Why are Hindu gods blue?

In Hinduism, the color blue is often associated with divine and spiritual transcendence.

The god Vishnu, who is considered the preserver of the universe and the sustainer of life, is often depicted as having blue skin. This is thought to symbolize his vast and infinite nature and his association with the cosmic ocean, which is believed to be the source of all creation in Hindu mythology.

The god Shiva, another major deity in Hinduism, is also sometimes depicted with blue skin. In his case, the blue color is thought to symbolize his association with the god of destruction and the power of transformation.

The blue color also represents the concept of “Neela,” which means the knowledge of the supreme reality. It is also associated with the god Krishna who is considered as the embodiment of love and divine joy. The blue color is also used to depict the god in his cosmic form, which is believed to be infinite and all-pervading.

Additionally, blue is associated with detachment and spiritual transcendence, as it is believed to be a color that is not easily affected by the material world.

Furthermore, the use of blue pigment to depict gods in Hindu art and iconography can be traced back to ancient times, when pigments were derived from natural sources such as minerals and plants. One such source is the indigo plant, widely cultivated in ancient India and used to produce a rich blue dye. This dye was used to color clothes, fabrics, and even the paint used in temples and other sacred spaces. Thus, the blue color of Hindu gods in art and iconography is not just a symbolic representation but also a cultural and historical reflection of the use of natural pigments.

In addition to this, the blue color also has a psychological and emotional impact on the viewer. It is often associated with feelings of calm, tranquility, and spiritual depth.

In conclusion, the depiction of Hindu gods as blue is rooted in both symbolism and cultural history. It represents the divine and spiritual transcendence, vast and infinite nature, detachment, spiritual transcendence, and the use of natural pigments. Also, the blue color has a profound emotional and psychological impact on the viewer.