Nataraja Sculpture

26 Aug 2023

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

Archive Calendar

Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun
 123456
78910111213
14151617181920
21222324252627
28293031  

by month

SRIJAN MAINS

Need help preparing for UPSC or State PSCs?

Connect with our experts to get free counselling & start preparing

Aiming for UPSC?

Download Our App

      
Quick Revise Now !
AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD SOON
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध
Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

<div class="new-fform">






    </div>

    Subscribe our Newsletter
    Sign up now for our exclusive newsletter and be the first to know about our latest Initiatives, Quality Content, and much more.
    *Promise! We won't spam you.
    Yes! I want to Subscribe.