Image title: Figure 110. Ardhanikuttaka Karana

The movement is being performed from Mandala Sthana. Siras is in Ancita, the Parsva is slightly bent to right–Nata on right and Samunnata on left. Urah [uras] is in Udvahita, Kati is raised on left side. The right hand is in Alapadma near the right side of the face, the left hand seems to be in Caturasra near the chest (but not very clear). The right Pada is in Sama, the right Janu is Ardhakuncita, the right Jangha is in Nata. Left Pada is in Agratala, left Jangha is in Nata, left Janu is slightly raised in Unnata.

This posture fits into the description of Karana Ardhanikuttaka according to whose description, “The hand is in Alapallava and bent towards shoulders, and the legs are moved up and down. The position of the left foot shows that it is performing Udghattita movement.” This is Karana no.10. The hands are in the right place according to the description. The head is turned away from the hand.

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.