Hindu Idol Worship: Science and Sense

I have come across extensive literature and lectures criticizing Hindu idol worship. However, our spiritual leaders seldom clarify the purpose, science, and significance behind this practice. Many of them appear divided on the subject, and as a result, most of us have doubts about the rationality of idol worship in Hinduism.

I have not encountered any spiritual leader who supports idol worship as it is. It seems that even they are uncertain about it. As I see it, the primary reason for this confusion is that our spiritual leaders are more focused on Yoga and Meditation and less on Self-Knowledge (Jnana Marga - the Path of Knowledge).

I felt an urgent need to address these doubts and misconceptions. This book is my attempt to clarify them. I have tried to answer most of the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on this topic, and having * written this book, I feel deeply fulfilled.

C. SRINIVASA MURTHY had the privilege of seeing and hearing J. Krishnamurti in 1984. He visited Ramana Ashram via Adyar with his parents when he was 19 years old. His parents were deeply interested in Adi Shankara and J. Krishnamurti, and this exposure introduced him to their teachings.

He wrote his first book, Gita - Sankara and J. Krishnamurti, which was published by Motilal Banarsidass, Delhi. His parents also introduced him to the book I Am That by Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj, which had a profound influence on him.

In 1988, he joined a nationalized bank as a probationary officer and served for 28 years. In 2016, he took voluntary retirement to pursue his passions, including reading, teaching, and writing. This book is his second publication.

Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj often said, "A thing is as it is because the universe is as it is." He believed that Truth is realized when everything in the universe contributes to it. C. Srinivasa Murthy states that he attained the realization of the Ultimate Truth in the year 2000.