Shiva dances Ananda Tandava—the Dance of Bliss—symbolizing the cosmic cycles of creation and dissolution, as well as the daily rhythm and harmony of life, of birth and death. The purpose of this dance, it is believed, is to release humankind from ignorance and the snare of illusion of the "self."

Encircled flames—consciousness, manifest universe; endless cycle of birth and death--prahabhamandala

Four arms representing cardinal directions (NSEW)

Snake stands for egotism.Unkempt hair—rejection of society

Shiva's stoic face represents his neutrality, thus being in balance.

Damaru—small hourglass-shaped drum representing sound originating creation—passage of time

Lower right hand shows ABHAYA MUNDRA, representing fearlessness—protection from both evil and ignorance

upper left hand holds a flame (agni), which signifies destruction, the dissolution of form.

On his head is a skull, symbolizing Shiva's conquest over death, and the goddess Ganga also sits on his hairdo. His third eye is symbolic of omniscience, insight and enlightenment.

The cobra around Nataraja's waist is kundalini shakti, or the divine force thought to reside within everything.

Apasmarapurusha, a soul temporarily Earth-bound by sloth, confusion and forgetfulness.

Shiva's right leg, representing obscuring grace, symbolizes his victory over ignorance. The uplifted left leg, by contrast, is revealing grace, which releases the mature soul from bondage.

Writing Prompt

Explain the function of symbolism in Hinduism Art (sculpture/architecture) and how it

demonstrates the core beliefs of the culture.

Instructions• To receive full points, you need to provide or

adhere to the following guidelines:– You must write in paragraph form (at least 4 with

an introduction, 2 supporting paragraphs, and a conclusion).

– Use complete and correct sentence structure and grammar.

– Provide direct details and examples to support your answer.

– Focus on the task provided.

Structure• Introduction (1)

– General statements of the topic, context, or beginning thoughts related to the task.

– Thesis statement: Defines your arguments and includes organizers for the two supporting paragraphs.

• Body Paragraphs (2)– Transition topic sentence related to the thesis– Details and direct evidence from the film that is relevant to your

topic– Explanation of those details, but not summary

• Conclusion (1)– Restatement of your argument– Concluding statements that emphasize the general importance of

the argument you are trying to make.