Rare discovery: A 15th-century antique lamp with unique Shaiva and Vaishnava carvings found in Anantapadmanabha Temple, Perduru, Udupi district, Karnataka.
Epigraphical evidence: A stone inscription (1456 CE) confirms the lamp was donated by Basavannaras Banga, validating its historical authenticity.
Expert validation: T. Murugeshi, historian and archaeologist, confirmed its dual-cultic representation and narrative significance.

Shaiva side: Features Lord Shiva as Nataraja, with Parvati, Ganapati, Kumara, and Bringi, depicting the Pralaya Tandava.
Narrative style: Sculptures show Shiva’s destructive dance, accompanied by divine characters like Khadga Ravana and Goddess Mari.
Vaishnava side: Shows Anantapadmanabha, Brahma, Indra, Agni, and Varuna — narrating gods seeking Shiva’s pacification.

Divine mediation: The lamp narrates how gods appealed to Anantapadmanabha to calm Lord Shiva’s fury, ensuring cosmic balance.
Unique depiction: Central Garuda stands at the base; behind him, Shiva appears peaceful and folded in Anjali mudra.
Artistic integration: Combines Shaiva-Vaishnava beliefs, symbolizing religious harmony and ritual continuity in temple traditions.

● Definition: Study of symbolic representation of deities and stories in temple structures and objects.

● Key features: Use of Puranic narratives, mudras, vahanas, and postures to convey spiritual ideas.

●Regional styles: Vary across India — Dravidian (South), Nagara (North), and Vesara (Deccan) styles dominate.

● Purpose: Serve as educational, ritualistic, and aesthetic elements, reinforcing Bhakti traditions and mythology.

●Relevance: Preserves cultural heritage, enhances understanding of religious syncretism, and supports archaeological research.

What's New

15TH-CENTURY LAMP DISCOVERED IN KARNATAKA TEMPLE