Suryastra (Sanskrit सूर्यस्त्र) is one of the prominent astras in Hindu epics. It is the weapon of the Hindu deity Surya.[1] It creates bright energy which destroys darkness, illuminates the sky and dries up water bodies. It was used by multiple warriors including Rama, Ravana, Karna, Atikaya etc. in Ramayana, Mahabharata and the Puranas.[2][failed verification]
In Ramayana, Atikaya used the weapon to Counter Lakshmana's Agneyastra.[3] When Ravana used it against Rama, it illuminated and blazed the entire sky as well as the moon and other planets.[4][failed verification] In Mahabharata, many warriors such as Karna and Bhisma possessed this weapon.[citation needed]