Harihara (हरिहर)

Harihara is revered as a composite form uniting Vishnu (Hari) and Shiva (Hara) in a single icon. Themes of sectarian harmony, theological unity and the meeting of Shaiva and Vaishnava traditions are central to the way devotees, storytellers and temple traditions understand this figure. Recognisable attributes can include half-Vishnu half-Shiva body with combined attributes. Readers may also know the deity by names such as Shankaranarayana. Interpretations are not identical across India, and older texts, regional traditions and modern devotional practice may emphasise different aspects. A strong reference entry should therefore present the main tradition first, label regional variants clearly, and connect the mythology to symbols, festivals, temples and respectful worship practices that readers are likely to search for today.