Lord Vishnu on Sheshnag

Lord Vishnu on Sheshnag

Cave No 3., Badam, Chalukya Dynasty,6th Century CE

        This sculpture of Lord Vishnu is considered the masterpiece of the Badami caves.  It is a highly unusual sculpture.  For, generally Lord Vishnu is depicted as sleeping on the Serpant Sheshnag.  But rarely shown as sitting on him. Generally Goddess Lakshmi is shown as massaging Lord Vishnu 's feet; Garuda, His vehicle, is usually shown in half human form and standing in His attendance. But here the small figure of Goddess Lakshmi sits casually, leaning against the coils of the Serpant on the right hand side.  Even Garuda is in a relaxed mood on the left side. Even Lord Vishnu does not sit in a "regal" pose.  Even He sits casually as though freely conversing with the devotee. There is an unusual informality in the divine group. 

       Perhaps God is portrayed not as an impersonal god, but as a personal one.  Unlike Judaism where God is a distant object of veneration, in Hinduism, He is a personal God: intimate, friendly, confidante. 

       But perhaps this sculpture is a political commentary and a warning. The Chalukyan Kingdom had reached its zenith. Now the King and the subject could relax. The guardians could take it easy. But too much relaxation, too much carelessness can be dangerous. For, when Lord Vishnu falls asleep on the Sheshnag, two demons arise from Him and attack Him. Thus, this sculpture is a warning to the people to be ever vigilant, lest the Pallavas attack again. 

      A nation cannot afford to relax. For there are endless troubles on the horizon.  Every citizen must contribute to the development of the country.  Be vigilant, be safe.