In the world of Tanjore paintings, the portraits of Perumal and Thayar are like a divine force framed in gold and color. Perumal, the cosmic caretaker, and Thayar, the gentle embodiment of prosperity, seem to live in this art. Eternal and ever-watchful, these figures, with their serene faces and celestial auras, aren’t just decorations. They are doorways to devotion. People seek them for the protection, prosperity, and divine blessings they bestow on their devotees.
Table of Contents
What is the Symbolism Seen in Perumal Thayar Tanjore Paintings?
Symbolism Associated with Perumal or Lord Vishnu
Symbolism Associated with Thayar (Goddess Lakshmi)
What is the Symbolism Seen in Perumal Thayar Tanjore Paintings?
While Perumal and Thayar's Tanjore paintings are visually appealing, they also contain symbolic elements that represent their divine qualities. These lively pieces of art that embody the presence of Perumal and Thayar act as a connection between the devotee and the divine.
Halos (Prabha Mandala): Typically, both Perumal and Thayar are shown with bright halos behind their heads, representing their divine essence. The halos signify their divine status by emanating purity, wisdom, and everlasting strength.
Lotus Flowers: A common symbol in these paintings is the lotus, frequently held by Thayar or placed by their feet. For Thayar, it represents her position as the Goddess of prosperity. For Perumal, it is a representation of spiritual enlightenment and detachment from material desires.
Gold Leaf Work: The Tanjore painters use gold leaf to symbolize the ultimate divinity and wealth connected with Perumal and Thayar. Gold is a metal highly valued, and it enhances the painting’s spiritual presence, mirroring the majesty of deities.
Celestial Adornments and Jewels: Artists drape Perumal and Thayar in resplendent ornaments in Tanjore paintings to radiate divine opulence. Each jewel embodies wisdom, compassion, and the protection that Perumal and Thayar bestow upon their devoted followers.
Holy Mounts: Artists often depict Garuda, Vishnu’s majestic mount, and the serpent Adisesha in Tanjore Perumal paintings. These embellishments symbolize strength, protection, and a divine energy that charges the cosmic battles.
Thus Perumal Thayar Tanjore paintings go beyond mere art by utilizing symbols to depict visual forms of worship. They aim to inspire a spiritual connection between devotees and the deities, Perumal and Thayar.
Symbolism Associated with Perumal or Lord Vishnu
Shankha (Conch): Perumal's conch represents the cleansing primordial sound "Om," symbolizing the beginning of the universe. It symbolizes innocence and a sense of duty to help others.
Chakra (Discus): The discus or Sudarshana Chakra symbolizes triumph over malevolence and safeguarding of dharma, the ethical path.
Mace: Known as Kaumodaki, the gada symbolizes Vishnu's might and authority. It represents divine power and shows the capacity to shield followers and bring back harmony to the world.
Padma (Lotus): In numerous artworks, Perumal carries a lotus blossom. It represents purity, spiritual enlightenment, and independence from worldly matters.
Symbolism Associated with Thayar (Goddess Lakshmi)
Padma (Lotus): Artists frequently depict Thayar holding a lotus in either one or both hands. It represents purity, beauty, fertility, and spiritual development. The lotus is the hands of the Goddess indicates that her blessings result in both spiritual and material wealth.
Varada Mudra: This mudra appears in a number of Tanjore paintings. Here, the artists depict Thayar's hands in the gesture of granting boons or blessings.
The Abhaya Mudra: This is a mudra associated with Thayar. It shows her palm facing outward, representing protection and reassurance as the caring guardian of her followers.
These items and movements symbolize Perumal and Thayar's sacred duties: Perumal is the defender and supporter of the cosmos, and Thayar is the bestower of riches, success, and benevolence. United, they create a harmonious blend of universal strength and empathy, frequently showcased in the magnificence of Tanjore artwork.
Where Should I Hang My Perumal Tanjore Paintings?
Perumal artwork, similar to other spiritual and religious pieces, should be positioned in areas in the house that encourage feelings of respect, positivity, and calmness. Here are some perfect locations to display Perumal artwork:
1. Pooja Room or Altar
The ideal location to hang a Perumal Tanjore painting is in the pooja room or altar. This is the place where prayers and spiritual ceremonies happen and having the painting here enhances the spiritual connection during worship. Make sure to place the painting at a height where it can be easily seen during prayer.
2. Living Room
Displaying a Perumal artwork in the living area can attract divine blessings and positive energy into the house. It helps you to also generate a calm and inviting environment for visitors.
3. Meditation or Study Room
A Perumal Tanjore painting can be placed in a meditation space or workplace to enhance peace, concentration, and spiritual clarity. This position promotes focus and awareness.
Things to Consider:
- Make sure to always hang the painting on a wall that is clean and undisturbed.
- Ensure the area surrounding the painting remains tidy and free of any unnecessary items to preserve its sacredness.
- Do not place the painting in places that are disrespectful, such as bathrooms or near shoe racks.
FAQs
1. Can Tanjore Paintings be gifted?
Perumal Tanjore paintings make ideal presents for important occasions. They can be gifted to loved ones at housewarmings, weddings, religious festivities, and baby showers. They symbolize protection, wealth, and peace. Their spiritual significance and cultural value, along with blessings, amplify the meaning of giving them as gifts at personal and corporate events.
2. What is the color palette used in Perumal Tanjore paintings?
Perumal Tanjore paintings often incorporate a balanced combination of calming blues, dazzling golds, and soft pastel colors in their color schemes. Because of the gold leaf decorations, these artworks are visually impressive.
3. Are Lord Balaji Tanjore paintings the same as Perumal Tanjore paintings?
Yes, Lord Balaji Tanjore paintings and Perumal Tanjore paintings are both representative of Lord Vishnu. It is just a matter of how people of different regions relate to them. The people from Tamil Nadu commonly use the term "Perumal" when referring to God Vishnu. "Balaji" or "Venkateswara" is the primary deity in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh and the term commonly used for Lord Vishnu in those areas.
Conclusion
The Perumal Thayar Tanjore paintings along with being exquisite artworks also convey spiritual and emotional meanings. Every brushstroke is symbolic of safeguarding, wealth, and unity. The paintings of Lord Vishnu (Perumal) and Goddess Lakshmi (Thayar) have a divine aura and are associated with peace, wisdom, and prosperity. Devotees buy embossed Balaji Thayar Tanjore paintings for the spiritual fulfillment they bring to the home.
Mangala Tanjore Paintings is the ideal place for those in search of beautiful Perumal Thayar Tanjore paintings or impressive embossed Balaji Thayar Tanjore paintings. Their creations beautifully capture divine elegance with a rich collection of intricate designs and vibrant colors. Discover Mangala Tanjore Paintings for classic artwork that adds a spiritual touch to any environment.
