This common misconception arises from a misunderstanding of the Hindu concept of divine manifestations. The Upanishads clearly state 'Ekam Sat Vipra Bahudha Vadanti' - Truth is One, but sages call it by many names (Rig Veda 1.164.46).
The various deities in Hinduism represent different aspects and functions of the one supreme consciousness (Brahman). Just as sunlight can be refracted into different colors while remaining one light, the divine manifests in various forms while maintaining unity. The Bhagavad Gita (10.8) explains that all creation emanates from one source.
This understanding helps bridge apparent contradictions between polytheistic practices and the underlying monotheistic philosophy of Hinduism.
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