Animals are a significant component of artistic and architectural traditions in India and usually depict mythical or divine attributes. Discuss with reference to the significance of tiger and elephant.
Introduction
Animals are a significant component of artistic & architectural traditions in India & usually depict mythical or divine attributes.
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Significance of 'tiger':
1. Indian mythology - vehicle of Goddess Durga, symbol of courage and assertive power.
2. Art - embodied in Chola bronzes - found in Pahari miniatures & tribal art (eg. Warli).
3. Temple architecture & sculpture - carved in temple friezes as 'protectors', often used in South Indian gopurams.
4. Symbolic continuance - folk rituals like Pulikali celebrate strength of tigers & place them as symbols.
Significance of elephants:
1. Indian mythology - Maya's dream ties elephant to Buddhist narratives & Jataka tales.
2. Indian art - central to Ajanta murals, feature in Mughal & Rajput paintings.
3. Temple architecture and sculptures - depicted as 'dwarpals' (guardians) in temples. Carved at Sanchi, Konark architecture.
4. Elephant motifs in Ashokan pillars, symbolised peace post Kalinga war period.
Conclusion
Tiger & elephant motifs embody not only spiritual philosophy but also depict deep seated human-animal symbiosis in Indian thought across time, cultures & religious ideologies.
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Disha Dhankhar
Art and Culture
Indian Art and Architecture
Animal Motifs in Indian Art
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