Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi

Udupi, June 24: A rare and intricately designed sculptural lamp depicting mythological narratives has been discovered at the historic Ananthapadmanabha Temple in Perdur, Udupi taluk. The finding was shared by Prof T Murugeshi, retired associate professor of ancient history and archaeology, and founding member of Aadima Kala Trust (R), Udupi, through a press note.

The lamp features a round base and an exquisitely carved arched plaque at the top. On either side of the plaque are carvings representing Shaiva and Vaishnava traditions, symbolising the temple’s unique spiritual heritage.

At the centre of the first face is a sculpture of Nataraja standing over Kalapurusha. Flanking him are Ganas — one playing a drum (nagari) and another playing cymbals (tala), along with depictions of Khadgaravana seated on the shoulder of a startled Mari and Kumara mounted on a peacock. To the left of the drummer, figures of Parvati on Nandi and Ganesha on a mouse vehicle are carved. Together, these vividly portray the cosmic dance of Shiva (Tandava) that shakes the three worlds.

The second face features Ananthapadmanabha in a graceful standing posture (samabhanga), flanked by Indra and Brahma on his right and Agni and Varuna on his left. According to legend, following Shiva’s fierce dance, the terrified deities approach Vishnu in Vaikuntha along with Brahma, pleading for relief. Vishnu, appearing as Ananthapadmanabha, pacifies Shiva.

The sculpture shows the deity holding an udarini (water ladle) in both hands, standing above a figure of Garuda, while behind, a serene image of Shiva is seen seated in anjali mudra, offering prayer.

On both sides of the lamp are majestic lion carvings, adding to its artistic richness.

Inside the temple premises, an inscription dated 1456 CE mentions that the local chieftain Basavannarsa Bangana donated two bronze lamps to the temple. Based on the stylistic features of the sculpture and this inscriptional evidence, the lamp is dated to the 15th century.

One of the most intriguing elements of the lamp is the sculpture of Khadgaravana — a fierce deity shown seated on Mari’s shoulder, half-naked and in a pose of astonishment. He holds a sword and plough in his right hands, a skull-cup or drinking vessel in his left front hand, and a severed head in his left rear hand. These features symbolise both protective and destructive forces. Interestingly, Khadgaravana is worshipped as a powerful guardian spirit in the temple’s outer precinct.

Prof Murugeshi expressed gratitude to the hereditary trustee of the temple, Pramod Rai Palaye, administrative officer Gururaj, chief priest, the entire temple management committee, and members of Aadima Kala Trust’s research team for their support in this rare discovery.