Dravidian Iconography: Hindu Symbology from "summary" of All About Dravidas, Tamil Sangams, Kumari Kandam And Tolkappiyam by London Swaminathan
Dravidian Iconography is a fascinating topic which explores the Hindu symbolism used in South Indian art and culture. Through this subject, one can gain an understanding of the spiritual and religious aspects of the Dravidian culture.- Dravidian Iconography focuses on the Hindu symbology which is vital to understanding the ancient cultures of South India. It consists of various symbols, motifs and rituals found in religious scripture.
- The use of such symbols not only provided an aesthetic element but also played a critical role in conveying philosophical and theological teachings. To this day, we find these symbols being used around temples in South India for performing traditional ceremonies and offering worship.
- Ancient sculptures, mural paintings and temple architecture often employed these symbols to convey deep spiritual messages. Such symbols include animals, gods, humans and abstract designs with a variety of colors and patterns.
- Finally, Dravidian iconography teaches us how many of the religious symbols from South India are visual metaphors for life’s journey and remind humanity to pursue knowledge and spiritual development.
- Another prominent symbol seen is the Lingam, or a pillar made of jelly stone at the centre of temples. This represents the idea of the god Vishnu as being beyond gender; something which speaks volumes about gender equality in Hinduism.
- One example of symbolic representation is that of Nataraja or Lord Shiva as the Cosmic Dancer. Through this image, we learn about the importance of cosmic cycles of creation and dissolution while being purveyors of Purusha, or ‘supreme spirit’.
- Symbols can also represent divinity through figures depicted in human or animal form. Commonly seen images include Ganesh (the Elephant God., Murugan (the Turtle God. and Kali (the Cobra goddess..
