Image title: Figure 59. Aksipta Karana

The right leg is lifted high-right foot is in Kuncita m, right Jangha is in Udvahita, right Janu is in Unnata, right Kati is in Udvahita, the body is bent to almost a horizontal position, right side Parsva is in Prasarita on left and Siras can be said to be in Ancita but pronounced. Left foot in Sama, left Janu is Ardhakuncita. The right hand is thrown up and left hand is thrown down. The dancer seems to be performing Aksipta Cari with the right leg thrown up in Kuncita m.

This stance seems to fit into the description of Aksipta Karana (no. 55) according to which, “When the hands and feet perform actions of Aksiptam [Aksipta] in a fast tempo, it is called Aksiptam [Aksipta].” But ofcourse the bend of the body seems extreme which can be assumed through fast movement.

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.