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Home > Temples of Kerala > Types of Vigrahas Types of VigrahasIt is seen bimba and vigraha are synonymously used. However it seems a distinction is necessary. Bimba is only an image and when power of the Devatha is invoked it becomes a vigraha (idol). Undoubtedly the most important part of a temple is the deity represented by a vigraha (idol). Vigrahas are broadly grouped under two, swayambhoo (self-revealed) and prathishta (artificially made and consecrated). Swayambhoo idols are considered more important, as the deity has self-revealed His/Her power for the benefit of all. The legends of ancient temples record that revelation of power of these idols are associated with some strange occurrences of blood oozing out incessantly when a stone was accidentally struck by a sickle, hoe etc., particularly by persons of lower caste (mostly belonging to agricultural labour class). In earlier centuries the local chieftain or Raja, on getting the information of such incidents, took steps to conduct rites of purification and installation by learned Brahmin priests (Namboothiri, Potti etc), at a suitable site as per specifications in the saasthras. There are similar instances where the idols were recovered from rivers, streams, tanks or specified spots based on revelation in dreams to some devotees. They were also similarly installed as per thaanthric rites. Besides stone idols, there are also instances where the presence of deities was felt on wooden planks, trees etc. and they were also properly revered and worshipped. All these types of idols can be grouped under a single category of swayambhoo as the super natural power was self-revealed. The second category of prathishtas are excellent artistic pieces. They are either carved or moulded according to dictum laid down in silpa saasthras. Therefore, it is essential to bring out some of the salient features of idols classified under prathishta, as they have certain peculiarities and regional variations. The idols used for prathishta (other than swayambhoo) are made up of different materials, viz. stone, metal, wood, katu-sarkkara, stucco, mud etc. Mostly they are excellent pieces of art. Brief notes on these types of materials are given as fol1ows.
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