśa.
उर्ध्व पुन्द्र / Urdhva Pundra
It is a sacred mark. The central mark on the forehead is believed to represent Goddess लक्ष्मी/lakṣmī, while the two parallel lines represent Lord विष्णू/viṣṇu’s lotus feet. It is believed to offer protection from negative influences and bestow the blessings of Lord viṣṇu. Urdhva Pundra is applied on different regions of an individual's body, and its application requires one to ritually invoke the various Lord viṣṇu.
मयूरपत्र / mayūrapatra
Lord कृष्ण/kṛṣṇa is often depicted with a crown adorned with peacock feathers, representing the divine playfulness and joy that Lord kṛṣṇa embodies. The feather represents both purity in rituals and the duality of outward appearance versus inner truth. Additionally, it is linked to practical uses in purification and ornamental functions while signifying cultural pride and celebration throughout Indian history. .
मुरली / muralī
It symbolises Lord कृष्ण/kṛṣṇa’s playful essence and artistic expression. Lord kṛṣṇa’s flute serves not just an aesthetic or romantic purpose but holds immense spiritual symbolism when delved into its purpose. He is affectionately known by various names such as वेणुगोपाल/veṇugopāla, बन्सीलाल/bansīlāla, and मुरलीधर/muralīdhara, all of which reflect his profound connection with this musical instrument.
शिवलिङ्ग / śivaliṅga
Representing Lord शिव/śiva and his boundless, formless nature. It symbolises the divine energy, creation, and the union of male and female principles.
वज्र / vajra
It means the "thunderbolt" or "diamond" weapon, represents immense power, firmness of spirit, and spiritual strength, often associated with the Vedic deity इन्द्र/Indra and the Buddhist deity वज्रसत्त्व/Vajrasattva.
अङ्कुश / aṅkuśa
It means "hook" or "elephant goad", a tool used to train and control elephants. It is also a weapon, a sharp hook attached to a stick, and is associated with Hindu deities like Lord गणेश/gaṇeśa and Goddess वराही/varāhī.
पाश / pāśa
"varūṇa's noose" refers to a powerful weapon or a binding force associated with the god वरुण/varūṇa. It represents varūṇa's control over the cosmic order and his ability to punish those who break the laws of nature.
कूर्म / kūrma
Associated Kurma avatāra, the second incarnation of Lord विष्णू/viṣṇu, depicted as a tortoise supporting the weight of Mount मंदार/Mandara during the समुद्र मन्थन/Samudra Manthan story. This symbolises the tortoise's ability to bear great weight and provide a steadfast foundation.
संहत / saṃhata
saṃhata means buṭṭī/बुट्टी design. Many diverse cultures have used this same 'paisley' symbol and consider it to represent many objects including a cashew fruit, a mango.
सुदर्शन चक्र / sudarśana cakra
The sudarśana cakra is a spinning, disc-like weapon used by Lord kṛṣṇa, symbolising his power and protection. It means "auspicious vision", signifies its divine nature and ability to dispel darkness. It's often depicted with 108 serrated edges and is considered a celestial weapon capable of destroying evil.
पिप्पल / pippala
In Hindu and Buddhist traditions, a Peepal (or Pipal) leaf symbolises enlightenment, wisdom, and divinity.
मूलाधार चक्र / mūlādhāra cakra
"mūlādhāra" means "root support" or "foundation" and refers to the first of the seven cakras, also known as the root cakra. The seed mantra syllable is ‘लं’ laṃ. Located at the base of the spine, it is considered the foundation for all other cakras and is associated with survival, grounding, and a sense of security.
स्वाधिष्ठान चक्र / svādhiṣṭhāna cakra
In Sanskrit, the word can be dissected as sva – self; and sthāna– location; meaning ‘one’s own place’. It is also known as the Sacral cakra and is the second primary cakra in kuṇḍalinī yoga. The seed mantra is ‘वं’ vaṃ. It's located in the lower abdomen, near the sacrum, and is associated with emotions, creativity, pleasure.
मणिपुर चक्र / maṇipura cakra
maṇipura cakra, also known as the solar plexus or navel cakra, is the third of the seven main cakras in the human energy system. The seed mantra is 'रं' raṃ. It's located between the belly button and the base of the sternum and is associated with personal power, self-esteem, and the fire element.
