The book titled “The Power of the Female: Devangana
Sculptures on Indian Temple Architecture ” is written by Gauri Parimoo Krishnan,
curator with the Asian Civilisations Museum
in Singapore .
The main theme of the book is the celestial women sculptures
in Hindu temples in Central and Western India .
The sculptures are known as Devanganas, surasundaris and apsaras. The book is
based on the Phd thesis of the author.
The highlight of the book is more than 250 black and white
photos. Eight chapters explore all the important aspects of the celestial women
sculptures.
Times of India reports
Usually, most scholars make a token reference to the apsaras as decorative appendages and relegate them to be minor images of semi-divine nature, erotically charged and supposed to offer a titillating thrill when seen on the walls of temples. Puranic literature has also depicted them as alluring men, rishis, and gods from their path of righteousness and spirituality. "They have to be seen in relation to the whole monument, the directional deity they are flanking as well as the meaning they convey which may range from 'ascetic' to 'erotic' and 'creative' to 'emotive'."
For instance, the Svastana Sparsha, depicted as touching her own breast doesn't illustrate erotica, it could mean playfulness or even motherhood.
Book – The Power of the Female: Devangana Sculptures on
Indian Temple Architecture
Author – Dr. Gauri Parimoo Krishnan
Author – Dr. Gauri Parimoo Krishnan
Published by - D.K. Printworld, New Delhi
Price – Rupees 3648/- (in online stores)