A unique representation of Shiva, the cosmic dancer -Nataraja, in a one handed, hand stand. While the upright Nataraja representation is considered to be one of the defining symbols of Indian art, the upside down version expresses another facet of this deity.
According to Dr.Manoj Challam -"The upside down Siva represents Ultimate Freedom while embodied (Moksha Siva). This is represented by the mudra of the one hand going back. It is really a feeling of exhilaration that comes from an epiphany of a shift in identity. The wave has realized the oneness with the Ocean. The other hand holds the Damaru because time and space comes from us. Everything is Siva. An alchemical transformation of effortless Grace happens and the legs go upside down gracefully. There is no up, no down. Everything is Siva.
There is a crack on the robes of Siva. This represents the embodiment and human imperfection that Siva subjects us to. The Dance represents the Freedom and the Certainty upon realizing the Absolute.”
