Nataraja Statue

Nataraja Statue

News: In New Delhi’s Pragati Maidan, a grand 27-foot Nataraja statue, the world’s tallest depiction of Lord Shiva in his dancing form, awaits the arrival of G20 leaders.

About the Masterpiece:
• Crafted from an eight-metal alloy (ashtadhatu) by skilled artisans from Swamimalai, Tamil Nadu. Weighing approximately 18 tonnes, it was transported across the country on a 36- wheel trailer.
• The statue’s design draws inspiration from three revered Nataraja idols – i) Thillai Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram ii) Uma
Maheswarar Temple in Konerirajapuram and iii) Brihadeeswara (Big) Temple in Thanjavur (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).

What was the method used in creating Nataraja statute?
• The 27-foot Bharat Mandapam Nataraja statue was created using the traditional ‘lost-wax’ casting method, indigenous to the Chola era.
• It involves creating a wax model, covering it with a special soil paste, heating it to remove the wax, leaving behind a hollow mould, which is then filled with molten metal. This technique was mastered by the Cholas and is considered a pinnacle of metallurgical artistry.

What is the significance of Shiva as Lord of Dance?
• Nataraja, the Lord of Dance, symbolizes Shiva’s role as both the destroyer and protector.
• He is known to have invented numerous dances, ranging from calm to fierce and orgiastic.

Iconography of Nataraja:
• Nataraja is often depicted within a flaming aureole or halo, representing the circle of the world.
• He has long dreadlocks, signifying the energy of his dance, and four arms.
• In his upper right hand, he holds a damru (hand drum), in the upper left, agni (fire).
• A dwarf-like figure beneath his foot symbolizes illusion.
• Nataraja’s front right hand makes the ‘abhayamudra’ (gesture to allay fear), and he points to his raised feet with his front left hand.
• Despite its complex symbolism, Nataraja typically wears a serene smile, signifying the duality of life and death.