Ardhanarishvara, composite male-female figure of the Hindu god Shiva together with his consort Parvati. As seen in many Indian and Southeast Asian sculptures, the right (male) half of the figure is adorned with the traditional ornaments of Shiva. Introduction Ardhanarishvara, a unique and profound deity in Hinduism, represents the synthesis of masculine and feminine energies. This androgynous form of Shiva and Parvati embodies the concept of duality and unity, symbolizing the inseparability of the male and female principles. Ardhanarishvara holds a significant place in Hindu mythology, art, and spirituality, offering a deep philosophical insight into the nature of existence and the balance of opposites. The importance of ... Ardhanarishvara is a composite form of Hindu god Shiva, featuring both male and female aspects in an androgynous deity. It symbolizes the unity of opposites. Ardhanarishvara is a composite androgynous form of Shiva and his consort Parvati. This form is shown as a fusion of half-male and half- female forms, split down in the center. The right half is depicted as Shiva, while the left half shows the female form of Parvati. The very name Ardhanarishvara implies "the Lord who is half- woman ". This form of Shiva is also referred to as Ardhanarisha, Ardhanarinateshwara, Ardhayuvateeshwara, Ardhagaureeshwara, Gaureeshwara, Naranaari, Parangada and ...
