2. On March 26, 2013 I visited the
Hindu Temple in Malibu, CA.
This temple is dedicated to the
god Venkateswara but it holds
images and statues of many
more important deities as well.
It was the day before the Holi
Colors Festival so the temple
was filled with families who
were there to partake in their
prayers and deliver many
offerings to their gods.
To the left is a statue of Buddha,
this particular mudra, or hand
gesture, is meant to symbolize
peacemaking.
3. This enormous statue of
Buddha greets you at the
entrance of the temple. The
right hand with the index
finger pointing up is a type
of threat, it is meant to ward
off any evil. It is said to
possess very powerful
energy.
4. Here are more examples of the more common mudras: the first signifies
respect and submission, which is why this pose is not found on statues of
Buddha. The second is commonly used to symbolize the granting of
wishes to those who welcome Buddha’s teachings.
5. In preparation of Holi,
which was the
following day the
Hindu community
gathered to offer their
deities food before
the Colors festival
began. When offering
coconuts one must
break them in half
thus representing the
breaking of the ego
and ability to absorb
wisdom.
6. Bhudevi is the
goddess of
mother Earth and
the third
reincarnation of
Lord Vishnu.
Being one of the
more important
figures she is
locked away
behind a gate and
is often presented
with the most
gifts. Pictured are
gallons of milk
and bowls with
home-cooked
meals.
7. People gathered in front of these statues and chanted quietly to themselves, these
are the symbols for fearlessness and protection. They also had the most beautiful
offerings of flowers , fruits ad beadwork.
8. In Hindu mythology nagas are wingless
dragons like creatures who dwelled in
the water. In many stories they are said
to have protected Mount Meru and the
Buddha himself. Around the temple
there are large statues that overlook the
courtyards.
Hindu temples are meant
to represent both the
larger universe with the
large detailed buildings
and the intimate personal
space which is portrayed
indoors.
10. Because of Ganesha’s importance in the
Hindu religion, intricate carvings of
elephants and forms of art are heavily
present in Hindu temples.
It is also a form of respect to enter the
temple without any shoes.
