TNSDA unearths 12th century Chola period bronze alloy idols of Nataraja and Sivagami
GS1History · Society · Geography· Art, architecture & culture· Prelims·
Chola bronze iconography and archaeological evidence: a key GS1 History and Culture topic.
Why in news
The Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology (TNSDA) unearthed 12th-century Chola period bronze alloy idols of Nataraja and Sivagami in Nagapattinam.
Background
The TNSDA discovered an 110 cm tall Nataraja in 'Ananda Tandava' posture and an 82 cm tall Sivagami in 'Tribhanga' posture at a depth of one metre. The idols, dating to the 12th century AD, were found with their respective pedestals in Nagapattinam.
Facts for Prelims
- PlaceNagapattinam: Site of the Chola period bronze alloy idol excavations.
- FactNataraja idol: 110 cm height and 100 cm width.
- FactSivagami idol: 82 cm height and 23 cm width.
- S&TAnanda Tandava: Posture of the Nataraja idol found.
- S&TTribhanga: Posture of the Sivagami idol found.
Prelims practice question
With reference to the Chola period bronze idols unearthed in Nagapattinam, consider the following statements:
- The Sivagami idol was found in the Tribhanga posture.
- The Nataraja idol was found in the Ananda Tandava posture.
- The idols date back to the 15th century AD.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)2 only
- (b)3 only
- (c)1 and 2 only
- (d)2 and 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 2 only — Statements 1 and 2 are correct. Statement 3 is incorrect: The idols date to the 12th century AD.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the significance of Chola period bronze sculptures in understanding the evolution of South Indian iconography and religious practices.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Iconographic evolution: Transition from ritualistic symbolism to sophisticated aesthetic proportions in Chola metalwork
- Historical continuity: Archaeological evidence of Nagapattinam as a major center for religious art and maritime trade
Keywords: Chola Dynasty · Iconography · Bronze Casting · Archaeological Evidence · Nagapattinam
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