A dressed deity accumulates oils, pigments and moisture. A short routine after each session prevents almost all long-term damage.

Daily routine

1. Remove and store cloth and jewellery.

2. Wipe the deity with a soft dry cloth.

3. After abhishek, dry the stone fully, including base edges.

4. Dress and re-adorn.

Jewellery and metal contact

Metal ornaments left in contact with damp marble can leave marks. Dry the deity before re-dressing, and avoid storing damp cloth against the stone.

Festival handling

During festivals, offerings and pigments increase. Clear flowers and food residue the same day. If oil or ghee touches the stone, wipe it off rather than letting it oxidise.

Deep cleaning

Use plain water or a pH-neutral stone cleaner applied with a soft cloth. Never use vinegar, lemon, abrasives or steam.

Long-term

If the polish dulls after years of worship, professional repolishing restores the surface. This is normal maintenance for a working deity, not damage.

Frequently asked questions

Can metal jewellery damage a marble deity?

Metal left in contact with damp marble can leave marks. Dry the deity fully before re-dressing and avoid storing damp cloth against the stone.

How do I clean a marble Radha Krishna murti?

Wipe with plain water or a pH-neutral stone cleaner using a soft cloth. Never use acidic cleaners, abrasives or steam.

Is it normal for a marble deity polish to dull over time?

Yes. With years of daily worship the polish can dull. Professional repolishing restores it.

Where to go next

• Radha Krishna murtis

• How to dress a Radha Krishna deity