(I found about it in a facebook post and searched for it.) The appearance and worship of idols in South Indian temples, particularly those made of stone (Shila), involve a blend of ancient ritual science, preservation techniques, and symbolic theology.
The “Oily and Black” Appearance
The dark, lustrous sheen you see is rarely the natural color of the stone alone. It is the result of centuries of Abhishekam (ritual bathing) and the application of specific organic substances:
* Gingelly Oil (Sesame Oil): This is the most common oil used for anointing. Over decades and centuries, the stone absorbs the oil, turning it a deep, obsidian black.
* Punugu and Javvadu: These are traditional perfumes and pastes applied to the deity. They have an oily base and contribute to the dark, smooth texture.
* Ashta Bandhanam: This is a special medicinal paste made of eight ingredients (including resin, wax, and herbs) used to fix the idol to its pedestal. This dark resinous material often coats the base.
* Natural Stone: Most South Indian idols are carved from Krishna Shila (black schist or granite), which is naturally dark but becomes remarkably vibrant and “jet black” when hydrated or oiled.
How They Are Worshipped
Worship in these temples follows the Agamas (scriptural manuals for temple rituals). The process is treated as though the deity is a living “Sovereign” or guest.
1. The Abhishekam (The Bath)
The deity is bathed with several cooling and purifying substances, usually in a specific order:
* Panchamrita: A mixture of honey, sugar, ghee, curd, and fruit (often banana or jackfruit).
* Milk and Curd: To signify purity and nourishment.
* Sandalwood Paste: Applied to cool the deity, especially in the tropical heat of South India.
* Turmeric and Kumkum: Used for their antiseptic and auspicious properties.
2. Alankaram (The Decoration)
After the bath, the “oily” idol is dried and elaborately dressed. This is where the visual contrast happens:
* Vastram: The idol is draped in fine silks.
* Jewelry: Golden ornaments, often encrusted with rubies and emeralds, are placed on the deity.
* Flowers: Massive garlands of jasmine, marigolds, and tulsi are used.
3. Deepa Aradhana (The Offering of Light)
Because the sanctum sanctorum (Garbhagriha) is usually dark and the idol is black, the worship reaches its climax when the priest waves various lamps (Aarti). The flickering flames reflect off the oily surface of the black stone, making the features of the idol “pop” or become visible to the devotees standing at a distance.
Why the Oil is Necessary
Beyond ritual, the oil serves a functional purpose. Ancient temples are often humid. Constant exposure to water during rituals could cause certain types of stone to crack or erode. The oil acts as a protective sealant, honey-combing into the pores of the stone and preventing moisture from causing structural damage. It ensures the idol lasts for thousands of years.