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Devi Andal, The Only Female Alvar

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Name: Devi Andal, The Only Female Alvar
Brand: Exotic India
SKU: ZEM452
Price: 2655.00 USD
Availability: InStock

$2489.25

$3319

25% off

Includes any tariffs and taxes

She is a Devi that is one-of-a-kind. Beauteous, and the epitome of bhakti in Her devotion to Vishnuavatara Lord Krishna. She is Devi Andal, the only female of the twelve Alvars. The Alvars are a distinguished group of poet-saints of the Tamil world who were Srivaishnava bhaktas of the highest order. Devi Andal, found by Her parents at the base of the sacred tulasi (basil) plant, grew up a bhakta and was widely believed to be the Devi Mahalakshmi Herself.

The Devi Andal iconography is a recurring image in the work of contemporary Southern artisans. In Her bhakti to Vishnuavatara, She has taken after the roopa (form) of Devi Vishnupriya Herself. Tall and slender, well-endowed curves the sign of fecundity and nourishment. The language of Her body is one of incredible grace and poetry. The way it all has been captured in the medium of bronze is a hallmark of the artisan’s skill and shraddha.

The parrot is integral to the iconography of Devi Andal. It is perched on Her left hand, its wings shut around its body as it looks lovingly up at Her handsome moon-like face. Her luscious hair is gathered in a tall bun on top of Her head, secured in place by a crown and a band of lotus petals at the roots. Finally, the kundalas in Her ears are the most signature aspect of Her shringar.

This item can be backordered

Time required to recreate this artwork

12 to 16 weeks

Advance to be paid now

$497.85 (20%)

Balance to be paid once product is ready

$1991.40

Notify me when this item is available

Specifications

	ZEM452
	BRONZE STATUE FROM SWAMIMALAI
	Height: 25.5 inch
	Width: 8.6 inch
	Depth: 10.5 inch
	Weight 23.70 kg

Delivery and Return Policies


	Returns and Exchanges accepted within 7 days
	Free Delivery

Easy Returns

Return within 7 days of
order delivery.See T&Cs

Fully Insured

All orders are fully insured
to ensure peace of mind.

100% Handmade

All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

The Divine Devotion of Devi Andal

This exquisite bronze statue captures the essence of Devi Andal, a figure revered as the only female Alvar saint in South Indian Vaishnavism. Her story is one of profound devotion and spiritual ecstasy, a tale that has inspired countless souls for centuries. Born in the 8th century in Srivilliputhur, Tamil Nadu, Andal was found as an abandoned child and raised by her father, Periyalvar, himself a renowned Alvar poet. From her earliest days, Andal exhibited an extraordinary love for Lord Vishnu, whom she adored with an intensity that transcended worldly concerns.

A Vision of Love and Longing

Andal's devotion manifested as a deep longing to be united with Lord Vishnu, whom she envisioned as her divine groom. She composed soul-stirring devotional hymns, most notably the "Thiruppavai" and "Nachiyar Thirumozhi," which are still recited with great fervor during the Margazhi (winter) festival. These verses express her yearning, her dreams of wedding the Lord, and her fervent prayers to attain him. The statue's graceful pose, with its delicate hand gestures and flowing attire, suggests this spiritual longing and divine contemplation. The presence of a small bird perched on her arm often symbolizes her connection to nature and her ability to communicate with all living beings, reflecting the pervasive influence of her divine love.

Crafted by Master Artisans

This magnificent bronze statue is a testament to the traditional craftsmanship of Swamimalai, a renowned center for bronze icon making in Tamil Nadu. The intricate detailing, from the elaborate headdress to the delicate folds of her garment, showcases the skill and dedication of the artisans. The use of Panchaloha, an alloy of five metals (gold, silver, copper, zinc, and iron), is believed to imbue the sculpture with auspicious qualities and a timeless beauty that deepens with age. This method of casting, passed down through generations, ensures that each statue is a unique masterpiece, imbued with spiritual significance and artistic brilliance.

Embodying Spiritual Elevation

The figure of Devi Andal is not merely a representation of a saint but an embodiment of pure, unadulterated love for the divine. She is celebrated for her courage in challenging societal norms and her unwavering commitment to her spiritual aspirations. Her story reminds us that devotion knows no gender and that a heartfelt connection with the divine is attainable through sincere love and dedication. This statue serves as a constant reminder of these virtues, bringing a sense of peace, inspiration, and spiritual upliftment to any space it adorns. It is an ideal addition for those seeking to connect with the rich spiritual heritage of India and to invite the blessings of this extraordinary devotee into their homes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is the statue hollow or solid ?

A. Panchaloha bronze statues are made through a process of lost wax casting, hence they are solid. To know more about how bronze statues are made, please read our article on Panchaloha Bronze Statues. Whereas, brass statues are made through a process of clay casting, hence are hollow.
Q. Can I see the original photo of the product ?

A. For original pictures of the statue, kindly email us at help@exoticindia.com.
Q. Can I return the statue ?

A. Of course you can return a statue. Returns need to be initiated within seven (7) days after delivery. All returned items must be in new and unused condition, with all original tags and labels attached. To know more about our Return Policy, please visit Return Policy.
Q. Can you customise the statue for me ?

A. For any customisation, a new bronze statue has to be made. To know more, kindly email us at help@exoticindia.com.