In the Newari Hindu tradition of Nepal, Indra or Shaka is a powerful deity, embodying the qualities of royalty, auspiciousness, and fecundity as the god of rain. According to popular legends, Indra descended on the earth to collect a Parijat flower for his mother in the form of an ordinary human. In the act of plucking the flower, he was caught and imprisoned by Gardner. His elephant, Airavat, known as Pulu Kisi in Newar, came searching for Indra, and so did his mother. Finally, on the promise of bringing good crops and transporting the souls of his devotees to heaven, Indra was allowed to go back. In the celebration of his benevolence, Nepal annually celebrates Indra and Airavat’s devotion to him.
This brass statue from Nepal, depicting Indra seated on Airavat in a regal Maharajalilasana pose, reminds one of the many legends of the Lord of gods, Devaraja. Accompanied by a Mahawat (elephant rider), Indra exudes grandeur and divinity. Adorned beautifully with paraphernalia, Airavat has a pot of ambrosia on his head, symbolizing eternal life.
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