Image title: Figure 11. Dancing figures

The figure on the right is holding a musical instrument Mridangam. Gives an idea about musical instruments prevalent at that time when the temple was built.

Siras is bent to left side in Ancita, Urah is in Sama and Parsva is unbent, Janu are in Ardha Kuncita, Jangha are in Nata, Pada are in Sama, Kati is not in movement. Sthana is Mandala. Left hand is on the drum and right hand is raised as if in appreciation. Hasta looks like Pataka in Uttana.This is a male figure.

Figure on the left is standing in Abhanga posture in Ayata Sthana. Right leg is straight and unbent with toes facing the front. Weight is on right foot.The right Kati is raised–Udvahita as if in amorous movement. The left leg is placed gently with a slight knee bend. The left foot is in Tryasra. Left hand is in Uru Hasta. Right hand is broken and not clear. There is no Karana in Bharata’s Natya Sastra which

coordinates with this particular stance. She seems to be performing the Chinna movement of the Kati

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.