The Tamil Nadu police recently thwarted the planned auction of a unique bronze statue of Nataraja in France. The precious idol, thought to have been stolen from Kayathar in the Thoothukudi district about 50 years ago, once again brings the spotlight to the profound significance and symbolism attached to Lord Nataraja in Hindu mythology.
The Embodiment of Cosmic Dance: Understanding Lord Nataraja
Nataraja, or the ‘Lord of the Dance,’ is an avatar of the Hindu deity Shiva characterized by his dynamic cosmic dance. Frequently depicted in metal or stone, the image of Nataraja graces many Shaivite temples, especially those in South India. In addition to being a visual spectacle, the icon also holds a special place in Chola sculpture tradition.
Symbolism Reflected Through Iconography
Lord Nataraja’s representation is filled with symbolic details that depict various aspects of creation and destruction in the universe. For instance, the damru (drum) in his upper right hand signifies the sound of creation, suggesting that all creations emanate from this primordial sound. On the other hand, the celestial fire held in the upper left-hand signifies destruction, indicating that creation and destruction are two parallel and inseparable processes.
Meaningful Hand Gestures and Postures
In the Nataraja form, Shiva’s lower right hand is shown in the Abhay mudra – a gesture of blessing that reassures devotees not to fear. His lower left hand, pointing towards an upraised foot, symbolizes the path to salvation. He is also shown dancing on a dwarf figure, which represents individual ignorance and ego that one must overcome.
All-encompassing Cosmic Dance
The cosmic dance depicted by Lord Nataraja symbolizes the movement within the universe and the inevitable dissolution of everything at the end of an eon. Shiva’s dreadlocks, flowing freely in the dance, represent the river Ganges, one of Hinduism’s most sacred bodies of water.
Significance of Shiva’s Ornaments
Shiva’s adornments in his Nataraja form also hold symbolic significance. Each of his ears is decorated with a different earring – a male earring in one ear and a female earring in the other. This subtle yet vital detail signifies the fusion of masculinity and femininity, often referred to as Ardhanarishwar in Hindu philosophy.
The Power of Kundalini & Cycle of Time
Additionally, a snake, representing the dormant Kundalini power residing in every human spine, is coiled around Shiva’s arm. Its awakening is believed to help attain true consciousness. Remarkably, Nataraja is encased in a halo of glowing lights, symbolizing the endless cycles of time that govern life and beyond.
The complex symbolism and profound meaning attached to Lord Nataraja have made it a revered icon in Hinduism and beyond. The recent retrieval of the bronze idol from France underscores the ongoing efforts to preserve and protect these precious cultural artifacts that embody the richness and depth of our shared heritage.
Last Modified: February 20, 2024