2023 · Q55
Consider the following statements with reference to the Nataraj bronze sculpture of Chola period:
- 1Shiva is shown balancing himself on his right leg representing tirobhava.
- 2Shiva is shown raising his left leg in bhujangatrasita stance, representing kicking away the illusion from the devotee's mind.
- 3The main right hand holds the damaru, Shiva's favourite musical instrument.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
General KnowledgeHistory of India
- A1 only
- B2 only
- C2 and 3 only
- D1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Statement 1 is incorrect: the right leg planted on the dwarf Apasmara represents the suppression of ignorance and forgetfulness, not tirobhava (concealment). Statement 2 is correct: the raised left leg in the bhujangatrasita stance signifies the lifting of maya/illusion from the devotee's mind (grace). Statement 3 is incorrect: the damaru is held in the upper right hand, while the main (lower) right hand is in abhaya mudra. Hence only statement 2 is correct. (Cross-checked against testbook's solved page for this paper; an oswaal solved paper instead marks all three correct.)