Image title: Figure 92. Sannata Karana

Siras is in Ancita (bent slightly to the right), Parsva is in Samunnata on left and Nata on the right, Urah [uras] is in Udvahita, Kati is in Udvahita on the right side. Right leg is lifted backwards. Right Uru is in Udvartana, right Janu is in Unnata, right Jangha is in Parivrttam [Parivrtta] (lifted behind), right Pada is in Kuncita m. Left Pada is in Sama but turned to the side, left Jangha is in Nata, left Janu is in Ardhakuncita.

This leg posture is that of Vrscika Karana. The hands are held near the face on left side and the hands seem to be in Alapadma.

This can be classified as Sannata - Karana 75. According to Abhinavagupta “The Harinapluta Cari is to be performed followed by cross of shanks and the hands suggested are Dola Hasta.” “This Vrscika Karana seems to depict the Harinapluta Cari. Sannata means “to close”. So Samputa Hasta can be used to perform the Karana.” The hands here perhaps indicate the stage before assuming Samputa.

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.