Ekapada icons are found in most of the important Shiva temples in South India, in some place or the other, at least carved on a pillar. The Ekapada-Trimurti, found in South India, demonstrates the sectarian mission of the Shaivas (sect of Shiva) to establish their Lord Shiva as the Supreme God and to illustrate that Vishnu and Brahma evolved from him. A similar Vaishnava (sect of Vishnu) icon depicts Vishnu in the central position and Shiva and Brahma emerging from his body. According to another interpretation, the Ekapada icon is that of Shiva in severe penance. Two ascetic attendants, who bow in reverence, emphasize his ascetic nature. In this view, Ekapada is regarded as symbolizing severe asceticism, the granting of wishes or boons, and absolution. The Vishwakarma-shilpa describes the worship of Ekapada as giving material joys.