अनाहत चक्र / anāhata cakra
The anāhata cakra, also known as the Heart cakra, is the fourth primary cakra in the human energy system. In Sanskrit, "anāhata" means "unstruck" or "unhurt," signifying purity, love, and compassion. The seed mantra is ‘यं’ yaṃ. It's located in the center of the chest and is considered the bridge between the lower three cakras (physical energy) and the upper three cakras
विशुद्ध चक्र / viśuddha cakra
The viśuddha cakra, also known as the throat cakra, is the fifth of the seven main cakras, located in the throat area. In Sanskrit, "viśuddha" translates to "purification" or "especially pure". The seed mantra is ‘हं’ haṃ. This cakra is deeply associated with communication, self-expression, and speaking one's truth.
आज्ञा चक्र / ājñā cakra
ājñā cakra, also known as the Third Eye cakra, is the sixth primary cakra, located between the eyebrows. In Sanskrit, "ājñā" translates to "command" or "perceive”. The seed mantra is ‘हं’ haṃ or ‘क्षं’ kṣaṃ. It is associated with intuition, insight, and perception, allowing us to access a higher level of awareness and understand the world beyond the ordinary.
सहस्रार चक्र / sahasrāra cakra
The sahasrāra cakra, also known as the Crown Cakra, is the highest of the seven main cakras and represents the culmination of spiritual evolution. In sanskrit, it means ‘thousand’, representing thousand petals of lotus. The seed mantra is ‘ॐ’ aum. It is located at the top of the head and symbolises a deep connection to the divine, ultimate consciousness, and a sense of oneness with the universe.
चक्रव्यूह / cakravyūha
It is a complex, circular battle formation in the Hindu epic Mahabharata, described as a multi-layered, rotating, and impenetrable trap. It is often symbolised as a spinning wheel, with soldiers arranged in concentric circles, and the strength of the soldiers increasing towards the center.
गरुड / garuḍa
garuḍa symbolises divine authority, speed, strength, and courage. He is known as the vehicle (vahana) of Lord viṣṇu, representing divine power and the ability to transcend boundaries. Garuda is also associated with protection, vigilance, and the ability to vanquish negativity.
डमरु / ḍamaru
The ḍamaru, Lord śiva’s drum, symbolises the rhythmic balance of creation and destruction in the universe. It represents the cosmic sound, often interpreted as "Om" and is associated with the cyclical nature of existence. The ḍamaru’s sound is believed to have birthed Sanskrit alphabets and the vibrations of the universe.
नूपुर / nūpura
These are small metallic bells traditionally worn by Indian dancers, symbolise the dancer's connection to the rhythm and music of the dance, as well as their connection to the tradition and culture of Indian classical dance. They enhance the performance by accentuating the footwork and adding a musical dimension
शृङ्गवाद्य / śṛṅgavādya
Buffalo horns and the instruments made from them symbolise a range of concepts, including strength, practicality, and cultural heritage. In Indian mythology, they represent devotion to Krishna, pastoral life, and even the god of death, Yama, riding on a buffalo.
अग्नि / agni
agni variously denotes the natural element fire, the supernatural deity symbolised by fire and the inner natural will aspiring for the highest knowledge. Heat, combustion and energy is the realm of agni which symbolises the transformation of the gross to the subtle.
जल / jala
In the context of Indian philosophy and practices, "jala" (water) symbolises water and its various properties, including its role in life, health, and spiritual practices. It is one of the five fundamental elements (Pancha Mahabhutas) in Ayurveda and other Indian traditions.
पृथ्वी / pṛthvī
In Vedic and Ayurvedic traditions, pṛthvī or earth symbolises the solid, grounded, and stable nature of earth. It embodies solidity, strength, and the foundation of existence, representing the physical and tangible aspects of the world. In a broader sense, pṛthvī tattva can also symbolise a sense of grounding, stability, and practicality in oneself.
वायु / vāyu
In Hindu mythology, vāyu symbolises air and breath, representing the life force and the movement of the universe. It is also associated with strength, power, and the divine messenger of the gods. vāyu is considered a fundamental element in Ayurveda and is linked to both internal bodily functions and external natural phenomena like wind and storms.
आकाश / ākāśa
ākāśa tattva, or the "space element," symbolises the fundamental nature of existence, including the vastness of the universe, the essence of creation, and the interconnectedness of all things. It represents expansion, knowledge, and awareness, and is seen as the basis for other elements and the foundation of consciousness.
आयुर्वेद / āyurveda
This symbol is commonly associated with Ayurvedic medicine, featuring a mortar and pestle with leaves. A mortar and pestle is an ancient tool used for grinding substances into a powder or paste. In the context of Ayurvedic medicine, it symbolises the preparation of herbal remedies and medicines. The leaves incorporated into the design further emphasise the natural and herbal aspects of Ayurveda.
