A Mandir is a Hindu temple. It is usually dedicated to a primary deity, called the presiding deity, and The Gopuram of a temple, in south Indian temples is adorned with colourful icons depicting a particular myth surrounding the temples diety. other deities associated with the main deity. (In the US though, most mandirs are dedicated to multiple deities.) Most major temples are constructed per the aagama shastras.

Most practising Hindus maintain a mandir in their homes for daily worship and meditation.

Prana Pratishta

Prana Pratishta is the ceremony to invoke the divine spirit/energy into the statue made in God's form. Once this ceremony has been performed the murti (or 'idol') must be worshipped daily.

Elements of Temple Worship

Although the devotee is free to worship in any manner as long as it is respectful and not offensive, some common elements of temple worship are darshan, puja, bhajan, pradakshina and prasad.

Basic norms to be followed in a mandir

Most priests take elaborate measures to maintain mental and physical purity. While most devotees cannot maintain such regimens, there are some basic rules that must be followed:

Footwear is not allowed inside.
Feet should not be pointed toward the deities. Feet are preferably folded.
One must not sit with back towards the sanctum sanctorum.
Non-vegetarian foods and alcoholic beverages should not be brought inside the temple. Garlic and onions should be avoided.
Women should not enter the mandir in the first four days of their menstrual cycle.
Smoking is not allowed.
One must not enter the shrine or touch the deity without permission.

Local village deities and temples

There are two main styles of Hindu temple architecture: Naagara (Northern) and Dravida (Southern).

Management

In the most recent developments, the Archeological Survey of India has taken control of most ancient temples of archeological importance.

External links

The Hindu Temple - Where Man Becomes God by Sri Nitin Kumar.

Sources

4dham.com - Mandir

See Also

Outside Links

Mandir

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