Fifteenth International Conference on Religion & Spirituality in Society

Abstract

This study explores the regional diversity of Hindu idolatry in India, focusing on how geography, demography, material availability, and local beliefs shape the visual and cultural expressions of deities. It examines the influence of regional practices on the choice of materials—such as stone, clay, and wood—and the tools and techniques employed by artisans. Additionally, the study analyzes how facial features, iconography, and motifs reflect the cultural identities of specific communities. A comparative focus is placed on the depiction of Goddess Durga in Karnataka and West Bengal. In Karnataka, Durga is sculpted in granite as Mahishasuramardini, following Shilpashastra guidelines, with serene, symmetrical features and eternal postures, symbolizing permanence. In West Bengal, Durga is crafted as temporary clay idols for Durga Puja, marked by expressive features, dynamic postures, and intricate ornamentation, representing the ephemeral nature of devotion. By contrasting Karnataka’s timeless stone sculptures with Bengal’s transient clay creations, this study highlights how regional customs and materials shape divine representations, offering insights into the interplay of religious symbolism, cultural diversity, and artistic traditions in Hindu worship.