Manifestations of Shiva Mahadeva: Form, Symbol and Iconography explores the concept and meaning of Shiva, tracing his evolution into Mahadeva through his cosmic roles of creation, preservation and dissolution, expressed through his Shanta, Anugraha and Samhara forms. As Panchanana, Shiva embodies the five basic elements – Jala, Akasha, Prithivi, Agni and Vayu – through forms such as Vamadeva, Ishana, Sadyojata, Aghora and Tatpurusha, magnificently represented at iconic sites such as Elephanta, Ellora and elsewhere. He is worshipped as the Great Teacher in the form of Dakshinamurti, as the supreme exponent of Yoga, Jnana and Sangita. As Natesha or Nataraja, Shiva embodies the very essence of dance, with the 108 dance forms described in Bharata Muni's Natyashastra finding eloquent expression in temple art.
Shiva's diverse manifestations – Pashupati, Vaidyanatha, Nilakantha, Mrityunjaya and Naganatha, among others – reflect his infinite nature and benevolence towards humanity. The linga-yoni-pitha symbolises the union of Purusha and Prakriti as Shiva and Shakti, embodying the principle of creation, as explained in the Linga Purana. This aniconic conception further evolved into iconic forms such as Umamaheshvara and the composite Ardhanarishvara. The divine marriage of Shiva and Parvati, represented in art as Kalyanasundara or Parvati-Parinaya, sanctifies marriage (vivaha) as an essential social institution.
Through textual and visual examples, the book presents a holistic and inclusive study of Shiva's multifaceted nature and forms, while highlighting their enduring relevance and universal appeal in the modern world.
