ISSN: 2265-6294

SOCIAL PATTERNING THROUGH RITUALISTIC PUBLIC PERFORMANCE

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Rachana Sharma

Abstract

‘Puja’ is a sacred ceremonial act in the Hindu religion which unifies social groups. The tradition of Puja has persisted through its sanctity and plainness, which has shifted to a more adaptable and individualistic form of doing it. Nonetheless, it remains rigorously and conventionally practised. The temples made the Puja form of worship an important and integral theistic practice of Hinduism. At the manifest level, temple Puja can be considered a unifying act; however, the unity of Puja is not necessarily the unity of the groups. The very act of performing Puja in itself is restricted, and the very fundamentals of the sacred ritual are built upon the power relation. Through an analysis of the various phases and components of temple Puja, the research seeks to uncover how intricate bonds between participants, such as those between the deity and the performer, are established, revealing underlying power dynamics. Additionally, the examination of Puja narratives and prayers sheds light on how these rituals reflect and perpetuate social hierarchies and relationships. By delving into the complexities of temple Puja and its role in shaping social dynamics, this study offers insights into the multifaceted nature of religious practices and their impact on broader social structures. Through this exploration, a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between ritual, power, and social patterning is sought, enriching our comprehension of Hindu religious traditions and their sociocultural significance.

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