Nataraja Sculpture

Context:

A 28-feet Nataraja statue meant to be placed in front of the venue of the G20 Leaders’ Summit scheduled in New Delhi.

About 28-Feet Nataraja Sculpture:

• Ashtadhatu: The statue weighs 19 tonnes and is made of eight metals viz. gold, silver, lead, copper, tin, mercury, iron and zinc.
• Height: The statue is 22 feet in height, and the pedestal is six feet, making the entire structure 28 feet tall. 
• Model: The model of Chidambaram, Konerirajapuram and other Natarajas of the Chola period was followed in making this statue.
• Casting: Sculptors follow the lost-wax casting method. This is a time-tested method, used since the days of the Cholas.

Nataraja Sculpture: Meaning of Postures and Poses

• As a symbol, Nataraja combines in a single image Shiva’s role as creator, preserver, and destroyer of the universe and conveys the Indian conception of the never-ending cycle of time.Although it appeared in sculpture as early as the fifth century, its present, world-famous form evolved under the rule of the Cholas.
• Shiva’s dance  is set within a flaming halo.
  • Upper Right Hand: Holds the damaru (hand drum that made the first sounds of creation). 
  • Upper Left Hand: Holds agni (the fire that will destroy the universe).
  • Lower Right Hand: He makes Abhaya Mudra (the gesture that allays fear). 
  • Lower Left Hand and Left Foot: Gestures toward that holy foot in assurance that Siva’s grace is the refuge for everyone.
  • Right Foot: The dwarf-like figure being trampled by his right foot represents Apasmara Purusha (illusion which leads mankind astray).
  • Flying Hairs: The locks of Shiva’s hair stand out in several strands interspersed with flowers, a skull, a crescent moon, and the figure of Ganga.
• The symbols imply that, through belief in Shiva, his devotees can achieve salvation.

News Source: The Hindu