Lord Shiva represents the aspect of the Supreme Being (Brahman of the Upanishads) that continuously dissolves to recreate in the cyclic process of creation, preservation, dissolution and recreation of the universe. Sri Nataraja is the dancing form of Lord Shiva. The cosmic dance of Lord Shiva is called ‘Anandatandava’, meaning the Dance of Bliss, and symbolizes the cosmic cycles of creation and destruction, as well as the daily rhythm of birth and death. The dance is a pictorial allegory of the five principal manifestations of eternal energy –
1.Creation
2.Destruction
3.Preservation
4.Salvation
5.Illusion
The dance of Shiva also represents his five activities:
1.Shrishti (creation, evolution)
2.Sthiti (preservation, support)
3.Samhara (destruction, evolution)
4.Tirobhava (illusion)
5.Anugraha (release, emancipation, grace)
Sri Nataraja’s dance represents the endless cycle of birth and death. His third eye is symbolic of his omniscience, insight, and enlightenment. The circle of fire represents the cosmos and especially consciousness. The cobra around Sri Nataraja’s waist is kundalini shakthi, the soul-impelling cosmic power resident within all. Sri Nataraja is present at Parashakthi Temple Rajagopuram in both Urdava Thandavam and Shiva Thandavam which is unique in the world.
551 W Kennett, Pontiac, Michigan 48340
