Before the idol installation ceremony (murti pratishtha) in a Hindu temple, several important rituals are conducted to ensure that the image is deemed fit for worship:
Jaladhivasa (Immersion in Water): The image is immersed in
water for three days. This ritual symbolizes purification and prepares the
deity for its role in the temple.
Dhanyadhivasa (Resting on Grains): Following the
jaladhivasa, the image is placed on grains for another three days. This ritual
signifies nourishment and blessings from the earth for the deity.
Shayyadhi-vasa (Lying Down on a Bed): The image is made to
lie down on a specially prepared bed for three days. This ritual represents
rest and relaxation for the deity before assuming its position in the temple.
Netronmilana (Opening the Eyes): The eyes of the image are
opened by marking the pupils of the eyeballs with a golden needle. This ritual
is symbolic of bringing life and awareness to the deity.
Ashtabandha (Adhesive Paste): An adhesive paste made of
eight substances like lac and perfume is spread at the place where the image is
to be fixed. This paste secures the idol firmly and symbolizes stability and
permanence.
Prana-Pratishtha (Infusing Life-force): The most crucial
ritual, prana-pratishtha, involves infusing the life-force of the deity into
the idol. Through mantras and elaborate ceremonies, the divine essence is
invoked and established within the image, making it ready for worship.
These rituals are performed meticulously to sanctify the
idol and prepare it for its divine role in the temple. Each step carries
profound symbolic significance, emphasizing purity, nourishment, rest,
awakening, stability, and divine presence.