Shiva–Parvati Panel Depicting a Domestic Scene
Shiva–Parvati Panel — A Domestic Scene
Carved directly into the southeastern corner of the main hall of Cave 1, the Shiva–Parvati panel is unusual in that it appears to portray a more intimate and domestic aspect of Shiva and Parvati’s family life, unlike most of the other major reliefs in Cave 1, which depict specific mythological episodes.
The panel is heavily damaged, especially in the lower half. Shiva appears seated at the center, but his face is broken, and only the rear portion of his head and the halo behind it remain partially intact. In contrast, Parvati’s face and upper body are relatively well preserved.
Shiva is shown seated leisurely at the center, while Parvati sits to his left, slightly apart from him, attended by two female companions, each possibly carrying a child. According to the ASI plaque, these children may represent Kartikeya and Ganesha. Parvati’s expression appears affectionate yet somewhat displeased, and her face is turned slightly away from Shiva, perhaps suggesting a domestic interaction between the divine couple rather than a formal religious scene.
Above them are celestial beings, including flying Vidyadhara couples, yakshas, gandharvas, and rishis, all witnessing the scene. The large standing figure on the right is believed to represent Surya, the sun god, identified by the lotus flower held in his right hand.
The lower portion of the panel, now mostly damaged, likely once included Nandi and Shiva’s ganas (attendants).
Related Pages
– Badami
– Cave Temples of Badami
– Badami Cave 1, Badami Cave 2, Badami Cave 3, Badami Cave 4
– Durga Temple at Aihole
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