Nataraja Figurine (Dancing Shiva) – Brass, 13 cm

Nataraja - Dancing Shiva Figurine, 13 cm – Lord of the Cosmic Dance

Technical Specifications

Dimensions: Height: approximately 13 cm
Material: Brass

Spiritual Significance and Origin (Nataraja)

Nataraja is the Hindu deity Shiva in the role of the divine cosmic dancer. The word Nataraja originates from Sanskrit, where "Nata" means dancer and "raja" represents ruler or lord – Nataraja therefore means Lord of the Dance.

Nataraja symbolizes the destruction and recreation of the universe and the constant cycle of life and death. His dance, called Ananda Tandava, is the dance of bliss that holds the entire universe in dynamic equilibrium.

Symbolism of the Statue and Four Arms

The Nataraja figurine is one of the richest iconographies in Hinduism, illustrating the five divine acts (Pancha Kritya): creation, protection, destruction, embodiment, and liberation.

• Four Arms: Represent the four directions, power, and divine actions:
  • Upper Right Hand: Holds the drum (Damaru), which symbolizes Creation and the first sound of the universe.
  • Upper Left Hand: Holds fire (Agni), which symbolizes Destruction (transformation).
  • Lower Right Hand: Is in the Abhaya Mudra pose (a gesture that dispels fear and symbolizes Protection).
  • Lower Left Hand: Points to the raised foot, which symbolizes Liberation (Moksha).
• Foot on the Dwarf (Apasmara): Represents the Triumph over Ignorance (Apasmara Purusha).
• Ring of Fire (Prabha Mandala): Around the figure symbolizes the Universe and the continuous cycle of time.