Parel Relief, Hindu relief sculpture in Parel, India
The Parel Relief is a monolithic sculpture carved from white granite displaying seven different representations of the god Shiva. A central figure is surrounded by six additional forms in varying poses, each with carefully carved details.
This stone sculpture was created during the late Gupta period around the 5th century and represents an important example of that artistic era. It remained hidden underground for centuries until workers accidentally discovered it during construction in Parel in 1931.
The multiple forms of Shiva displayed here reflect how Hindu worship expresses the divine through different aspects and attributes. Visitors can observe these spiritual representations and how they connect to local religious practices.
The relief is housed within the Baradevi Temple compound and is normally protected behind screens. The best time to visit is during the nine-day Navaratri festival, when access is granted more freely.
Five musician figures or guardian beings are carved into the lower section of this relief, representing a rare artistic treatment from this period. This composition echoes similar works found in the Elephanta Caves, creating a link between two significant ancient sites.
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