Ardhanarishvara
अर्धनारीश्वर
The Lord Who is Half Woman
A composite androgynous form of the Hindu god Shiva and his consort Parvati, representing the synthesis of masculine and feminine energies of the universe. The form is depicted as half-male and half-female, split vertically, symbolizing the inseparable nature of Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (nature).
The Lord Who is Half Woman
Contemplating Ardhanarishvara helps transcend duality and understand the unified nature of existence. The form inspires inner balance of masculine and feminine qualities and is meditated upon for spiritual integration.
Influential in Indian art, sculpture, dance (particularly Bharatanatyam), and temple architecture, representing divine aesthetics and cosmic balance.
Represents the inseparable union of Shiva (Purusha) and Shakti (Prakriti). It signifies that the ultimate reality is a balance and synthesis of opposites, beyond all duality.
Body Division
Attributes Male
Attributes Female
Mount
Pose
- Illustrates the concept of Ardhatva (completeness through union)
- Symbolizes the inseparability of Shiva and Shakti
- Represents cosmic duality and harmony
- Seen in non-dualistic schools like Shaivism and Shakta traditions
Ardhanareeswarar Temple
Tiruchengode, Tamil Nadu, India
One of the most important temples dedicated to Ardhanarishvara
Elephanta Caves
Maharashtra, India
Renowned rock-cut sculpture of Ardhanarishvara
Festival: Shivaratri
Associated Practices:
- Worshipped for harmony in relationships and balance of energies
- Common in tantric worship and yogic meditations