Supreme Deities

Shiva is the Supreme Being in Shaivism. He is the cosmic dancer (Nataraja) who destroys the universe to recreate it. Meditating on Kailash, he is the ultimate ascetic and the patron of yoga and arts.

Vishnu is the preserver of the universe, balancing the cosmic forces of creation and destruction. He descends to earth in various avatars (Dashavatara) whenever dharma is threatened by adharma (evil).

Durga is the principal form of the Mother Goddess. She represents the divine radiant energy (Shakti) that overcomes evil and protects the righteous. She was created by the combined anger of all the gods to slay the demon Mahishasura.

Ganesha is the elephant-headed deity widely revered as the remover of obstacles, the patron of arts and sciences, and the deva of intellect and wisdom. He is honored at the beginning of rites and ceremonies.

Krishna is the eighth avatar of Vishnu and a supreme deity in his own right. He is the central figure of the Mahabharata, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Bhagavata Purana. Known for his divine flute, love for Radha, and philosophical teachings.

Hanuman is a Vanara companion of Lord Rama, known for his unwavering devotion, immense strength, and celibacy. He is the central figure in the Ramayana and is revered as a symbol of strength and energy.

Lakshmi is the Goddess of wealth, fortune, power, beauty, and prosperity. She is the consort of Lord Vishnu and accompanies him whenever he descends to earth in his avatar forms.

Saraswati is the Goddess of knowledge, music, arts, wisdom, and learning. She is the consort of Lord Brahma and is revered by scholars, students, and artists. She is seen dressed in pure white, riding a swan.