Harihara is a deity that is half Shiva and half Vishnu, symbolizing the unity of different paths. A story tells of a man devoted only to Shiva who refused to honor Vishnu. Even after Shiva appeared to him, and later as Harihara.. When others teased him, he hung bells over his ears so he would not hear Vishnu’s name. Known as the “bell-eared one,” he serves as a reminder to respect and tolerate all beliefs.