Erotic Temples: Sexual, Spiritual, and Psychiatric Riddles

Hinduism is one of the oldest mainstream religions and over 1.2 billion people follow this faith worldwide. Historically, Hindu temples have played a pivotal role in promoting the righteous way of life to endorse religious, spiritual, and virtuous values in society. Exhibiting splendid sexual sculptures was part of the architecture of all ancient Hindu temples. They incidentally served as brilliant public gathering scenes where communities came together to share celebrations, ideals, values, rituals, customs, and wisdom to pursue life with magnificent mental balance and tranquility. Some of the ancient temples are exclusively erotic in nature, outwardly spotlighting the significance of safeguarding human sexual health and mental well-being. Several scientific papers have been written in recent years on spirituality and mental health. However, little is known in the social science literature on the mental health benefits associated with India’s erotic temples devoted to sexuality and sex in itself. This article presents some insights into the potential mental health benefits extended by erotic Hindu temples dedicated to sexuality, sensual desire, and sexual energy.