Varadamudra

Prince of Wales Museum Bombay si0089

Varadamudra is a specific gesture or mudra used in Hinduism and Buddhism that symbolizes the granting of boons or the fulfillment of wishes. This gesture is made with the arm pointing downwards, and the palm facing outward, with the fingers pointing downwards. The varadamudra is a powerful symbol in iconography and is often depicted in the statues and paintings of various deities, particularly those associated with wealth, prosperity, and generosity, such as Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth, and Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion in Mahayana Buddhism.

Origins and Symbolism

The origins of varadamudra can be traced back to ancient Hindu texts and artworks, where deities are shown making this gesture as a sign of granting wishes and blessings to their devotees. The gesture is seen as an embodiment of the divine power to bestow grace upon humanity. In Buddhism, the varadamudra is often associated with the concept of compassion and the bodhisattva's vow to help sentient beings achieve enlightenment.

Iconography

In Hindu iconography, the varadamudra is commonly associated with Lakshmi, who is often depicted with her right hand in the varadamudra, signifying her role as a bestower of wealth and prosperity. Similarly, in Buddhist iconography, figures like Avalokiteshvara are shown with one hand in the varadamudra, emphasizing their role in granting the wishes of the faithful and aiding them on their path to enlightenment.

Cultural Significance

The varadamudra holds significant cultural importance in both Hinduism and Buddhism, symbolizing the benevolent and compassionate nature of the deities. It serves as a reminder of the divine support available to devotees and the power of faith and devotion to invoke blessings. The gesture is also a representation of the interconnectedness of the divine and the worldly, highlighting the belief in the accessibility of divine grace.

Practice and Usage

In addition to its presence in art and iconography, the varadamudra is also used in various rituals and meditation practices. Practitioners may adopt this mudra during meditation to invoke feelings of generosity, compassion, and the readiness to receive blessings. It is believed that embodying the essence of the varadamudra can help cultivate these qualities within oneself, fostering a spirit of giving and openness.

Conclusion

The varadamudra is a profound symbol in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, encapsulating themes of generosity, compassion, and the fulfillment of wishes. Its widespread depiction in art and its use in spiritual practices underscore its enduring significance as a bridge between the divine and the human, offering a tangible means through which devotees can connect with the benevolent aspects of the divine.