अग्नि , the divine fire, is revered and celebrated through rituals performed by experienced priests. He is associated with rains and lightning, presiding over heaven and earth as a mighty protector. Agni bridges the mortal and divine realms, consuming offerings and manifesting as a force of renewal and protection. Both priests and natural elements collaborate to sustain अग्नि 's sacred presence [rv-1-144-1 ] rv • Book 1 .