The form of Shiva as Nataraja (“The Lord of the Dance”) is a multivalent image, meaning there are multiple meanings, interpretations, values, and applications. Nataraja is depicted in this structure in a triple role of creator, preserver, and destroyer. The various roles captured within the Nataraja image are contributing factors to the multiple applications and interpretations that can be envisioned for this single formation. Located within the work of Padma Kaimal entitled “Shiva Nataraja: Shifting Meanings of an Icon” is an interpretation penned by Ananda Coomaraswamy. He states “that the fire in one of Nataraja’s hands signifies cosmic destruction while the drum in his opposite hand beats the rhythm of creation. The open palm offers protection” (Kaimal 1999, p.393). The open palm of protection would signify Nataraja as preserver. Nataraja is continued to be revealed as preserver when we examine his planted foot which offers shelter to the soul (Kaimal 1999, p.393). The dwarf that Shiva as Nataraja crushes underfoot personifies the ignorance Shiva dispels (Kaimal 1999, p.394). The act of dispelling ignorance would evoke the destroying qualities of Shiva as Nataraja while also lending to the creative side of Nataraja. As the ignorance is being destroyed the enlightenment is being created by the creator side of Shiva. His revolving form demonstrates the cyclical pattern of time.
Prior to the tenth century, Kaimal tells us that the Nataraja likely had associations with death, cremation, and the destructive part of the cosmic cycle (Kaimal 1999, p.401). For example, the images of Nataraja in Elephanta depict skulls joined with other human bones in long garlands (Kaimal 1999, p.401). The elaborate halo of fire surrounding Nataraja is traced to the center Nataraja’s hip region. The radiating force expanding from Nataraja’s core gleams with cosmic energy. Kaimal interprets the ring of fire or halo of fire as, “the centrifugal force with which these shapes reach outward could have suggested the energy of geographic expansionism” (Kaimal 1999, p.413). Kaimal goes on to compare the radial symbols in the image of Nataraja to the Chola kings desire to be the center and source of life within vast geographic areas.
Kaimal, Padma. “Shiva Nataraja: Shifting Meanings of an Icon.” The Art Bulletin 81, no. 3 (1999): 390-419.
Art of South Asia Project 
By letting the reader know that the image of the form of Shiva as Nataraja can have many meanings and interpretations I thought that was a great heads up. Identifying which form of Shiva is in is also a great advantage of having the reader understand the avatars and why they are in such form. I also like how you take apart the action scenes in the image and describe its symbolism behind every movement. Giving an example of how Shiva is the preserver, destroyer, and creator is a great way to prove that he is what he symbolizes. For example, you describing the scene of ignorance being destroyed and enlightenment is being created. Overall this is a very well written summary.
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