ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Mandir kalash

Okay kiddo, have you ever seen a building called a temple or mandir? A mandir kalash is something that sits on top of the roof of that building. Think of it like a hat for the temple!

The kalash is a special pot or vessel made of metal, usually copper or brass, with a pointed bottom and a circular, bulbous top. It looks a bit like an upside-down cone with a rounded, shiny top. The kalash is usually filled with water, grains, and other holy items.

In Hinduism, the kalash is considered symbolic of the entire universe, and the water and other offerings inside represent the elements of nature - air, water, earth, fire, and ether (or space). So when the kalash is placed atop a temple, it is a way of acknowledging the power and presence of the divine that pervades everywhere in the universe.

The kalash is often decorated with motifs like lotus flowers or sacred symbols, and it is considered a source of positive energy and blessings. So, whenever you see a mandir kalash, remember that it's more than just a piece of pot, it's a symbol of the divine in the universe that Hindus revere and respect.