Temples of Hindu God Vishnu are sometimes categorized into two groups: ekabera temple and bahubera temple. Let us elaborate on the terms "Ekabera" and "Bahubera" in the context of Vishnu temples:
Ekabera Temples:
"Ekabera" is derived from two Sanskrit words:
"eka" meaning one and "bera" meaning icon or deity. So, an
Ekabera temple is a Vishnu temple where only one permanent icon or deity of
Lord Vishnu is present.
In Ekabera temples, there is typically a focus on a single
main deity, and all the rituals, offerings, and worship are directed towards
that particular icon.
The presence of goddesses Sridevi and Bhudevi (consorts of
Vishnu) and the utsava-murti (processional icon) is not a feature of Ekabera
temples. The worship is centered around the main deity alone.
The expression however, does not apply to the
parivara-devatas or attendant deities that may be installed in the appropriate
places in Ekabera temples.
Bahubera Temples:
"Bahubera" is also derived from Sanskrit, where
"bahu" means many. Therefore, a Bahubera temple is a Vishnu temple
where there are multiple permanent icons or deities of Lord Vishnu. The
presence of goddesses Sridevi and Bhudevi (consorts of Vishnu) and the
utsava-murti (processional icon) is a feature of Bahubera temples
Unlike Ekabera temples, Bahubera temples may have more than
one main deity installed. This could include various forms or manifestations of
Bhgavan Vishnu.
In Bahubera temples, worship and rituals may be performed
for each of the individual deities present in the temple.
It's worth noting that the terms
"parivara-devatas" refer to attendant deities or secondary deities
associated with the main deity in Hindu temples. These deities are considered
part of the divine retinue and play a supportive role in the overall worship.
The categorization into Ekabera and Bahubera temples
reflects different approaches to the centralization or diversification of
worship within the context of Vishnu temples in Hinduism.