Ribhus

The Ribhus (Ribhu, Vaja, and Vibhvan) are three divine artisans celebrated in the Rigveda, where they are praised for their extraordinary craftsmanship and for attaining immortality through their skill. According to Rigveda 1.20 and 4.33, they are the sons of Sudhanvan, an Angirasa, and are often associated with Indra, the Maruts, and the Ashvins. Their most famous feats include rejuvenating their aged parents, transforming the single cup of their father into four shining cups (Rigveda 1.20.6), and fashioning Indra's chariot and the miraculous horse that carries him.

They also created the two steeds of Indra and the breastplate of the gods. The Ribhus are said to have gained divinity by their works, as described in Rigveda 4.33.11, where they are granted immortality by the gods for their skill. In later Puranic literature, such as the Mahabharata (Vana Parva) and the Skanda Purana, they are sometimes identified as celestial artisans or as forms of the Ribhus who assist in cosmic creation.

Iconographically, the three brothers are rarely depicted individually; they are shown as youthful, skilled craftsmen holding tools such as hammers, chisels, and the famous cup. Their symbolism represents the power of human effort and divine grace, as they achieved godhood through their art. In Vedic ritual, the Ribhus are invoked for skill, prosperity, and the transformation of offerings.

Regional worship is primarily pan-Indian within the Vedic tradition, with hymns dedicated to them in the Rigveda. They play a role in Hindu cosmology as exemplars of the transformative power of craftsmanship and the attainment of immortality through righteous action.

Three brothers depicted as skilled artisans. Rarely depicted individually in iconography.