Why do we do parikrama (go around) deity idols or temples?

#LongThread

Pradakshina (Sanskrit), meaning circumambulation, consists of walking around in a ‘circle’ as a form of worship in Hindu ceremonies in India.

The devotees walk around the garbha griha, the innermost chamber of the shrine housing the temple deity. It is done around the sacred fire (Agni), trees, and plants as well.

Thus, Pradakshina is done around Tulsi plant and Peepal tree. Pradakshina or Parikrama is done in pilgrimage centers also. Pradakshina literally means: to the right (Dakshina means right).

So, in Pradakshina, one goes to the left-hand direction to keep the deity around the Sanctum Sanctorum on one’s right side. Pradakshina is one of the customary aspects of going to a temple.