Welcome to the World of Exotic Indian Paintings |
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Hindu
Gods & Ancient Folk Art Paintings Gallery
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The trident is the symbol of his power, the drum is the symbol of rhythm and sound. Rhythm is the invisible component of the universe and the sound is the conveyer of the word, which carries revelation and the truth divine. Nothing about Shiva is without deep meaning. His matted hair symbolizes power and the crescent moon a symbol of birth and growth. The flow of yogic power springs like a fountain from the top of his head. Some say it is the sacred river Ganga falling upon his head. Bhagirathi prayed for Ganga to fall upon the earth. Force would have called unheard destruction. Shiva interposed his own head between the sky and the earth to lessen the impact. Shiva is universally recognized by the
third eye on forehead. Once, Parvati |
Shiva
is represented in art as an ascetic clad in tiger skin. Unlike Brahma
and Vishnu, the other two of the Holy Trinity, Shiva has no celestial
palace to dwell in. he retires to Mount Kailash to practice austerities-
a homeless wanderer. Contrary to common iconographic representations,
he is shown with two pairs of arms. Two arms emerging from behind
hold a rattle-drum in one hand and a mendicants bowl in the other.
One front hand makes the gesture of blessing and the other carries
the trident.  |
