Chitragupta

Chitragupta is a celestial being in Hindu dharma who serves as the divine accountant and keeper of karmic records. He is an assistant to Yama, the god of death, and is responsible for maintaining the ledger of every soul's deeds, determining their fate after death. According to the Garuda Purana, Chitragupta was born from the body of Brahma and is considered the progenitor of the Kayastha community. He is also mentioned in the Yama Samhita, where his role in recording the virtuous and sinful actions of all beings is elaborated. Iconographically, Chitragupta is depicted as dark-complexioned, holding a pen and ink pot in two hands and a sword in another, seated at a desk with records of human deeds.

The pen and ink pot symbolize his role as the recorder, while the sword represents his authority to punish the wicked. His mount is not specified, but he is often shown seated. The principal myth associated with Chitragupta is his creation by Brahma to keep track of the deeds of all living beings, as described in the Garuda Purana. After a person's death, Chitragupta presents the karmic ledger to Yama, who then decides the soul's destination—heaven, hell, or rebirth. Regional worship traditions are particularly strong among the Kayastha community in North India, who regard Chitragupta as their clan deity.

The festival of Chitragupta Puja is observed on the second day after Diwali (Yama Dwitiya), when devotees worship their account books and pens. In Hindu cosmology, Chitragupta plays a crucial role in the cycle of karma and rebirth, ensuring that justice is served according to one's actions. His attributes include karma records, justice, accounting, and destiny. Symbols associated with him are the pen, ink pot, ledger, and sword. The mantra "Om Citraguptāya namaḥ" is chanted for his blessings.

Dark-complexioned, holding pen, ink pot, and sword. Seated at a desk with records of human deeds.