Image title: Figure 117. Prasarpitaka Karana

The torso is slightly bent to the right. The Sthana is Pratyalidha. The Siras is also bent to that side in Ancita. The right hand is in Lata Hastam [Hasta], the left hand is in Katakamukha at the chest. The Parsva is in Nata on the right side and Samunnata on the left. The Kati is raised on the left side (Udvahita). The right leg is stretched out. The right Pada is in Sama, right Jangha is unbent, right Janu is in Sama and right Uru is in Stambhana. Left Pada is in Sama, left Jangha is in Nata (bent), left Janu is in Ardhakuncita.

This can be identified as Karana Prasarpitaka (no.88) according to whose description, “One hand is in Lata, another hand is in Recita and the soles graze the ground.” The soles need to be moved without lifting, only rubbing the ground. This sculpture seems to be a variation of Prasarpitaka since the left hand is in Katakamukha at the chest. But this also suggests that this can be performed with Katakamukha and Lata.

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.