Nataraja

The noblest creation of the artistic genius of South India is Siva Natararja which illustrates the process of world creation and destruction in the term of rhythmic dance. Encircled with a halo of flame the figure of Nataraja is holding a damaru by his upper right hand thereby bringing about creation. The upper left bears the allconsuming flame from which proceeds destruction. The lower right hand is in abhaya mudra (the gesture of protection) while the lower left in gajahasta pointing to the raised left foot which symbolizes deliverance. The right foot is trampling upon the dwarfish figure of evil personified, apasmara purusha.