Nataraja (the dancing portrait of god), is a revered depiction of the supreme (god) 'Shiva' as the cosmic dancer, embodies the interconnected cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction. This iconic representation captures Shiva’s dynamic energy through the dance, symbolizing the rhythmic pulse of the universe and the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
Encircled by flames, Nataraja’s dance expresses the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and harmony amidst constant change. Through its rich symbolism, the image of Nataraja has become a powerful cornerstone in Hindu iconography, reflecting both cosmic principles and the pursuit of spiritual wisdom.
☝️The statue of the "Dancing Shankara", which is commonly known as Shiva Nataraja holds deep symbolic significance in ancient Indian philosophy and spirituality.
🌺As the “Lord of the Dance,” Shiva is shown in dynamic movement, encircled by fire/flames. This cosmic dance symbolizes the cyclic process of creation, preservation, and destruction—emphasizing that life, the universe, and all existence are in a constant state of flux/change.
🍀The raised foot represents liberation and detachment from the material world, while the demon (5 vices) crushed under Shiva’s other foot symbolizes 𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 (𝐌𝐚𝐲𝐚).
The various hand gestures (mudras) convey protection, enlightenment, and again, the cyclical nature of time.
➤Overall, the dancing Shankara embodies the balance of energies, the interplay of form and formlessness, of cyclic nature of creation, and the path of "spiritual awakening".
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𝐵𝓁𝑒𝓈𝓈𝒾𝓃𝑔𝓈...
Oᑎ ᘜOᗪᒪY SᗴᖇᐯIᑕᗴ,
𝕸𝖆𝖓𝖆𝖌𝖊𝖗, 𝕾𝖆𝖒𝖆𝖉𝖍𝖆𝖓, 𝕾𝖍𝖎𝖛 𝕭𝖆𝖇𝖆 𝕾𝖊𝖗𝖛𝖎𝖈𝖊𝖘 𝕴𝖓𝖎𝖙𝖎𝖆𝖙𝖎𝖛𝖊 (SBSI)
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