The Divine Balance

This design is a tribute to Santulan- the balance that exists within all creation. On the back is Ardhanarishvara, the sacred union of Shiva and Shakti, representing the harmony between masculine and feminine energies. Shiva's side is accompanied by the moon and flowing water, symbols of stillness, depth, and inner silence, while Shakti's side radiates through the sun and fire, embodying creation, passion, and transformative energy. At the throat rests a blue Yin Yang, inspired by Neelkanth Shiva's ability to hold poison without becoming poisoned- a reminder to remain balanced amidst chaos. Shiva's Damru signifies the rhythm through which harmony emerges, while the Taraju in Shakti's hand balances the heart and brain, symbolizing the wisdom of knowing when to feel deeply and when to think clearly.

On the front, Navagunjara roams a barren desert where roses bloom from cacti- a surreal coexistence of tenderness and thorns. In Odia Mahabharata, Krishna revealed the Navagunjara form before Arjuna to teach him that truth cannot be understood through appearances alone. Formed from nine beings- the rooster, peacock, bull, lion, elephant, serpent, deer, tiger, and human- it transcends all categories and reminds us that wholeness comes from integrating seemingly opposing forces within ourselves. Subtle golden zardozi on the lotus and necklace, thread embroidery on the roses, and beadwork on the cacti add depth and texture to the artwork, bringing this imagined world to life through craftsmanship.