Image title: Figure 181. Garuda.

On top of this pillar is carved Garuda holding Anjali Hasta, eyes closed, in Ayata Sthana. Below Garuda is the figure of a lady holding the Vina. She is also standing in Ayata Sthana. Her ornaments and dress are beautifully carved. Her right leg is absolutely straight, her right Pada is in Sama. Her left leg is slightly bent, kept at ease. Left Pada is in Tryasra. Kati is lifted in Udvahita on the right side. Her torso is slightly bent to the left side. Several rows of necklaces, waist belt, bangles and armlets give her an exquisite look. Siras is in Sama, Parsva is in Samunnata on left and Nata on right.Cannot identify any Cari or Karana.

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.