Bender Bending Rodriguez is a comic anti-hero of the animated series Futurama. Being a robot, however, he is intelligent and has absolutely free will. In the animated series, Bender was produced in a factory in Tijuana, Mexico, which makes him Mexican in origin. Before the series events and his acquaintance with the main characters, he worked in a metal processing plant bending steel beams. In most cases, Bender is a cynic, misanthrope, and egoist, who panics first in a critical situation. He also often smokes cigars, swears, and suffers from alcohol dependence. Bender is fond of cooking; however, the food prepared by him is often inedible and life-threatening. Despite his bad character, he sometimes shows sympathy and courage and values his friends.
The shrine is small in size and made from available materials. The base of the altar is made of a cardboard box with a removed top cover. It is painted a light gray, representing the metal Bender is made of. The shrine is upright, with a lower base wider than the top to ensure a stable position. Inside the shrine there is an image of Bender; his gaze is directed at the beholder. According to Darsan, eye contact is necessary to contemplate the object of worship. It is also essential to make sure that the deity can see his worshiper. In the animated series, Bender is the personification of charisma and charm, which is also reflected in his shrine. The shrine’s inner surface is adorned with shiny paper, glitter, and other decorations to symbolize his bright personality. The word “charisma” comes from the ancient Greek language, where it meant a gift from God. Bender has exceptional qualities, which he presents in the form of an altarpiece. Thus, as an offering, he can accept coins, shiny stones, pieces of foil, alcohol, furs, which reflects his preferences and nature.
In paganism, it is customary to decorate shrines with candles and objects associated with the object of worship. Thus, there is a small candle in the lower part of the altar near the image. Items related to Bender’s personality are also presented inside. The small stone represents his passion for cooking but his inability to prepare something edible. There is also a shining foil which symbolizes his craving for luxury; the coin serves as a sign of his greed and desire for wealth. A small skull image indicates Bender’s mortality, which is peculiar to him and not typical for a robot. Moreover, the skull refers to the beholder of the Mexican Day of the Dead and Bender’s origins. Moreover, inside the altar, you can see several artificial flower buds, which also personifies the Mexican tradition. Thus, Bender Bending Rodrigez’s Shrine is presented as the gratitude for the existence of such an interesting character, as well as reverence for his charisma and humor. Making offerings to the altar, one can hope for a blessing that will bring the worshipper self-confidence and increased charm.