THE BHIKSANATA ŚIVA SCULPTURE OF THE DOIYANG–DHANSIRI VALLEY, ASSAM

Abstract [English]

This research article examines the Bhikshatana Śiva sculpture of the Doiyang–Dhansiri Valley as a fundamental element for comprehending regional creative innovation, religious practices, and trans-regional exchanges in early mediaeval Assam. The study contextualises the four-armed lotus-borne figure, found at the Deopani Śiva Temple in 2003, within the wider Śaiva traditions and local silpasāstra lineages through meticulous field documentation, stylistic analysis, and comparative iconography. The literary analysis of the Kurma purana, Vāmana purana, and Śiva Purāṇas elucidates the interpretation of the Bhikshatana form as Śiva’s Brahmahatti-atoning mendicant, while epigraphic and archaeological evidence from the 7th to 12th century CE contexts demonstrates enduring royal sponsorship and devotional networks. Essential discoveries underscore the sculpture's amalgamation of Gupta-influenced physiognomy with Eastern Indian early mediaeval themes and its distinctive compositional arrangement of attendant deities. A comparative analysis of South Indian Bhikshatanamūrti highlights regional differences in posture and decoration associated with Assam's trading connections to Southeast Asia and North India. The research article indicates that the Doiyang–Dhansiri Bhikshatana Śiva sculpture exemplifies localised artistic activity and signifies cultural connection, providing fresh insights into the interplay of art, commerce, and religious identity in the Brahmaputra valley periphery.