Answer
Here, the principle of incarnation is different because the demigods are not the owners of these energies. The deity form is not independently them; it is constituted of Krishna’s energy.
Just as I am a soul residing in a body given by material nature, I am situated in one body at a time. Demigods, however, are empowered by the Supersoul to manifest in multiple forms or bodies. For example, in different Ganesha temples, it is understood that Ganesha can be present in the deity form. In a sense, just as we identify with our body and interact with the world through that bodily concept, similarly, demigods can enter particular deity forms and reciprocate with devotees.
However, this capacity is governed by strict Vedic rules. The presence of a demigod in a deity depends on proper installation (prāṇa-pratiṣṭhā) and adherence to prescribed rituals. Without following these regulations, that presence does not manifest.
In contrast, Krishna’s presence is more accessible. Even if one develops sincere love for Krishna before a picture or an uninstalled deity, Krishna reciprocates. Similarly, the Hare Krishna maha-mantra does not depend on formal initiation or ritual correctness in the same way. When chanted with sincerity and faith, the Lord is present in His name.
Demigod mantras, on the other hand, generally operate within the framework of the three modes of material nature and are governed by specific rules and conditions. But the Hare Krishna mantra is transcendental to such limitations.
For instance, some people—even foreigners—may not be able to pronounce “Krishna” perfectly. Still, if they are chanting to the best of their ability with sincerity, the Lord reciprocates fully. That does not mean pronunciation is unimportant—we should try to improve—but Krishna accepts the intention and effort behind the chanting.
At the same time, if someone has the ability to pronounce properly, they should make the effort to do so. Sometimes, due to long-standing habits, a person may chant imperfectly and find it difficult to change. Even then, what matters most is their sincerity, though gradual improvement is always desirable.
