Shrine

Since Vishnu is infinite, he also manifests himself in an infinite number of appearances that are capable of becoming active in the world. His ten classical incarnations, the avataras, show an ascendancy from human-animal hybrid forms with a heroic character to purely human forms with redeeming qualities. Among them, Rama and Krishna are the most revered.

Pilgrims purchase these shrines, which are dedicated to the gods depicted on them, in front of the temples to place them at home. Offerings are made to the gods in front of the shrines. On the right is Vishnu in his form as Jagannatha ("Lord of the Universe"), in the middle his sister Subhadra and on the left his brother Balarama.