This artwork presents a fragmented, sculptural form reminiscent of ancient shrines or temple niches. Its intricate carvings showcase figures, deities, and repeated iconographic motifs that evoke spiritual reverence and a connection to sacred art traditions.
The worn, textured surface conveys a sense of timelessness and history, suggesting both preservation and decay. The piece invites viewers to reflect on themes of faith, continuity, and the resilience of cultural heritage.
Its form and detail symbolize the endurance of spiritual and artistic narratives through time, emphasizing the artist’s exploration of historical and spiritual contexts in contemporary expression.
An integration of ancient Indian spirituality, this sculpture showcases the fusion of Hindu and Buddhist traditions. It depicts Hari-Hara, a deity representing the unified form of the Hindu gods Vishnu (Hari) and Shiva (Hara), symbolizing the concept “Oneness of all existence.”
Above the Hari-Hara figure are 90 figures of Buddha. The creation of these 90 figures is based on the well-known Buddhist scripture Dhammapada:
“gataddhino visokassa vippamuttassa sabbadhi | sabbaganthappahīṇassa pariḷāho na vijjati”
which means:
“The one who has reached the end of the path, free from sorrow and all attachments, is no longer consumed by the fires of desire.”
The concept of Hari-Hara, where it shows the two opposing forces — the Preserver and Destroyer — together, aligns with the Buddhist philosophy described in the Dhammapada verse, which talks about transcendence beyond worldly attachments and sufferings.
The Buddhist verse explains that “the one who has completed the journey is free from sorrow, desire, and all bonds.” This state of ultimate liberation parallels the symbolism of Hari-Hara, where two different deities merge into one, going beyond duality.
This sculpture is a part of the series “NATH” presenting Lord Rama in a powerful and contemplative form. Here, the artist captures Rama’s spiritual essence not through a depiction of his full figure, but through an expressive portrayal of his head and crown.
This face is placed on an elevated platform suggesting the waves of the sea, which is further accompanied by the visuals painted in the face of Rama. This serene face with archaic smile radiates the spiritual essence of Lord Rama, reflecting Rama’s values of righteousness, compassion, and unwavering obedience towards Dharma.
His weathered texture and earthy tones bestow a sense of antiquity, conveying the ageless charm of Rama’s story. The crown he is wearing is made with intricate details, which serves as a symbol of his regality and divine status.
The focus on his head rather than his entire figure invites viewers to contemplate Lord Rama’s traits of elegance and the intense wisdom he embodies.
