Elements of Hindu Iconography v3.c19.140

v3.c19.140

In Karavīra (the modern Kolhapura) there is a temple dedicated exclusively to Mahālakshmi : it is therefore a very famous place of pilgrimage. The Viśvakarma-śāstra describes separately the figure of Mahālakshmi as found in this temple. She is represented as a small girl wearing various ornaments and looking very handsome. In her lower right hand is a pātra (vessel), and in the upper right hand the gadā named kaumōdaki; in the lower left hand she holds a bilva fruit, and in the upper left hand the khēṭaka. On her head is a Linga, (See Pl. CXII). She has to be worshipped by those who are desirous of acquiring wealth.