Скачать или смотреть “Lecture 29 🏛️🛕 Dravidian Architecture Development Explained | Full Features of NATARAJA sculptures

#upsc2025 #upscpreparation #upscpolity #upscprelims #upsccurrentaffairs #upscprelims2025 #ancientindia #artandculture #iaspreparation #upsc Though the earliest known Nataraja sculpture has been excavated at the Ravana Phadi cave temple at Aihole (Karnataka)—dating to the early Chalukya period (6th century CE)—
👉 the concept and artistic perfection of Nataraja reached its zenith under the Cholas (9th–13th centuries CE).

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Analytical Explanation (UPSC Depth):
1. Early Chalukya Phase (6th–8th Century CE):
• The Ravana Phadi sculpture at Aihole is one of the earliest depictions of Shiva as Nataraja, carved in bas-relief on rock.
• It shows stylistic experimentation — static posture, limited rhythmic motion, and primitive symbolic representation.
• Reflects early Shaivite influence but lacks the fluid dynamism and iconographic completeness seen later.
2. Chola Phase (9th–13th Century CE):
• Under Rajaraja I and Rajendra I, the bronze Nataraja reached an unparalleled level of sophistication, blending art, religion, and philosophy.
• Chola Nataraja became an embodiment of cosmic rhythm, spiritual liberation, and Bhakti devotion.
• Use of lost-wax casting (Cire perdue) made the figures fluid, symmetrical, and alive — symbolizing energy in motion.
3. Philosophical Depth:
• Represents Pancha Krityas (Five Acts of Shiva):
Srishti (creation), Sthiti (preservation), Samhara (destruction), Tirobhava (illusion), Anugraha (liberation).
• The Chola artists transformed a religious image into a metaphysical statement — merging art with Advaita philosophy.

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UPSC-Style Fact Summary:

Aspect Early Chalukya (Aihole) Chola (Tamil Nadu)
Period 6th century CE 10th–13th centuries CE
Material Rock relief Bronze (lost-wax)
Nature Experimental, static Dynamic, refined
Symbolism Basic Shaivism Complete cosmic philosophy
Artistic Value Proto-form Pinnacle of Indian bronze art


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Would you like me to frame one advanced UPSC prelims MCQ comparing Early Chalukya vs Chola Nataraja with tricky options (like in Vajiram & Ravi/Drishti IAS style)?