Bhoga Murti, a form of Vishnu in Hindu iconography, represents an icon that gives happiness and pleasure, specifically connected with enjoyment, prosperity, and abundance. This type of murti (idol) of Vishnu is one of the four principal forms in which the deity is worshipped, each representing a different aspect or mood of the god: Bhoga Murti (enjoyment and happiness), Yoga Murti (meditation and asceticism), Vira Murti (heroic deeds and protection), and Abhicharika Murti (exorcism and destructive power).
Classification and Description of Bhoga Murti
Bhoga Murti exists in three postures:
- Sthanaka (standing)
- Asina (seated)
- Shayana (recumbent)
Each posture has three subdivisions based on the presence and number of attendant beings: Uttama (superior), Madhyama (middle), and Adhama (inferior).
Bhoga-Sthanaka-Murti (Standing Form)
The standing Bhoga Murti, known as Bhoga-Sthanaka-Murti, typically has four arms. The two upper hands hold Vishnu’s symbolic weapons—the chakra (discus) and shankha (conch). The lower right hand may exhibit the abhaya mudra (gesture of protection) or the varada mudra (gesture of granting boons), while the left lower hand rests on the hip. This form represents Vishnu as a benevolent protector and bestower of blessings.
Vishnu’s complexion is depicted as shyama (dark blue), symbolizing infinity and the cosmic waters. He is often flanked by his consorts, Sridevi (Lakshmi), who represents prosperity, and Bhudevi (Mother Earth), who represents sustenance and fertility.
In the Uttama variety, Vishnu is accompanied by a host of sages, celestial beings, and attendants. In the Madhyama and Adhama varieties, the number of these subsidiary beings is reduced, reflecting a lesser degree of grandeur.
Bhogasana-Murti (Seated Form)
In the seated posture, known as Bhogasana-Murti, Vishnu is shown sitting majestically on a splendid throne, signifying his sovereignty over the cosmos. In some depictions, he may sit on Ananta, the thousand-hooded serpent, which symbolizes eternity and cosmic balance.
Bhoga-Shayana-Murti (Recumbent Form)
In the recumbent form, known as Bhoga-Shayana-Murti, Vishnu is depicted reclining, often on Ananta (the serpent). His right hand supports his head, symbolizing rest, while the left hand is stretched towards the thigh. His other two hands may hold the shankha and chakra, though sometimes these weapons are absent, emphasizing a more relaxed, peaceful mood. Near Vishnu’s feet, either Lakshmi or both Lakshmi and Bhudevi are shown in a posture of devotion. In many depictions, the god Brahma is depicted seated on a lotus emanating from Vishnu's navel, symbolizing creation emerging from the primordial waters.
Importance in Hindu Society
Bhoga Murti holds great significance in Vaishnavism, the branch of Hinduism dedicated to the worship of Vishnu. This form emphasizes Vishnu’s role as the preserver and protector of the universe, granting happiness and prosperity to his devotees. The Bhoga Murti’s posture and form symbolize divine enjoyment, protection, and nurturing of the material world, appealing to householders and those who seek divine grace for worldly success and wellbeing.
The worship of Bhoga Murti is common in temples dedicated to Vishnu and his incarnations (avatars), such as Krishna and Rama. The Sthanaka Bhoga Murti, with Vishnu standing, is often seen in temples where Vishnu is worshipped as the provider of dharma (righteousness) and material prosperity.
In some temples, daily rituals focus on the Bhoga Murti, with offerings of food, flowers, and other items symbolizing the material and spiritual prosperity that devotees seek. The presence of Bhoga Murti in the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) ensures that the blessings of wealth, health, and happiness are bestowed upon worshippers.
Symbolism of Bhoga Murti
- Chakra and Shankha: The chakra symbolizes the cyclical nature of the universe and time, while the shankha represents purity and the cosmic sound (AUM). These elements emphasize the protector aspect of Vishnu and his role in maintaining cosmic order.
- Abhaya Mudra: The gesture of protection signifies Vishnu’s assurance of safety and peace to devotees.
- Lakshmi and Bhudevi: These consorts highlight Vishnu’s nurturing relationship with both the spiritual and material worlds, embodying prosperity (Lakshmi) and sustenance (Bhudevi).
- Shyama Complexion: Vishnu’s dark blue complexion represents the infinite cosmic waters and the vastness of the universe, reminding devotees of his transcendental nature.
Similar Idols in Hinduism
Other deities in Hinduism also have Bhoga Murti forms, emphasizing joy and abundance:
- Bhoga Ganesha: A form of Lord Ganesha, who is revered as the remover of obstacles and is often worshipped for success and prosperity. In the Bhoga form, he is depicted with offerings and symbols of wealth.
- Bhoga Lakshmi: Goddess Lakshmi, the consort of Vishnu, is often shown in her Bhoga form, surrounded by symbols of wealth and fertility, seated on a lotus with coins flowing from her hands.
- Bhoga Shiva (Soma Shiva): In certain depictions, Lord Shiva can also appear in a more serene, pleasure-giving form, especially in relation to his role as a householder (in contrast to his ascetic form).
Modern Day Relevance
In modern Hindu society, the Bhoga Murti form of Vishnu continues to play a key role in religious life. Many contemporary Hindus turn to this form of Vishnu for blessings of wealth, happiness, and success in their personal and professional lives. In addition, the symbolism of protection and divine grace resonates strongly with people facing challenges in today’s fast-paced world.
The concept of divine enjoyment is also relevant in the context of yoga and spirituality, as the Bhoga Murti represents the balance between spiritual joy and material abundance, encouraging devotees to seek prosperity without attachment or greed.
Lesser-Known Facts
- The Bhoga Murti form of Vishnu is often part of the daily puja (ritual worship) in many South Indian temples, particularly in Tirupati and Srirangam. In these temples, the deity is offered multiple varieties of bhoga (offerings of food) daily as part of the devotional practice.
- In Tantric traditions, the Bhoga form of deities is invoked during rituals designed to channel material success and well-being. This form of Vishnu is associated with Shakta traditions, where Lakshmi plays a more prominent role as the deity of prosperity.
Current Status in Hindu Society
The Bhoga Murti form of Vishnu remains a central aspect of worship, especially in household and temple settings. With its emphasis on happiness and prosperity, it is particularly popular during festivals such as Diwali when devotees seek the blessings of Lakshmi and Vishnu for the coming year.