गदा / gadā
The gadā (also known as a mace or club) symbolises power, strength, and the ability to crush evil. It is particularly associated with Lord Hanuman, where his gada represents his unwavering devotion and power to protect righteousness. The gadā is also seen as a symbol of protection and is used in rituals and ceremonies.
परशु / paraśu
In ancient Indian iconology, the paraśu (axe) symbolises the severing of bonds of attachment, particularly the cycle of birth and death. It represents the power to cut away negative influences and limitations, allowing for spiritual growth and liberation. The paraśu can also signify the attributes of Lord śiva and is associated with Lord paraśurāma, the sixth avatāra of Lord viṣṇu.
मयूर / mayūra
mayūra, which means peacock, symbolises various concepts including beauty, grace, pride, and the ability to transcend ego. It is associated with several deities like Kartikeya, the god of war, and Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom. Peacocks are also seen as a symbol of royalty and power in Indian culture.
वेदिका / vedikā
A vedikā is a pit or fire-altar or sacrificial altar where sacred fire is lit and offerings are made during Hindu rituals and ceremonies. It symbolises the purification and spiritual cleansing associated with fire in Hindu traditions.
दीप / dīpa
In Hindu tradition, a "dīpa" (lamp or light) symbolises positive energy, illumination, and divinity. It represents the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance, often used in rituals and worship to dispel darkness and seek divine favor. The dīpa's gentle glow is a reminder of the power of positivity and the ability of light to guide and uplift.
सर्प / sarpa
sarpa symbolises serpents, representing both protection and movement, created from brahma's shivered hairs, and is associated with wisdom, mythological contexts, and the deity Yoga Shula, highlighting intricate spiritual meanings.
मत्स्य / matsya
The first and foremost fish incarnation of Mahāviṣṇu, crucial for saving humanity and the Vedas during a great flood. It also symbolises protection, guidance, and the preservation of knowledge during times of crisis. It represents the restoration of cosmic order and the renewal of life after a cataclysmic events.
वराह / varāha
It refers to the boar avatāra of viṣṇu, known for his role in lifting the earth from the depths of रसातल/rasātala and protecting it from the demon हिरण्याक्ष/hiraṇyākṣa. varāha symbolises the divine act of retrieval and is celebrated for his strength and dedication to safeguarding the planet.
नृसिंह / nṛsiṃha
nṛsiṃha represents an avatāra of Lord viṣṇu characterised by a half-man, half-lion form. This fierce incarnation embodies protection and justice, defeating the demon हिरण्यकशिपु/hiraṇyakaśipu to save his devotee प्रह्लाद/prahlāda. Revered for his strength and noble qualities, nṛsiṃha symbolises divine intervention against evil.
वामन / vāmana
vāmana, the dwarf avatāra of viṣṇu, symbolises several key concepts in mythology, including the triumph of good over evil, the power of the divine to overcome adversity, and the importance of humility and sacrifice. It is a figure of humility and devotion, and his story highlights the divine ability to restore balance to the universe.
परशुराम / paraśurāma
paraśurāma is a significant character in Indian mythology, recognised as the son of sage Jamadagni and known for his fierce demeanor and warrior prowess. Multiple interpretations across various texts highlight his various roles, including being sixth avatāra of Lord viṣṇu, a teacher of divine weaponry, and a central figure associated with themes of vengeance and redemption.
राम / rāma
rāma is a central figure in Indian mythology, celebrated for his virtues and heroism, particularly in the epic rāmāyaṇa. He is known as the seventh avatāra of viṣṇu, embodying righteousness and moral values while undertaking the quest to rescue his wife, Sita. His character represents the ideals of an ideal son, husband, and king, revered for confronting evil and upholding righteousness.
कृष्ण / kṛṣṇa
Lord kṛṣṇa is a central figure in Indian mythology, revered for his divine qualities and as an incarnation of the Supreme. Being the eighth avatāra of Lord viṣṇu, he embodies divine love and playfulness, serving as a protector and spiritual guide. Lord kṛṣṇa demonstrates immense strength and skill. He is a significant deity whose teachings, as outlined in texts like the भगवद्गीता/bhagavadgītā, provide spiritual enlightenment.
बुद्ध / buddha
In Vaishnavism, Lord buddha is recognised as the ninth avatāra of viṣṇu. The buddha symbolises enlightenment, wisdom, and liberation from suffering. He's seen as an example of a human who achieved enlightenment through his own efforts and teachings, offering a path to understanding the nature of reality and achieving निर्वाण/nirvana, a state of freedom from suffering.
