The Representative Deity
Selvar (Tamil: 'the wealthy one' / 'the precious one') is a term for a deity image that represents the utsavar in specific ritual contexts — particularly in settings where the main processional image is engaged elsewhere. The selvar is treated with the same honor as the utsavar itself, since Bhagavān's presence in the arcā form is complete in any consecrated image.
Yāga Berar
A related term is yāga berar — the deity installed at the yāga śālā (fire-sacrifice hall) during specific Āgamic rituals like the Pavitrotsavam (the festival of purification). The yāga berar serves a specific liturgical function, receiving the purifying effects of the fire ritual on behalf of the main deity.
Theological Continuity
The use of representative images for specific ritual functions (selvar, yāga berar) reflects the Pañcarātra principle that Bhagavān's presence in the arcā is not divided or diminished by having multiple images — each consecrated image is a complete manifestation of His gracious presence.