The Inseparable Couple

Shiva is a great master of the art of dancing. The 'Shivaganas' mentions that Shiva danced in 108 modes. Parvati, consort of the great god Shiva is the very expression of femininity. Parvati's beauty inspired Shiva to create music and dance. From his melodious voice arose the musical notes that enchanted the entire cosmos. He created the various dance elements - gait, gestures, expression and posture - that best expressed human emotion.

In this batik work, we see the tandava of Shiva and lasya of Parvati. Together they formed the most graceful nritya movements Shiva is seen here in his ash-covered ascetic's body, wearing rudraksha beads for jewellery. Snakes drape around his body, oblivious of the vigorous dance movements. An oblong third eye rests on his forehead. Shiva's left leg is bent at the knee and the right one is raised high and then bent. He raises one hand above the head in a nrtta mudra and holds Parvati by the waist with the other arm. Parvati is dressed in an attractive attire and jewellery. Her hair is done up in a coiffure, decorated with flowers and ornaments. Her hands show actions in a graceful manner.

Shiva and Partavi's opposite hands are raised and their right legs being bent show a pictographic rhythm and unision of thought and action between the two who propagate togetherness.