Design Ethnography | Objects used in Hindu Rituals
Rituals are a part of everyday practice in Hinduism and not just a relic of the past. Hinduism, one of the largest and oldest beliefs in the world, is based on rituals and sacred customs that go beyond deities and icons and becomes a way of life. Holy objects and material culture form the basis of Hindu worship. The play and performance that these objects embody create a spellbinding sensory theatre and an evolving spiritual relationship.
This ethnographic exploration of the design, art, and craftsmanship that these ritual objects showcase is an exploration of a rich tradition followed by generations of believers. These sacred items are the most practical connecting pathway to understanding the world of Hindu rituals. The goal is to understand and articulate the intricacies of cultural symbols in the faith and how it connects to lived experiences.
The physical substances involved in a puja offering are the quintessential spirit of divinity manifested through acts of piety and prayers. There is a positive psychological connection between the illumination of oil lamps and the aroma of incense sticks. The puja is also bound to the musical acoustics of the gong, bells, and conch shells. The holy water pots, sandalwood paste, vermillion, mauli, mortar and pestle, and many other objects are intrinsic to the ceremonial space around the shrine. The objects are usually made from an amalgamation of metals called the ‘panchloha’, comprising brass, copper, silver, gold, and iron. Betel nuts, tulsi (sacred basil plant), flowers, banana leaves, coconut, and countless other natural and organic offerings radiate the sacrosanct purity of rituals. Rangoli, alpana, kollam and other markings adorning the floors and walls represent the ethos of everyday performative art practices of Hinduism.
Ritual objects are sites of artisanal simplicity and philosophical meanings. They display an aesthetic and spiritual essence — perfect synchrony between religious practice and elementary design. This ethnographic curation is a note of appreciation exalting the cultural and social significance of Hindu ritual objects.
