Underground Shrine Queens Stepwell Patan

Author(s): Jaikishandas Sadani
Publisher: B J Institute of Learning & Research

Page 46

Gods and Goddesses
are eight miniature images four on each side. Thus along with the central image there are five images of Gaņeśa, popularly known as 'Pañca Gañesa' The Sakti of the main Ganesa is missing probably it must have been on the top torana or arch of the central Ganesa.
Gaņeśa with his consort is a very impressive panel in which he is seated in circular simhasana or the throne. In his four hands he holds an axe, his broken tusk, a lotus and the fourth hand is encircled around the waist of his beloved consort. He has beautiful ornaments on his body and the interesting ornament on his belly. Moreover, other ornaments, the necklace, the long garland, armlets, bracelets and ankets adorn his being. His face is surrounded by an orb of rays to denote his divinity. From behind a snake comes crawling over his stomach
His consort is seated on his lap. It is carved in a very graceful pose. In her left hand she holds a lotus of love while her right hand is shown fondling Gaņeśa's trunk, the part of which is broken. In the front of the deity is a casket full of laddus or sweets. His vāhana, the carrier mouse is feeding on the sweets. The vertical part on the right side has figures of Gaņeśa and a man. The central arch also has figures of Gaņeśa and the man may be his devotee.
There is another very important image of Gaņeśa with his two consorts Riddhi and Siddhi seated on his thighs. This is very beautifully chiselled.
Vişņu as Sūrya : Sürya is one of the names of Vişņu. In Rgveda similar Rcās are dedicated to him. Therefore, there is no difference between the two. They are interchangeable. It is precisely for this that Visnu is said to be the Eye of the universe.
Hence Queen's step-well has paid obeisance to Vişņu as Sūrya. There is a robust statue of Sun in an upright standing posture. He has the dignity and majesty which sheds radiance all around. Standing on a lotus pedestal he holds two large lotuses in both his hands which rise above his shoulders. Apart from royal ornaments, he wears breast-plate as an armour and a tall crown or Kiriţa. His long ear lobes are adorned by ear-rings. An orb surrounding his face radiates divinity. He has two protective high boots. All this suggests his being the protector and nourisher of mankind. It is precisely for this that Isa Upanişad call him "Pūsan". Lotuses have a very intimate relationship with the Sun. They bloom with sunlight, at dawn and wilt after sunset. Moreover, the lotuses are epitome of beauty, fragrance and love and at the same time they are the symbols of non-attachment in as much as they are born in water, live in water and are yet untouched by water. Thus they signify