Udupi: Rare mythological sculptural lamp discovered at Perdur’s Ananthapadmanabha Temple

Udupi: Rare mythological sculptural lamp discovered at Perdur’s Ananthapadmanabha Temple

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, June 24, 2025: A rare and intricately carved sculptural lamp illustrating mythological themes has been unearthed at the historic Ananthapadmanabha Temple in Perdur, Udupi district. The discovery was announced through a press release by Prof T Murugeshi, retired associate professor of ancient history and archaeology and founding member of Aadima Kala Trust (R), Udupi.

The lamp, a remarkable blend of artistic finesse and religious symbolism, features a circular base and an elaborately sculpted arched plaque at the top. Flanking the plaque are carvings that represent both Shaiva and Vaishnava traditions, reflecting the temple’s rich spiritual legacy.

On the lamp’s first face, the central figure is Nataraja performing the cosmic Tandava dance over the demon Kalapurusha. Surrounding him are celestial attendants — a Gana playing a drum (nagari), another with cymbals (tala), and depictions of Khadgaravana seated atop a startled Mari, as well as Kumara riding a peacock. To the left of the drummer, carvings of Parvati on Nandi and Ganesha on his mouse vehicle complete the vivid tableau of divine energy.

The reverse face portrays Ananthapadmanabha in a balanced standing pose (samabhanga), with Indra and Brahma to his right and Agni and Varuna to his left. According to mythology, after witnessing Shiva’s fierce Tandava, the gods, alarmed, seek Vishnu’s help. Vishnu, appearing as Ananthapadmanabha, pacifies Shiva, restoring cosmic order.

In the sculpture, Vishnu is shown holding a water ladle (udarini) in both hands, standing over Garuda. Behind him, a serene image of Shiva is depicted in anjali mudra, a gesture of prayer and surrender. The presence of majestic lion carvings on either side of the lamp further enhances its visual grandeur.

An inscription within the temple premises, dated 1456 CE, records that a local chieftain, Basavannarsa Bangana, donated two bronze lamps to the temple. Based on this inscription and the stylistic elements of the sculpture, the lamp is believed to date back to the 15th century.

A striking aspect of the artifact is the depiction of Khadgaravana — a fierce guardian deity shown half-naked, seated on Mari’s shoulder with a startled expression. He holds a sword and plough in one set of hands, and in the other, a skull-cup and a severed head — powerful symbols of destruction and protection. Khadgaravana continues to be venerated as a guardian spirit in the temple’s outer precinct.

Prof Murugeshi extended his thanks to the temple’s hereditary trustee Pramod Rai Palaye, administrative officer Gururaj, the chief priest, the temple management committee, and the research team of Aadima Kala Trust for their cooperation and support in this significant discovery.