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at LA Ashram
Idols for the Temple of Sanathana Dharma, Los
Angeles, USA
Already part
of the altar here are unique and grand deities made to the
vision of the Master. Ananda Venkateshwar, the tallest
Balaji idol in North America (right) Garuda, the vehicle
of Lord Ananda Venkateshwar according to Hindu mythology (below),
Dakshinamurthi, the idol of the primal Guru, Anandeshwari
and Anandeshwar, the representation of the feminine
and masculine Energies, are a few of the worshipping deities
here.
In the making are many more, under the direct supervision
of the Master, by skilled artisans of South India. Working
at a rapid pace, the artisans continue to make magnificent
idols with fine workmanship, to adorn this temple of Sanathana
Dharma.
The Master says, ‘Sanathana Dharma or Hinduism
is not worship of idols. It is worship through
idols.’ He clarifies that idols are but tangible forms
of the formless Existence, to facilitate an easy connection
with it. He removes any misconception on idol worship and
draws one to celebrate Existence through breathtaking forms.
Seen here is the statue of Anandeshwar and Anandeshwari, which
symbolise Lord Shiva and His Consort Parvati installed by Swamiji
at the altar in Los Angeles.
Lord Shiva - the Lord of dance, has been depicted in 108 dancing
poses in Hindu Mythology. Dance and Music are shortcuts to
Divinity. Seen here are 5 Taandava Moorthis - 5 such
dancing forms of Lord Shiva. In this temple of Sanathana Dharma,
one can shortly see the 108 dancing forms, radiating the joy
and celebration of Existence.
Seen here are Malayappa Swami (center), Sridevi
(left) and Boodevi (right) - ready to be shipped
to Los Angeles. Malayappa Swami is the Utsava
Moorthi (the miniature form of the Lord that is taken
in procession during important festivals) of Lord Venkateshwar.
Sridevi and Boodevi are His Consorts.
