Chhaya
/ˈtʃɑːjɑː/noun
In Hindu mythology, Chhaya is the personification of shadow and a consort of the sun god Surya.
Did you know?Chhaya is traditionally described as a shadow-double of Sanjna, created when Sanjna could no longer endure the blazing radiance of Surya.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*skéh₂-yéh₂
“Reconstructed root associated with shadow or shade.”
Vedic Sanskrit
Sanskrit
छाया (chāyā)
“Shadow, shade, reflection, or protective shelter.”
Classical Sanskrit
Sanskrit
Chāyā
“A shadow or reflected image; also a personified divine figure.”
Ancient Hindu tradition
Sanskrit
Chāyā
“The shadow-double of Sanjna and consort of Surya in mythological narratives.”
Modern English usage
English
Chhaya
“A transliterated Sanskrit name and proper noun referring to the mythological figure or to people bearing the name.”
Explore more surprising origins