South-Indian Images of Gods and Goddesses c12.s2.42

c12.s2.42

Besides the Nāgas mentioned in the previous paragraph, there are other groups of demi-gods and demons largely depicted in Hindu temples, such as the Yakshas, Vidyādharas, Gandharvas, Apsarasas, Kinnaras and Rākshasas.² These are made to serve, generally, as chauri-bearers to the gods and are represented with a light body flying in the air. They have generally two hands, two eyes and the karandamakuta crown. The Mānasāra describes the Kinnaras as having the legs of a cock the middle part of their body being human and the face beaked like Garuda with spreading wings. They wear a crown on their heads and hold a vinā in their arms. A sketch from Rāmēsvaram illustrates a female Kinnarī (fig. 154). The origin and description of these groups of demi-gods are given by W. J. Wilkins in Chapter XI of his Hindu Mythology. Also, the figures of these in their various postures are beautifully illustrated in the rock sculptures known as “Arjuna’s Penance” at Mahābalipuram.