Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
The 'Dakshinamurti' idol of Shiva depicts him in which form?
Solution & Analysis
Answer: A
Concept
In the South Indian iconographic tradition, Shiva is often depicted as the source of all knowledge, particularly in the form of Dakshinamurti.Explanation
'Dakshinamurti' literally means 'the one who faces south'. In this form, Shiva is the supreme teacher of Yoga, Jnana (wisdom), and Vina (music). He is typically shown sitting under a banyan tree, facing south, and teaching the four sages (Sanaka, Sanatana, Sanandana, and Sanatkumara).Logical Breakup
Logic 1: The idol is distinguished by the 'Chin Mudra' (gesture of consciousness) and the presence of the banyan tree.
Logic 2: While Shiva is also the 'Nataraja' (Dancer) or 'Mahayogi' (Meditator), 'Dakshinamurti' specifically refers to the pedagogical aspect of the deity.