Kamantakamurti of Shiva is associated with the famous
incident mentioned in the Puranas in which Shiva burns down Kama or Manmatha,
the god of love. After death of Sati, Shiva entered into severe penance and
this caused imbalance in the galaxy. Demon Taraka wrecked havoc in the universe
as he had got a boon that only a son of Shiva will annihilate him.
Since Shiva was performing intense austerities, Demon Taraka
knew that he will never father a son. Meanwhile, Goddess Shakti had appeared as
Parvati but Shiva showed no intention of returning to worldly life.
Devas then deputed Kama, the god of love, to create
lascivious thoughts in the mind of Shiva.
As Kamantakamurti, Shiva is sitting in meditating posture
and Kamadev is sculptured as having fallen down at the glance of Shiva.
The murti of Shiva has three eyes, four arms and his head is
covered with a jata mukuta. He has a terrific look. He carries akshamala and a snake in two hands.
One hand carries a flag and one hand is in Suchi Hasta posture.
The size of Manmatha in the murti should be one-half that of
Shiva. The complexion of Kamdev is yellow and he wears golden ornaments. He
also carries five flowery arrows and a bow made of sugarcane.
Shiva as Kamantakamurti is generally sculpted on walls of
temples. The murti is also found on the gopurams of South Indian temples.
Related
Story of the Rebirth of Kamdev
Related
Story of the Rebirth of Kamdev