Smartism blends a non-dual vision with devotion to many deities, yet it gently steers each seeker toward a personal focus—an Ishta Devata. Often the first whisper comes from family tradition. Grandparents or parents may have worshipped Shiva, Vishnu, Shakti, Ganesha or Surya in a Panchayatana setup; carrying on that thread feels natural, like slipping into a well-worn cloak.

Temperament plays a starring role too. Those drawn to peace and clarity (saattvic) often resonate with Vishnu or Surya. Energetic, passionate types (rajas) may find Shakti’s power a perfect match. Reflective, inward souls (tamas) frequently lean toward Shiva’s stillness. It’s less about ticking boxes and more about sensing which deity’s qualities light up a spark within.

A trusted guru or elder can offer pointers, especially in traditional circles. Yet modern tools have joined the conversation: smartphone apps and online quizzes propose matches based on personality traits or birth stars, though these are best taken with a grain of salt. Recently, during Kumbh Mela livestreams, viewers worldwide noticed how novices gravitated toward the deity whose puja they felt most drawn to—proof that sometimes intuition outweighs algorithm.

Moments of deep meditation or serene reflection often seal the choice. When chanting a deity’s mantra and closing the eyes, a certain presence might feel “home.” It could be a subtle warmth, a vivid image, or simply a sense of utter rightness. That inner click—no louder than a whisper—signals, “This one matches my heart.”

At the end of the day, Smartism celebrates flexibility. Switching focus isn’t frowned upon if life circumstances or spiritual growth call for it. A person might bow to Ganesha during beginnings, turn to Lakshmi amid financial struggles, or to Shiva while seeking inner stillness. Whatever path unfolds, the essence remains clear: devotion fuels realization of the non-dual Self.