Who Is Vishnu in Hinduism? Dashavatara, Vaishnavism, and Bengal’s Bhakti Movement
Vishnu is one of the principal deities of Hinduism, traditionally regarded as the preserver and sustainer of the cosmic order (Dharma). His role is extensively described in sacred texts such as the Rigveda, Mahabharata, and various Puranas, where he is praised as the divine protector of all creation. The doctrine of his ten incarnations—Dashavatara—illustrates his recurring intervention on earth to restore righteousness during times of moral decline.
The devotional tradition centered around Vishnu is known as Vaishnavism, a major branch of Hindu religious practice and philosophy. In Bengal, the devotional movement Gaudiya Vaishnavism was initiated by Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in the 16th century, emphasizing loving devotion (bhakti) towards Krishna, one of Vishnu’s most celebrated avatars. Vishnu’s influence extends beyond theology, permeating South Asian literature, iconography, classical art, and temple architecture.
— Md Shahin Alam, Heritage Writer & Researcher
Image: Vishnu, Period: Circa 10th – 11th Century CE (?), Mainamati Museum, Department of Archaeology, Cumilla, Bangladesh.