Uma Maheshvara, Beri

Description

This word refers to the two beings' names: Uma (another name for Parvati) and Maheshwara (another name for Shiva). It emphasizes the unified bond between Shiva and Parvati, underlining their roles as husband and wife, respectively. With their corresponding vahanas (vehicles), Shiva's bull and Parvati's lion, the deities are typically shown seated above a throne. His left hand holds his spouse, while his right hand holds a necklace of pearls. His equivalent side hands are holding a trident and a serpent, whose body encircles the god and his right arm. Parvati is holding a mirror in her left hand. Both have huge earrings, necklaces, double-stranded chains, and arm and leg jewelry. An openwork halo of rays surrounds Shiva's head. Below the two deities a Nandi and the emaciated Bhringhi, at the sides companion figures. Historians have highlighted that, aside from Shiva, no other male deity in early Indian iconography is shown with his spouse. Shiva and Parvati are often shown in the sammukha mudra (sitting face to face), but they are also shown in the serene position known as Lalitasana Mudra. However, they are also depicted in a number of stances that represent love and desire, such as the Alingana pose, in which they hug. In this sculpture, Shiva is shown holding Parvati in his lap or caressing her breasts in the Kuca sparsha mudra. In family situations, Kartikey and Ganesha may be seen with their parents. Vidyadharas are celestial creatures associated with wisdom and supernatural skills, whereas Gandharvas are celestial musicians. These celestial beings may appear as attendants or companions in some artistic renditions of Uma Maheshwara, adding to the scene's heavenly ambiance.