Discuss the significance of the lion and bull figures in Indian mythology, art, and architecture. (UPSC CSE Mains 2022 - General Studies Paper 1)
Bull
The significance of the bull as a symbol of fertility and strength was widespread in India as early as the Indus Valley Civilization (about 2000 BC), as well as in ancient Egypt, Greece and the Near East. There are many gods and goddesses in Hinduism.
Indian Mythology
- Nandikeshwara or Nandideva is the bull vahana of Lord Shiva.
- The bull is also a symbol of First Jain Tirthankara Adinatha.
- In Buddhism ‘Bull’ is related to the Janma (Birth).
Indian Art and Architecture
- Bull is seen painted in the prehistoric rock shelters- Bhimbetka.
- Prehistoric clay modelers are working out terracotta bulls.
- Several steatite seals and sealings with bull figures in Indus Valley.
- The bull appeared on the silver punch-marked coins, on copper cast coins in some Kusana emperors and of Skandagupta.
- Many Emblems of Indian history such as Rashtrakuta, and Pallavas contain Bull.
- Feature of Gavaksha: Gavaksha means bull’s or cow’s eye. Found in Lomash Rishi Caves and Barabar Caves. Early rock-cut chaitya halls use the same ogee shape for the main window needed to illuminate the interior, and often also have small relief window motifs as decoration.
- Bull Capital of Mauryan Empire: Rampurva Bull
Lion
Lions have been widely used in sculpture to provide a sense of majesty and awe, especially on public buildings. Lions were bold creatures and many ancient cities would have an abundance of lion sculptures to show strength in numbers as well.
Indian Mythology
- Narasimha- Avatar of Vishnu.
- Lions are also found in Buddhism symbolism. In Buddhism, lions are symbolic of the Bodhisattvas.
- Yali is a Hindu mythological creature portrayed with the head and body of a lion.
- Lion shown as vahana of Druga.
Indian Art and Architecture
- Pillars of Ashoka
- Used in painting throughout Indian history.
- Used in Numismatics such as Western Chalukayas.
The symbolism of animals is extremely important in Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist mythology. As a result, the value of animals and birds transcends their natural existence into the domain of the spiritual and reflected in architecture and arts. Animals are also revered in this country, therefore their importance in spiritual arts and Indian and tribal art forms is undeniable.
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