South-Indian Images of Gods and Goddesses c12.s2.48

c12.s2.48

Saints and Sages are also not infrequently figured in temples. The latter include the Vēdic rishis and the authors of the early sacred literature of the Hindus, represented as old men, serene and unmindful of mundane affairs. The sacred thread, braided hair, flowing beards and moustaches form the special features of rishi images. They are seated in a meditative posture with the rosary or book and the water-pot or staff in their hands. The seven famous sages Gautama, Bharadvāja, Visvāmitra, Kasyapa, Jamadagni, Vasistha and Atri are occasionally also represented with their wives, while Nārada, Agastya, Bhrigu, Angiras, etc., are surrounded by their disciples. Nārada (fig. 157) is distinguished from other sages by the vinā which he holds in his hands, being always engaged in singing the praises of Vishnu. In Purānas he is described as fond of setting up one against the other and creating quarrels. Hence in common parlance Nārada represents a tale-bearer. Agastya (fig. 158) is dwarfish in stature and pot-bellied.² He is supposed to have migrated from north to south and to have dwelt there permanently and developed the Tamil language of which he is said to be the first grammarian. Kapila, the founder of the Sānkhya system of Hindu philosophy, holds a water-pot on his lap and has in his two hands the conch and the discus.³ Dhanvantari, the presiding sage of the Indian Medical Science, is supposed to be a form of Vishnu and is found generally figured in company of the Asvins,¹ who are the physicians of the gods. He holds a pot of nectar in his hands.