The recent news highlights the handover of 157 antiquities and artefacts to the Prime Minister by the United States, including a bronze Nataraj figure. These items display a diverse range, from a bas-relief panel of Revanta in sandstone dated back to the 10th century, to other relics such as terracotta pieces, bronze figurines and copper objects that mainly originate from the 11th and 14th centuries. The collection also includes an 18th-century sword in its sheath, with a Persian inscription mentioning Guru Hargobind Singh, along with numerous historical antiquities representing Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
The Highlighted Artefact: The Bronze Nataraj Figure
A notable artefact is a bronze statue of Nataraja or Lord of the Dance, a depiction of the Hindu god Shiva. This form of Shiva as the cosmic dancer is frequently seen in Shaivite temples, especially those in South India. This artefact is considered a significant piece of Chola sculpture.
Symbolism and Significance of the Nataraja
The Nataraja’s upper right-hand holds a drum representing the sound of creation, illustrating that all creations emerge from the powerful sound of the damru. His upper left-hand holds the eternal fire, symbolising destruction as an essential part of creation. The lower right hand is raised in the gesture of Abhay mudra, offering blessings and reassurance to devotees. The lower left-hand points towards the upraised foot, demonstrating the path to salvation. Shiva’s dance on the dwarf figure signifies overcoming ignorance and individual ego.
Nataraja: A Representation of Cosmic Movement
The Nataraja personifies the source of all cosmic movement. The god’s doomsday dance, represented by the arch of flames, accompanies the dissolution of the universe at the end of an eon. Shiva’s matted and flowing locks represent the flow of the river Ganges.
The Fusion of Male and Female
Interesting ornamentation is seen in Shiva’s earrings; one ear has a male earring while the other has a female. This signifies the integration of male and female forces, often termed as Ardhanarishwar.
The Significance of the Snake Symbol
Shiva’s arm is wrapped in a snake, symbolising the dormant kundalini power in the human spine. If awoken, it can lead to the attainment of true consciousness.
Unending Cycles of Time
The glowing lights surrounding the Nataraja symbolize the vast, unending cycles of time, emphasizing the eternal nature of the cosmic dance.
