Priests made the traditional huge clay idol of the goddess at the temple's portico.
"They were brought to the U.S. inside a clay idol," Barris said.
While modern society no longer worships clay idols, many nevertheless are drawn to experiences and possessions that promise to confer power and purpose.
Return to the traditional use of natural clay idols and immerse the icon in a bucket of water at home.
Later, they took to making clay idols in demand in the mansions that grew up all around.
The clay idol of the main deity in the temple is historically believed to be up to 5000 years old.
They've set up a sort of an altar with a clay idol on it, and they're doing things people shouldn't do in public.
I shouldn't really say %a, u c mmscr ca Azash to that clay idol in the shrine near Gbanda.
The festival begins with people bringing in clay idols of Ganesha, symbolising Ganesha's visit.
Beautifully painted and decorated clay idols of Goddess Gowri can be bought at the local market.