Manasara Series (I. A Dictionary of Hindu Architecture; II. Indian Architecture according to Manasara-Shilpashastra; III. Manasara on Architecture and Sculpture: Sanskrit Text; IV. Architecture of Manasara: Translation; V. Architecture of Manasara: Illustrations; VI. Hindu Architecture in India and Abroad; VII. An Encyclopaedia of Hindu Architecture) v2.c14.s47: Chapter LX: Riding Animals of the Gods: The Goose (Vāhana-vidhāne Haṁsa-lakshaṇa)
Mānasāra Series (I. A Dictionary of Hindu Architecture; II. Indian Architecture according to Mānasāra-Śilpaśāstra; III. Mānasāra on Architecture and Sculpture: Sanskrit Text; IV. Architecture of Mānasāra: Translation; V. Architecture of Mānasāra: Illustrations; VI. Hindu Architecture in India and Abroad; VII. An Encyclopaedia of Hindu Architecture) v2.c14.s47
- Language
- English
Chapter LX: Riding Animals of the Gods: The Goose (Vāhana-vidhāne Haṁsa-lakshaṇa)
v2.c14.s47.2
The chapter opens with the announcement that the *vāhanas* of the Triad (*Trimūrti*) will now be described. But only one of them, namely, the Goose (*haṁsa*), is described in this chapter, the other three, the Garuḍa, the Bull, and the Lion, being described in the next three chapters. In these four chapters, the term *vāhana* is used to designate the various animals and birds used by the gods and goddesses for riding.
v2.c14.s47.3
The goose is the *vāhana* of Brahmā. The limbs of the goose are said to be measured in the largest type of the *dvi-tāla* system. The details of this system are described minutely. The Goose is white all over, with red legs and golden beak.
v2.c14.s47.4
The chapter closes with the statement that rows of geese should be beautifully carved or painted in the temples of the gods and in the mansions of Brahmins and kings: they are figured on the entablature (*prastara*), on the upper part of the *uttara*, on the *kūṭa*, *nīḍa*, and *grīvā* (neck).