Lord Indra is the king of the heavens and ruler of the Devas. He governs rain, thunder, and lightning, and wields the powerful weapon Vajra (thunderbolt). Indra is regarded as a protector who ensures fertility of the earth through rain. Although sometimes depicted as proud, he plays a significant role in many stories of the Vedas, Puranas, and epics. His mount is Airavata, the white elephant.