Image title: Figure 26. Siva as Bhiksatana

This is a sculpture of Siva as Bhiksatana standing in a similar position like the last sculpture. “Traditionally speaking, Shiva Bhikshatana is that hypostasis in which the Supreme Shiva begs.”

He is Caturbhuja here. His Siras is in Udvahita. His front hands are holding a Mrga and Kapala. His back right and left hands are holding a Damaru and Trisula. Next to him is his demoniac attendant Bhutagana following him.

Gallery information:

Kumbakonam is considered as one of the holiest places in Tamil Nadu and is known for its temples and Mathas (monasteries which were centres of Brahmanical learning). These photographs depict the connection between the sculptures in the temples and Natya Shastra and related texts dealing with iconography.