Handmade sculptures have a long and revered tradition in India, with a wide variety of artistic styles, materials, and themes. These sculptures serve both religious and artistic purposes and are used in various contexts. Here are some types of handmade sculptures commonly used and admired in India:

Hindu Deity Sculptures: Statues and sculptures of Hindu deities are widespread throughout India. These sculptures are used in temples, shrines, and homes for worship and religious ceremonies. Deities like Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, Goddess Durga, Lord Ganesha, and many others are often depicted in various forms and poses.
Buddha Statues: India is the birthplace of Buddhism, and handmade Buddha statues are significant in Buddhist temples and monasteries. These statues represent the Buddha in various meditation and teaching postures.
Jain Tirthankara Statues: Jainism, another ancient Indian religion, has handmade statues of its 24 Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers). These sculptures are revered in Jain temples.
Yakshi and Yaksha Figures: These are ancient, indigenous deities associated with nature and fertility. They are often depicted in sculptures and are revered in rural and tribal communities.
Nataraja Sculptures: The Nataraja, a depiction of Lord Shiva as the cosmic dancer, is a famous and intricate sculpture symbolizing creation and destruction. It is widely used in temples and as a symbol of classical Indian dance.
Erotic Art at Khajuraho: The temples of Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh are renowned for their intricate and explicit erotic sculptures that depict various aspects of human life and relationships.
Tanjore Paintings: While not traditional sculptures, Tanjore paintings are three-dimensional artworks that are adorned with semi-precious stones and gold leaf. They are often found in South Indian temples and homes.
Tribal Sculptures: Various tribal communities in India create handmade sculptures that reflect their cultural and spiritual beliefs. These sculptures often depict tribal deities, animals, and daily life.
Sculptures in Architecture: Handcrafted sculptures are integrated into the architecture of ancient temples, palaces, and forts. They adorn the walls, pillars, and facades of these structures, often telling stories from mythology.
Warli Art: While not traditional sculptures, Warli art is a form of tribal art originating from the Warli tribe in Maharashtra. It features intricate, hand-painted depictions of rural life, rituals, and folklore on walls and floors.
Terracotta Sculptures: Terracotta sculptures are made from clay and are popular in various parts of India. These sculptures depict everyday life, animals, and deities.
Bronze Statues: Handcrafted bronze statues of deities and historical figures are created using the lost-wax casting technique. They are often displayed in temples and homes.
Marble Sculptures: Marble sculptures are commonly used in Rajasthan, especially in the creation of intricate idols and decorative pieces.
Stone Carvings: Various regions in India are known for their stone-carved sculptures, used in architectural elements, temple carvings, and standalone art pieces.
Wooden Sculptures: Craftsmen create intricate wooden sculptures often used for religious and decorative purposes.

These handmade sculptures in India showcase the country’s artistic diversity, cultural heritage, and spiritual traditions. They are integral to the cultural and religious tapestry of the country, and many are admired and preserved as valuable pieces of art and history.