In the sacred
hall of Chidambaram Temple, Shiva and Kali were engaged in a dance-off. Every
step of Nataraja was outdone by the ethereal dance of Shakti.
Then Shiva
performed the Urthava (upside) or Urdhva Tandava, bending his foot to his head,
a pose that the goddess could not perform due to feminine coyness.
One of the 108
postures of Tandava, Urdhva Tandava is commemorated through this temple
legend in the town of Thanjavur, whose iconography and stories have been
inspired by the bronzes of dancing Shiva.
Standing on a
lotus pedestal with handles that make it portable, Shiva appears with
Jatamukuta adorned by a crescent, circular, and Makara kundala in each ear,
jeweled necklaces, two-strand Yajnopavita, tiger hide dhoti and tasseled
waistband that sways dynamically to capture the rudeness of Shiva’s dance.
With a
sharpness in the right and suppleness in the left half of Shiva’s body, this
Panchaloha statute is an embodiment of the duality and balance that Nataraja
stands for.
The Cosmic Dance of Creation and Destruction
Behold a breathtaking representation of Lord Shiva in his most dynamic form, the Urdhava Tandava
. This magnificent bronze sculpture captures the divine energy and cosmic fury of Shiva as he performs his celestial dance, a primal force that simultaneously creates and destroys the universe. In this awe-inspiring posture, Shiva stands on one leg, his other leg raised with an impossible grace, embodying the balance and paradox that are central to Hindu philosophy. Each limb is positioned with intention, conveying a sense of controlled power and supreme mastery over the forces of existence.An Ancient Artistry: Madhuchista Vidhana
This exquisite piece is crafted using the ancient Madhuchista Vidhana
technique, also known as the lost-wax casting method. This meticulous process, perfected over centuries by master artisans, involves creating an intricate wax model that is then covered in clay. Once the clay mold is fired, the wax melts away, leaving a hollow cavity. Molten bronze, in this case a sacred Panchaloha
alloy of five metals, is then poured into this cavity. Upon cooling, the mold is broken, revealing the finished bronze sculpture. The artisans of Swamimalai, a village renowned for its bronzework, have preserved this heritage, infusing each creation with spiritual significance and unparalleled craftsmanship. The aged patina, a testament to time and reverence, adds a depth and character that speaks of its sacred origins.Mythological Significance and Symbolism
The Urdhava Tandava is more than just a dance; it is a visual metaphor for the eternal cycle of creation, preservation, and dissolution. It is believed that Shiva performs this dance at the peak of cosmic destruction, just before the universe is recreated. His raised leg symbolizes the lifting of illusion, the transcendence of worldly attachments, and the attainment of liberation. The fire in one hand represents the annihilation of ignorance and ego, while the other hand, held in the *abhaya mudra*, offers protection and solace. The damaru drum in another hand symbolizes the primordial sound from which all creation emanates. This sculpture is a powerful reminder of the impermanence of all things and the profound, ever-present divine energy that governs the cosmos. Its presence is said to bring balance, dispel negativity, and foster spiritual growth.A Masterpiece for Devotion and Artistry
This Lord Shiva Swaroop is not merely a decorative item; it is a sacred icon, an embodiment of divine power and artistic excellence. Standing at an impressive 19 inches, its commanding presence will enrich any space, be it a home altar, a meditation room, or a collector's display. The detailed ornamentation, from the elaborate crown and jewelry to the flowing garments and the intricately designed pedestal, showcases the exceptional skill of the Swamimalai artisans. This bronze masterpiece is a testament to the enduring legacy of Indian art and spirituality, a timeless treasure to be cherished for generations.
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