Decorating the deities is a millennia-old practice that is described in the Hindu epic Ramayana.
CHENNAI, India — The former computer professional — now a very specialized type of artist — locked his gaze on the deity before him.
A computer science graduate, Goutham quit his job nearly a decade ago to pursue his calling. He has since followed in the footsteps of his ancestors as a fifth-generation decorator of temple deities. Decorating the deities is a millennia-old practice that is described in the Hindu epic Ramayana, and Goutham has been learning the art since he was a toddler. He crafted his first formal decoration when he was 13 — at the very altar where he stood 20 years later on a day in November.
"The personality of the deity and the story of the god or goddess could change depending on their weapons, the clothes they wear, the expression on their face or the position in which they are sitting or standing," he said. He sources the deities' arms and legs, mostly made from copper or brass, as well as the weapons and jewelry, from artisans.
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
In India, deity decorating is a calling for Hindu temple artistDecorating the deities is a millennia-old practice that is described in the Hindu epic Ramayana.
Read more »
India blocks BBC documentary on PM Modi from airing in IndiaIndia has blocked the airing of a BBC documentary which questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership during the 2002 Gujarat riots, saying that even sharing of any clips via social media is barred.
Read more »
India blocks BBC documentary on Modi from airing in IndiaIndia has blocked the airing of a BBC documentary which questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership during the 2002 Gujarat riots, saying that even sharing of any clips via social media is barred.
Read more »
India's UltraTech Cement quarterly profit falls 38%India's top cement maker, UltraTech Cement , reported a 38% decrease in quarterly profit on Saturday, dented by a surge in expenses.
Read more »
India's Adani Group plans to demerge more business; dismisses debt concernsIndia's Adani Group, controlled by billionaire Gautam Adani, plans to spin off more businesses by 2028 and dismisses any debt concerns, the group's chief financial officer told Reuters.
Read more »
India Kotak Mahindra Bank's Oct-Dec net profit jumps 31%India's Kotak Mahindra Bank on Saturday reported a 31% increase in standalone net profit for the October-December quarter, aided by a strong topline and healthy loan growth.
Read more »