Biranchi Narayan Temple ( Many Firsts in Art & Architecture)

Mandira or temple is a symbolic house of divinity for Hindus. They are seated for divinity. It is a structure designed to bring human beings and gods together using symbolism to express the ideas and beliefs of Hinduism. They are constructed for religious or spiritual activities including prayer meditation sacrifice and worship dedicated to God always. Murti or idols images are of a special figure incarnation or rock-solid object''. In Sanskrit text Murti is a common word for an image statue or idol of a deity or mortal in Hindu culture. In Hindu temples it is a representational icon. Further Hindus have images Murtis or pictures of one or more of the gods in their shrines. These help Hindus to think about God when they worship. By showing love and respect towards the Murtis Hindus believe that they are showing devotion and love to God. However in Hinduism idols have worshipped a reminder of God. Thus an imperative point is – ''Hindus do not worship idols believing them to be Gods. Rather they view the statues and images as physical representations of God to help them focus on an aspect of prayer or meditation. They may then walk around the shrine while singing chanting or praying. They may also present an offering such as fruit milk or money. The purpose of worship in the Mandira is to ''have Darshan '' of (or see) the gods and goddesses. Prayers and hymns such as Bhajans help the devotee to experience the divine presence. The main goal of a faithful Hindu is different from other persons. The purpose of life for Hindus is to achieve four aims called Purusharthas. These are Dharma Kama Artha and Moksha. These provide Hindus with opportunities to act morally and ethically and lead a good life.