BHAKTI MALA

THE COSMIC TRACE - A visual journey into the Divine Movement of Sri Lord Shiva (Sri Nataraja)

This work is a humble tribute to the Ananda Tandava, the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva. Within the sacred walls of Sri Sivan Temple, Singapore, I found a divine geometry carved in stone-the 108 karanas of the Natya Shastra. Each statue captured in this compilation is more than a mere physical posture; it is a silent vibration of the universe and a testament to eternal grace.

My journey began as a simple observation but evolved into a spiritual quest to document the rhythmic flow of the Great Dancer, Sri Nataraja. These forms represent the duality of existence: creation and destruction, movement and stillness, the celestial and the earthly. By meticulously compiling these 108 depictions, I sought to bridge the gap between ancient tradition and our contemporary world.

The collection serves as a visual prayer and a preservation of heritage. It is intended for the devotee, the artist, and the seeker alike, offering a gateway into the profound symbolism of Lord Shiva's movement. As you witness these forms, I hope you feel the pulse of the cosmic rhythm that governs both the stars above and the breath within. May this record honor the craftmanship of the artisans who built our temples and the timeless wisdom that continues to guide our spirits.
In the frozen motion of these statues, may you find the path to inner peace. Let this be a reminder that the dance of Lord Shiva never truly ends; it resides forever in the heart of the one who stops to look.

"May these pages help you follow the cosmic trace of the Divine within yourself"

Maniyan