कल्कि / kalki
Kalki is the final avatāra of Lord viṣṇu, prophesied to appear at the end of the Kali Yuga, an era of decline and moral decay. His arrival signifies the beginning of a new era, the Satya Yuga, an age of truth and righteousness, and the end of the current age of darkness. Kalki is depicted as a powerful force, riding a white horse, who will purify the world, destroy evil, and restore dharma (righteousness).
पर्वतासन / parvatāsana
parvatāsana , also known as Mountain Pose, symbolises strength, steadfastness, and stability, much like the mountains themselves. It is often linked to Lord śiva and his meditative practice in the हिमालय/himālaya, symbolising the importance of inner stillness, focus, and a connection to something larger than oneself.
सुखासन / sukhāsana
The Easy Pose, symbolises comfort, ease, and a state of relaxation and inner peace. It is a foundational yoga posture that promotes a sense of calmness and stability. The name "sukhāsana" itself, derived from the Sanskrit words "Sukha" (meaning pleasure or ease) and "āsana" (meaning posture), reflects its intention to cultivate a comfortable and peaceful state.
अश्व / aśva
The term aśva (अश्व), which translates to "horse," is more than just a literal animal. It symbolises various concepts, including vital energy (प्राण/prāṇa), the dynamism of life, and even the soul's connection to the physical world. The horse also represents purity and divine significance.
सूर्य / sūrya
sūrya symbolises the sun, representing light, energy, vitality, and cosmic order. He is considered a vital deity, worshipped for his role in creation, sustenance, and the physical and spiritual realms. It is also associated with qualities like willpower, authority, fame, and the dispelling of darkness.
चन्द्रकला / candrakalā
candrakalā (phases of moon) symbolises divine grace, compassion, and the ever-present nature of divine presence. The crescent moon on the forehead of Lord śiva is a key symbolic representation of this. The phases of the moon represent the cyclical nature of life, change, and the passage of time.
खड्ग / khaḍga
khaḍga (a sword) symbolises power, strength, and the ability to eliminate ignorance. It is often associated with various Gods and Goddesses, representing divine power, particularly during worship. Additionally, it can represent the cutting of ignorance, often associated with sacrifice, and the discernment between truth and untruth, leading to wisdom.
ज्ञान मुद्रा / jñāna mudrā
Jñāna mudrā, or the mudrā of wisdom, symbolises the union of the individual self with the universal self (ब्रह्मन्/brahman). It is a hand gesture where the tip of the index finger touches the tip of the thumb, with the remaining fingers extended. This mudrā is often associated with meditation and can be used to cultivate wisdom, peace, and clarity.
आकाश मुद्रा / ākāśa mudrā
This hand gesture is used in yoga and spiritual practices to represent the element of space or ether. It's formed by touching the tips of the thumb and middle finger on each hand, while keeping the other fingers extended, symbolising the union of the fire element (thumb) with the ether or space element (middle finger). This mudrā can be used to expand consciousness, promote lightness, and reduce feelings of heaviness.
अश्विनी नक्षत्र / aśvinī nakṣatra
aśvinī nakṣatra, the first nakṣatra, symbolises the beginning of a journey, new beginnings, and the swiftness of the aśvinī kumāra, the divine twin physicians. It is represented by a horse's head, signifying speed, agility, and vitality. aśvinī kumāra are known for their healing and rejuvenating abilities.
भरणी नक्षत्र / bharaṇī nakṣatra
bharaṇī nakṣatra, the second nakṣatra, is symbolised by the yoni, representing the female reproductive organs and the creative and reproductive powers of nature. It's also linked to Yama, the god of death, and the journey from life to death and rebirth.
कृत्तिका नक्षत्र / kṛttikā nakṣatra
Kṛttikā nakṣatra symbolises purification, transformation, and fiery energy. It's often associated with the god Agni, and represents cutting away negativity and burning through obstacles. This lunar mansion is symbolised by a razor or knife, reflecting its sharp and decisive nature. In mythology, it is linked to the six Kṛttikā, who nurtured Lord kārtikeya.
रोहिणी नक्षत्र / rohiṇī nakṣatra
Rohiṇī means “the red one” and is associated with the deity known as Prajāpati (the Creator, Brahmā). It is associated with creativity, nurturing qualities, and the ability to bring prosperity. Symbolised by a chariot or ox-cart, it signifies movement, progress, and material abundance.
