deitiesVaishnavism

Vaishnavism is one of the major traditions within Hinduism, with a central focus on the worship of Vishnu as the supreme being. Vishnu is often depicted as a preserver and protector, and his avatars, or earthly incarnations, play a crucial role in Vaishnavite theology. Prominent avatars include Rama, the hero of the Ramayana, and Krishna, a central figure in the Bhagavad Gita and Mahabharata.

Devotees of Vaishnavism, known as Vaishnavites or Vaishnavas, believe that by surrendering to Vishnu and his chosen avatars, they can achieve liberation (moksha). The worship typically involves chanting the names of Vishnu and his avatars, singing devotional songs (bhajans and kirtans), and performing rituals. Temples dedicated to Vishnu and his consorts, such as Lakshmi, are central to Vaishnavite practice, and pilgrimages to these sacred sites are considered highly meritorious. The tradition encompasses a wide range of philosophical schools and practices, but the overarching theme remains devotion (bhakti) to Vishnu.