Simhanada Avalokiteshvara (The Lord with the Voice of a Lion)

Simhanada Avalokiteshvara is a non-Tantra form of Avalokiteshvara invoked to cure leprosy. The epithet 'Simhanada' means 'with the voice of a lion,' and is also applied to both Shakyamuni and Manjushri. Some scholars are of the opinion that it may have a reference to an ancient legend in which the roaring of a lion was believed to awaken still-born babies to life.

The Avalokiteshvara here is seated sideways on a lion with coiled flames for his mane. The beast has a tamed, whimsical expression and golden wings sprout from just below his neck. Both the deity and the lion are supported on a lotus pedestal.

The right leg of Avalokiteshvara is pendant and his two hands make the Dharmachakra mudra. He is wearing a five-crested crown and bedecked in the splendor of rich ornaments. Entwined in his hair knots can be seen many golden jewels. He has a prominent ushnisha (cranial protuberance) and urna (the sacred mark at the center of the forehead). Elaborate kundalas (heavy earrings) hang on his ears terminating on his shoulders.

Avalokiteshvara's eyes are framed by heavily arched eyebrows and in a gesture of humility are bent slightly downwards. The aquiline nose is prominent and the rich red lips sensuously feminine in character. Sprouting from his two armbands are two lotus buds, indicating that he is the Padampani (bearer of the lotus) Avalokiteshvara.

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