In the Tamil Shaiva tradition, Uma-Parvati, the beloved of Lord Shiva is evoked as the energy that empowers Shiva, her presence is what makes Mahadeva Shiva auspicious for his devotees. This belief in the inseparability of Shiva and Shakti manifests itself in a rich profusion of Panchaloha Uma bronzes which depict the mother goddess as Palli Arai Devi or the goddess of the Bedchamber (of Shiva).
These Uma bronze icons are sparsely adorned yet represent one of the most enchanting forms of the great Hindu goddess, who is endearingly called- “Bhogashakti”- the goddess (Shakti) who is the sole cause of Shiva’s pleasure (Bhoga). Uma Parvati in this Panchaloha bronze is placed on a two-tiered platform, with its lower square portion patterned with incised lotus leaves and her throne formed like an upturned lotus.
Devi Parvati sits regally in the Lalitasana (posture of royal ease), her left foot pendant and the right one adorned with a Nupur (anklet) positioned on her floral seat. Uma’s exquisite is emphasized with an elongated Kiritamukuta which has pairs of Makara (a mythical creature that represents royalty and beauty) etched on its surface. The Makara motif is repeated on the mother goddess’s Makara kundala (earrings) and Bajubanda (armband).
The remaining ornamentation of Uma Parvati is tastefully simple along with a thick Yajnopavita (sacred thread) that runs diagonally on Devi’s bare torso and a Mekhala consisting of various beaded chains clasping her fine dhoti (lower body garment). A solar disc like Siraschakra (ornament behind the crown) draws attention to the beauty of Uma’s mukhamandala (visage) which is animated by lengthened eyes, sharp nose, and rivetingly smiling lips.
Devi’s left hand on the lotus throne supports the weight of her lithesome body and her right hand is in the Katakhasta mudra- a gesture for holding a flower. Hints of green patina on the Panchaloha Uma bronze statue give it an aesthetic appearance, giving you a museum-quality icon.
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