A home temple is a small, fixed space, and the idol has to work within it — in height, in weight, in the direction it faces and in how easily it can be cleaned and dressed. This guide covers what to choose and why.

• 9 to 18 inch idols suit most home mandir niches

• Measure height first, then subtract clearance for crown and dressing

• Face the deity east or north-east where the room allows

• Choose one clear focal deity rather than many small idols

Families usually want two things from a home temple idol: a devotional focal point and a piece that will not need to be replaced. Marble satisfies both, because it is stable, easy to keep clean and does not lose detail over time.

Start with the space, not the idol

Measure the mandir height, width and depth. Then subtract the height of any crown, halo or raised base, and leave two to three inches above for dressing the deity and for air circulation. Only then decide on idol size.

Vastu and placement

Traditionally the idol faces the worshipper, so the worshipper faces east or north-east. Keep the mandir away from a shared wall with a bathroom, and avoid placing idols directly at the foot of a bed. Our installation guide walks through the practical steps.

Which deity for a home temple

Ganesh is the most common single idol. Radha Krishna or a Ram Darbar suit families who want a central pair or group. Families often keep a second, smaller idol for festival rotation rather than crowding the main niche.