Description

Ardhanarishwar, also spelled Ardhanarishvara, is a composite form of the Hindu deities Shiva and Parvati. This form is depicted as half male and half female, symbolizing the synthesis of masculine and feminine energies. The right side of the figure is often shown as Shiva, the male god, and the left side as Parvati, his consort. This representation emphasizes the concept of androgyny and the belief that the union of these two principles leads to balance and harmony in the universe. Ardhanarishwar is a significant icon in Hinduism, representing various philosophical and spiritual concepts, including the idea that the divine transcends gender distinctions and that male and female energies are essential and complementary to each other. The image often conveys deeper messages about unity, equality, and the interconnectedness of all existence.