mandir

A mandir is a place of worship in Hinduism. The term is commonly used for Hindu temples and is derived from the Sanskrit word mandira, meaning a house or abode of the divine. Mandirs can be found across India and in Hindu communities worldwide, serving as centers for devotion to one or more deities such as Vishnu, Shiva, Devi, Krishna, Ganesh, and others.

A typical mandir centers on a sanctum called the garbha griha, which houses a murti or symbolic image of the deity. Surrounding spaces include halls known as mandapas for rituals, prayer, and gatherings. Architectural styles vary by region and tradition, with common features such as a tower or spire (shikhara or vimana) and elaborate carvings or sculptures. The layout and ornamentation reflect local aesthetic and religious priorities.

Ritual practice at a mandir includes daily puja (worship), offerings of flowers, food, and incense, and rites such as aarti (devotional singing and lamp-waving). Devotees participate in darshan, the act of viewing the deity, and may receive prasad, blessed food. Priests lead ceremonies, recitations of mantras, bells, and processions, especially during festivals and auspicious dates.

Mandirs serve not only as places of worship but also as community centers. They host religious education, cultural events, weddings, and charitable activities. Festivals such as Diwali, Navaratri, Maha Shivaratri, and Krishna Janmashtami are often celebrated with processions, music, and community feasts, reinforcing social and cultural bonds among devotees and visitors.

Globally, many mandirs reflect local architectural influences while preserving Hindu devotional practices, illustrating the diverse expressions of Hindu temple worship.