Dhanvantari, revered as the god of medicine and an incarnation of Vishnu, is depicted in various forms and postures in Hindu art and sculpture. Each of these depictions emphasizes different aspects of his divine role as the healer and preserver of health. Below are some of the prominent forms of Dhanvantari sculptures:
Two-Armed Form:
- Description: The most common form of Dhanvantari depicts him with two arms.
- Attributes: He holds the amritakalasha, the pot of ambrosia or nectar, symbolizing immortality and healing.
Four-Armed Form:
- Description: In this depiction, Dhanvantari has four arms, highlighting his divine nature.
- Attributes: Apart from the amritakalasha, he often holds symbols associated with Vishnu, such as the shankha (conch) and chakra (discus). These emblems connect Dhanvantari to Vishnu's role as the preserver in the Hindu Trinity (Trimurti).
Six-Armed Form:
- Description: This is a more elaborate representation, emphasizing Dhanvantari's multifaceted role in health and healing.
- Attributes: In addition to the usual shankha, chakra, and amrita kalasha, he may hold additional objects that signify his mastery over medical sciences and divine interventions.
Bathing with Amrita:
- Description: In this rare form, Dhanvantari is shown in the act of bathing himself with amrita (nectar), which he pours from the amrita kalasha.
- Symbolism: This depiction emphasizes the purifying and life-sustaining qualities of the nectar, reinforcing Dhanvantari's association with eternal health and vitality.
Leech-Holding Form:
- Description: One of the more unique and intriguing forms of Dhanvantari shows him holding a leech in one of his hands.
- Symbolism: The leech is indicative of bloodletting, a traditional medical practice. This form underscores Dhanvantari's connection to surgical procedures and treatments, highlighting his comprehensive knowledge of medicine, including Ayurveda.
Each of these forms reflects different aspects of
Dhanvantari's divine functions and his connection to health, healing, and
well-being. The diversity in his depictions also underscores the richness of
Hindu iconography and the multifaceted nature of divine figures within the
tradition.