मृगशीर्ष नक्षत्र / mṛgaśīrṣa nakṣatra
mṛgaśīrṣa nakṣatra, or the deer's head, symbolises curiosity, intelligence, and the pursuit of knowledge. It represents a gentle, graceful, and adaptable nature, with individuals born under this star often seeking to explore the world around them. In mythology, it's associated with the celestial hunt and the pursuit of truth and enlightenment.
आर्द्रा नक्षत्र / ārdrā nakṣatra
It symbolises emotional healing, transformation, and the power of tears. It is associated with the "Power of Healing Tears" and is linked to the ability to turn pain into growth. Representing destruction and renewal, the symbol of ārdrā is a teardrop or gem, reflecting its association with moisture and purification.
पुनर्वसु नक्षत्र / punarvasu nakṣatra
punarvasu nakṣatra, meaning "the star of renewal," is associated with rebirth, regeneration, and the ability to adapt to change. It's ruled by Jupiter, the planet of wisdom and expansion, and is symbolised by a bow and a quiver of arrows, representing the resources needed for renewal and restoration.
पुष्य नक्षत्र / puṣya nakṣatra
puṣya nakṣatra, the eighth lunar mansion in Vedic astrology, symbolises nourishment, abundance, and fertility. It is often associated with the “udder of a cow”, representing the nurturing and sustaining aspects of this constellation. It is also linked to prosperity, wealth, and auspiciousness.
आश्लेषा नक्षत्र / āśleṣā nakṣatra
śleṣā nakṣatra is primarily symbolised by a “coiled serpent”. This symbol represents hidden dangers, secrecy, transformation, and the dual nature of both protection and destruction,. In mythology, it is associated with the Naga (serpent) deities, known for their wisdom, power, and ability to transform, but also linked with poison and hidden threats.
मघा नक्षत्र / maghā nakṣatra
maghā nakṣatra symbolises leadership, authority, and a deep connection to one's ancestral lineage and traditions. It is also associated with the concept of "the mighty one" and represents rewards accrued from past lives. The “throne” is a prominent symbol of Magha, representing power, status, and the fulfillment of ancestral duties.
पूर्वा फाल्गुनी नक्षत्र / pūrvā phālgunī nakṣatra nakṣatra
pūrvā phālgunī nakṣatra is symbolised by a “swinging hammock” or the “front legs of a bed”, representing relaxation, pleasure, and creativity. It embodies the joy of living, artistic expression, and the pursuit of happiness, often associated with romantic unions and the fulfillment of desires.
उत्तरा फाल्गुनी नक्षत्र / uttarā phālgunī nakṣatra
uttarā phālgunī nakṣatra is symbolised by a “bed” or a “hammock”, representing relaxation, comfort, and a retreat for rejuvenation. It also symbolises pleasure, rest, and rejuvenation for oneself and others. In mythology, it is associated with Aryaman, the god of contracts and unions, representing friendship, alliances, and social contracts.
हस्त नक्षत्र / hasta nakṣatra
hasta nakṣatra, meaning "hand," symbolises skill, creativity, and the ability to manifest desires into reality. It is associated with the deity सवितृ/savitṛ, the Sun God, who embodies creativity and inspiration. It is also ruled by the Moon, adding an emotional and intuitive dimension to its practical nature.
चित्रा नक्षत्र / citrā nakṣatra
It is symbolised by a “radiant jewel” or a “pearl”, representing excellence, craftsmanship, and creativity. It is also associated with विश्वकर्म/viśvakarma, the celestial architect, and ruled by Mars. This nakṣatra is known for its dynamic energy, precision, and ability to create beauty under extraordinary circumstances.
स्वाति नक्षत्र / svāti nakṣatra
svāti (स्वाति) is represented by “a plant”, symbolises growth, flexibility, adaptability, and independence. It is associated with the deity vāyu, the wind god, representing the cosmic life force, strength, power, and movement. The nakṣatra also represents the “Chatak bird”, which eagerly awaits the first raindrop of the monsoon, symbolising a desire for divine mercy.
विशाखा नक्षत्र / viśākhā nakṣatra
aptability, and independence. It is associated with the deity vāyu, the wind god, representing the cosmic life force, strength, power, and movement. The nakṣatra also represents the “Chatak bird”, which eagerly awaits the first raindrop of the monsoon, symbolising a desire for divine mercy.
