Mitra is a Vedic God mentioned in the Vedas but he is rarely worshipped today in Hinduism. He is one among the Adityas and is associated with friendship and solidarity. The name Mitra means a ‘devoted friend’ or ‘friendship.’ He is the son of Aditi. He represents the relationship between the living beings. Social morality, comradeship and rules of association are his domain.
In Vedic society, as the guardian encouraged the virtuous and pious and protected them. He also punished the sinners who did not keep their promise in the society. Code of honor important in early society was looked after by Mitra.
Legend has it that Sage Vasishta and Agastya were born to Mitra and Varuna in Urvasi. Legend has it that Mitra and Varuna placed their semen in an urn before Urvasi. From the semen was born Sage Vasishta and Agastya – the men who defined code of behavior in ancient society.
According to Bhagavad Purana, Mitra also had sons in Revathi, who represents prosperity. The three sons were Utsarga, Arishta, and Pippala.
It must be noted that Mitra is also mentioned in other ancient culture. Like in ancient Iranian culture, Mitra is the god of light.