The concept of Avarana Devatas in Hindu temples is deeply rooted in the rich tradition and symbolism associated with the worship of various deities. The garbhagriha, or sanctum sanctorum, forms the core of the temple and is surrounded by a series of enclosures known as avaranas. These avaranas not only provide space for devotees to perform pradakshina (circumambulation) around the main deity but also serve as dedicated spaces for the worship of subsidiary deities known as avarana devatas or parivara devatas.
In Vishnu temples, the Vaikhanasa Agama outlines a
comprehensive list of 135 parivara devatas distributed across seven avaranas.
These deities are considered attendants or part of the retinue of the main
deity, Vishnu. Examples of such avarana devatas include Brahma, Aniruddha,
Trivikrama, Varuna, Shukra, Brihaspati, and Subhadra, among others. Each of
these deities holds a specific significance and is venerated as an integral
part of the divine assembly.
Similarly, in Shiva temples, the avarana devatas may include
Devi, Chandeshwara, and Brahma. These deities are believed to complement and
surround the primary manifestation of Shiva in the sanctum sanctorum. The
presence of these avarana devatas enhances the overall spiritual ambiance of
the temple, reflecting the interconnectedness of various divine forces in Hindu
cosmology.
In Devi temples, where the central deity is a form of the
Divine Feminine, it is common to find avarana devatas such as Shiva, Vishnu,
and Ganapati. Additionally, Kartikeya or Subrahmanya, the son of Shiva and
Parvati, may also be present. This inclusion symbolizes the harmonious
coexistence of various deities within the sacred precincts, emphasizing the
unity of the divine energies.
The worship and rituals associated with avarana devatas vary
based on regional traditions, temple practices, and specific sects within
Hinduism. Devotees often offer prayers and perform rituals not only to the main
deity in the garbhagriha but also to the avarana devatas, seeking their
blessings and divine grace. The arrangement of avaranas and the selection of
avarana devatas contribute to the overall spiritual experience within the
temple, fostering a sense of completeness and interconnectedness in the worship
of the divine.