The story

The Hindu tradition is a tradition of the home, and the home altar is an important part of a Hindu household.  Each family makes the house a sanctuary, a refuge from the concerns and worries of the world. The center of that sanctuary is the shrine. 

 Puja, the prayer ritual,  is performed daily—usually in the early morning, but also in the afternoon or evening—generally by the head of the house. All members of the family attend. Rites can be as simple as lighting a lamp and offering a flower at the Lord’s holy feet, or they can be most elaborate and detailed, with myriad Sanskrit chants and offerings.

This shrine was beautifully carved out of sandstone and has stunning pieced details.