Krishna is a deity worshiped across many traditions in Hinduism in a variety of perspectives. While many Vaishnava groups recognize him as an avatar of Vishnu, other traditions within Krishnaism consider Krishna to be svayam bhagavan, or the supreme being. Krishna is often depicted as an infant, as a young boy playing a flute as in the Bhagavata Purana or as a youthful prince giving direction and guidance as in the Bhagavad Gita. The stories of Krishna appear across a broad spectrum of Hindu philosophical and theological traditions. They portray him in various roles: a god-child, a prankster, a model lover, a divine hero and the Supreme Being. The principal scriptures discussing Krishna's legends are the Mahabharata, the Harivamsa, the Bhagavata Purana and the Vishnu Purana.
Wood carving in India is a traditional art which is passed on by master craftsmen through the generations. India has had an ancient tradition of wood carving. There has been a complete revival of the traditional and antique wood craft, owning to its uniqueness and demand in India and abroad. Indian artisans are experimenting with designs to create a blend of traditional and modern woodcraft. The whole of North India has a tradition of carved wooden doors with intricate designs, brass inlay and trellis work for the windows. Assam, which has extensive forests, has a rich tradition of wood works. Their places of worship included large carvings of mythical figures. In Bengal, the clay houses have large wooden pillars and beams with intricate carvings. Number of folk forms has been developed in woodwork all over India.
