Each Hindu temple in India is unique: its architecture, decoration, size and contents stem from its own history and purpose. Whether in small towns or large cities, most temples are built on sites that have been dedicated to worship for as long as anyone knows. Hindu temples most often center on one of three primary deities: Shiva or Vishnu, both Gods, or Shakti, the Goddess. The central image might be a hand-carved icon or a natural stone that has been viewed as sacred for thousands of years. Around it, the temple grows through contributions from grateful devotees whose prayers have been answered by the deities.
Hinduism is not a congregational religion, and many sacred rituals take place in the home or at community shrines. Still, there are numerous occasions for group activities. Religious festivals involve the entire community and usually include special rituals of worship, or puja, at nearby temples. And on a daily basis, temples may be visited any time from early morning until late night. Hindu temples are centers of life where devotees pray, talk with friends, take part in discussions led by scholars and priests, eat blessed food and even take naps in the heat of the day.
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