Nataraja: The Cosmic Dance of Shiva and Its Meaning

The Nataraja, Shiva as the Lord of the Dance, is one of the most admired forms in Indian art. It is also one of the most carefully designed: nearly every detail is a teaching.

Reading the image

The ring of flames (prabha mandala): the cycle of the universe, in which everything is created and dissolved.

The drum (damaru) in one hand: the sound of creation.

The flame in another hand: destruction, the clearing that precedes renewal.

The raised hand (abhaya): the promise of fearlessness and protection.

The foot on a small figure: the dwarf Apasmara, who stands for ignorance and ego. Shiva dances upon him, showing that the ego must be overcome.

The lifted foot: release, the path open to those who seek it.

A dance of balance

The Nataraja holds creation and destruction in one pose, and calm in the middle of it. It teaches that change is not the enemy of peace; they are held together.