Page "Elephanta Caves" Paragraph 55

The niche image carved on the south wall is an ensemble of divinities assembled around the central figures of Shiva and Parvati shown getting married.

Parvati is seen standing to Shiva's right, the ordained place for a Hindu bride at the wedding.

The carvings are damaged substantially ; only one of Shiva ’ s four hands is fully seen and the right leg is missing.

Shiva has a head dress with a shining disc attached to it.

His garments are well-draped, and well-tied at the waist.

The sacred thread is seen across his chest.

Parvati is carved as a perfect figure with coiffured hair dress, well adorned with jewellery and is draped tightly to display depressions below the waist only.

She is seen with a coy expression and is led by her father who has his right hand on her shoulder.

Even though both her hands are damaged, it is inferred that her left hand clasped Shiva ’ s right hand as a mark of holy alliance.

Brahma is sitting as the officiating priest for the marriage.

Vishnu is witness to the marriage.

Mena, the mother of Parvati is seen standing next to Vishnu.

The moon-god Chandra, seen with a wig and a crescent, is standing behind Parvati holding a circular pot with nectar for the marriage ceremony.

Just above the main images, a galaxy of divinities, bearded sages, apsaras ( nymphs ), Vidyadharas, Yakshis, Gandharvas, Bhringi, and other male and female attendants are seen as witness to the marriage ceremony showering flowers on the divine couple.