अनुराधा नक्षत्र / anurādhā nakṣatra
anurādhā nakṣatra, one of the 27 lunar mansions in Vedic astrology, symbolises devotion, loyalty, friendship, and harmony. It's associated with the deity Mitra, God of friendship and devotion, and is ruled by Saturn. The symbol is a “lotus”, representing purity and growth.
ज्येष्ठा नक्षत्र / jyeṣṭhā nakṣatra
jyeṣṭhā nakṣatra,is often associated with the goddess jyeṣṭhā, who is known as "the elder" or "the eldest" and is linked to both wisdom and misfortune. Its symbol is a “circular amulet or umbrella”, and it's ruled by the planet Budha (Mercury). In astrology, Jyeshtha is associated with leadership, responsibility, and protection.
मूला नक्षत्र / mulā nakṣatra
mulā nakṣatra, also known as the "root star," symbolises the foundations of life, deep-seated truths, and profound transformations. It represents the strength and resilience found in our origins, as well as the ability to confront and transcend life's hardships. This nakṣatra is associated with a quest for truth, deep connections, and a transformative energy.
पूर्वा आषाढा नक्षत्र / pūrvā āṣāḍhā nakṣatra
pūrvā āṣāḍhā nakṣatra symbolises invincibility, strength, and a resilient spirit. The symbols of this nakṣatra, a “winnowing basket”. It is associated with a powerful, determined individual who is not easily discouraged and aims for high goals. It is also linked to intellect, leadership, and a deep connection to intuition and emotions.
उत्तरा आषाढा नक्षत्र / uttarā āṣāḍhā nakṣatra
uttarā āṣāḍhā nakṣatra in Vedic astrology, ruled by the Sun and symbolised by an “elephant tusk”, represents strength, invincibility, and long-term success. It is associated with traits like courage, leadership, and a strong sense of duty.
श्रवण नक्षत्र / śravaṇa nakṣatra
śravaṇa nakṣatra is symbolised by an “ear” and represents wisdom, knowledge, and the power of attentive listening. It's associated with learning, communication, and acquiring knowledge through experience. The nakṣatra is ruled by viṣṇu, the preserver of the universe, and is known as the "Star of Learning".
धनिष्ठा नक्षत्र / dhaniṣṭhā nakṣatra
dhaniṣṭhā nakṣatra symbolises resourcefulness, abundance, and the ability to bring joy and celebration. It is also associated with music, rhythm, and creativity, often symbolised by a “drum”. Individuals born under this nakṣatra are known for their leadership qualities and magnetic personalities.
शतभिषा नक्षत्र / śatabhiṣā nakṣatra
śatabhiṣā nakṣatra, meaning "the Hundred Physicians" or "a hundred stars," symbolises healing, transformation, and innovation. It is associated with the deity varuṇa, the god of cosmic order and the waters, and is also connected to the planet rāhu (the North Node of the Moon). The nakṣatra is often represented by an “empty circle”, signifying mystery, void, and potential.
पूर्वा भाद्रपदा नक्षत्र / pūrvā bhādrapadā nakṣatra
pūrvā bhādrapadā nakṣatra, a Vedic astrology nakṣatra, representing endings, transformation, and the transition to the spiritual realm. Other symbols include a “sword”, which signifies cutting through illusions and achieving clarity. It is also associated with a two-faced man, symbolising duality and the ability to see both sides of a situation.
उत्तरा भाद्रपदा नक्षत्र / uttarā bhādrapadā nakṣatra
uttarā bhādrapadā nakṣatra, in Vedic astrology, symbolises the “back legs of a bed”, signifying the journey of the soul from life to death and a focus on metaphysics and personal transformation. It is also considered a fixed constellation, suggesting stability and permanence, making it a good time for building and establishing structures.
रेवती नक्षत्र / revatī nakṣatra
revatī nakṣatra, the 27th and final lunar mansion in Vedic astrology, is symbolised by a “fish”, representing nurturing, abundance, and spiritual journeys. It's associated with prosperity, wisdom, and the completion of cycles, marking a transition towards higher levels of consciousness.
Conclusion
Conclusion Tattoos rooted in Hindu tradition are not just designs on skin—they are living symbols of spirituality, protection, and personal expression. Whether it’s a yantra for harmony, a weapon symbolizing strength, or a divine figure representing devotion, each motif carries timeless wisdom. If you’ve enjoyed exploring this collection of 100+ Hindu tattoo symbols and their meanings, we invite you to dive deeper into our blog. Our team has carefully researched and written many more articles on spirituality, culture, and symbolism that can inspire your next tattoo or enrich your understanding of ancient traditions. Explore our other posts and continue your journey of discovery with us.
