The Gods Sing and Dance for Shiva and Parvati

Let's move to beautiful India!

In today's DailyArt, we see the gods Shiva (known as the "Destroyer" representing destruction for the sake of recreation and beneficial change) and his consort Parvati (revered as the benevolent, nurturing wife of Lord Shiva and the mother of Ganesha and Kartikeya), sitting together on a tiger skin, watching a group of dancers accompanied by celestial musicians. The procession of performers stretches so far that it disappears behind the surrounding trees.

Shiva, the great yogi, is recognizable by his ash-white skin, matted hair, serpent ornaments, and the third eye on his forehead. Yet here he appears not as a fearsome ascetic, but as a graceful prince enjoying a pastoral gathering. Although the exact text illustrated by the painting is unknown, the scene may represent the festivities celebrating Shiva’s acceptance of Parvati as his bride.

P.S. Parvati is associated with domesticity, fertility, and beauty. Here are several magnificent depictions of this Hindu goddess!