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Pratima

प्रतिमा pratimā

An image or likeness, in the sense of a reflection; one of the words for a sacred form (alongside murti, vigraha and arca). It names the image as a likeness through which the formless is approached.

Where this term appears

  • What is Navaratri? Worship

    For months, artisans in Kolkata's Kumartuli quarter build the clay pratima , the image of Durga with her lion and her spear and the dying Mahishasura at her feet, flanked by Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesha, and Kar…

  • 'Idol worship' is a mistranslation Journal

    Vigraha , the form a deity graciously takes so it can be served. Pratima , an image in the sense of a reflection or likeness.

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