Nandi, the divine bull, is the vahana (vehicle) of Lord Shiva. Nandi serves as the gatekeeper to the sanctum, symbolizing loyalty and unwavering devotion. The marble Nandi statue is placed directly facing the lingam in the garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum).
A silver palki (palanquin) is elaborately decorated with flowers, fabrics, and other artistic elements. This decoration is a form of cultural expression, showcasing local art and craftsmanship.
A father teaches his child to ring a temple bell. Ringing the bell is considered a way to invite the deity and announce one's presence. The sound of the bell is believed to dispel negative energies and purify the environment.
A niche in the garbhagriha houses goddess Parvati, the embodiment of Shakti, the divine feminine power. Maha Shivaratri is a celebration of the divine union of Shiva and Shakti. Their relationship symbolizes the ideal marital bond and the balance of masculine and feminine energies in the universe.
Aarti (the waving of a flame, usually from a lit lamp, before a deity during prayers) is accompanied by the ringing of bells, the chanting of mantras, and the distribution of prasad (blessed food) among the devotees.
Children apply bhasma (sacred ash) to their forehead, face, and arms. In Shaivism, bhasma (also known as vibhuti) reminds devotees of the transient nature of life, as it is a product of fire and symbolizes the ultimate reality of death and the dissolution of the physical body.
The doorframe of the garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) is adorned with two female figures, while the central positions on either side are occupied by Shaiva dvarapalas (door guardians). Completing the ensemble is the figure of Kubera, the God of wealth.
The doorframe of the garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) has two floral shakhas (vertical bands or branches), a central dominant stambha shakha (pillar-shaped branch) with a purnaghata kalasha (vase and foliage), and an outer shakha adorned with vyalas (composite mythical creatures) arranged in a vertical chain.
The exterior wall of the garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) of the Hazareshwar Temple presents a blend of bhadras (central projections) and stambhas (pillars), creating a captivating visual tapestry. The bhadras, intricately carved on the cardinal directions, serve as focal points of the structure’s architectural elegance, while the stambhas fill the spaces in between.
The frontal face of the shikhara (superstructure) reveals the placement of two half spires flanking the main spire. At the base of the spire, a surasenaka (pediment made of chaitya dormer) adorns the structure, while a sculpture depicts a simha (lion) pouncing upon an elephant, adding a touch of regal splendour to the architectural composition.