Original artwork description:

This Painting depicts the moment when Lord Shiva picks up Sati's burning body and is about to get into that furious state in which he began to perform a cosmic dance known as the Tandava. The full story can be read as below -

The story of Shiv and Sati is a well-known tale in Hindu mythology. According to the myth, Sati was the daughter of King Daksha, who did not approve of his daughter's marriage to Lord Shiva, one of the most powerful and revered gods in the Hindu pantheon. Despite Daksha's disapproval, Sati and Shiva were deeply in love and got married.

However, one day, Daksha decided to hold a grand yagna (a ritual sacrifice) and invited all the gods and goddesses except for Shiva and Sati. Sati was deeply hurt and humiliated by her father's actions and decided to attend the yagna without an invitation. When she arrived, Daksha insulted her and Shiva, which caused Sati to become extremely angry and upset.

In her rage, Sati invoked her yogic powers and immolated herself on the spot as a form of protest against her father's behavior. When Lord Shiva learned of Sati's death, he became furious and grief-stricken. He picked up her body and began to perform a cosmic dance known as the Tandava, which threatened to destroy the entire universe.

To calm Shiva down and prevent the destruction of the universe, Lord Vishnu used his powers to cut Sati's body into 51 pieces, which fell to earth as sacred places of worship known as Shakti Peethas. Lord Shiva eventually overcame his grief and anger, and the story of Shiv and Sati has since become a symbol of true love and devotion in Hindu mythology.

Materials used:

Oil

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