What is saptarishi?

The Saptarishi (Sanskrit: सप्तर्षि, romanized: saptarṣi, lit. 'seven sages') are the seven rishis in ancient India who are revered as the patriarchs of the Vedic religion and Hindu tradition. They are regarded as the mind-born sons (manasputras) of Brahma, the creator god.

In various texts and traditions, the names of the Saptarishi vary. The most commonly accepted list includes:

• Kashyapa: Often considered the father of all beings.
• Atri: Known for his devotion and the birth of Dattatreya.
• Vasistha: The family priest of the Ikshvaku dynasty (Rama's lineage).
• Vishvamitra: A king who became a powerful rishi through his tapasya (asceticism).
• Gautama: Known for the curse he placed on Indra.
• Jamadagni: The father of Parashurama.
• Bharadvaja: A learned scholar and physician.

The Saptarishi are considered to be the authors of the Vedas, specifically the Rigveda. Each of the seven rishis is associated with a specific gotra (lineage), and many Hindu families trace their ancestry back to one of these sages. The constellation Ursa Major (the Great Bear) is identified with the Saptarishi, with each bright star representing one of the sages. The concept of the Saptarishi embodies wisdom, knowledge, and spiritual enlightenment within Hindu cosmology.