Goa: A unique and historically significant sculpture of Gajalakshmi was discovered accidentally in the Valvanti River near Parye in Sattari Taluk, Goa. The find, brought to attention by Dr Rajendra Kerkar, president of the Adima Kala Trust (R.), Udupi, has been hailed as a rare masterpiece from the Kadamba period.

Discovery and preservation

The sculpture was noticed in the river and carefully preserved by Dr Kerkar, who subsequently informed Prof T. Murugeshi, founder trustee of the Adima Kala Trust (R.), Udupi. According to Prof Murugeshi, the sculpture portrays Gajalakshmi seated on a lotus pedestal with a calm, divine expression and four hands.

The deity’s lower right hand shows Abhaya mudra (gesture of protection), while the lower left hand is in Varada mudra (gesture of blessing). She holds lotus buds in her upper hands, symbolising purity and prosperity. The figure is adorned with a lower garment, Makarakundalas in the ears, and a three-tiered Karanda Mukuta or crown with a canopy.

An oval-shaped Prabhavali frames the image, featuring a lion (Simha) at the center of the lalata, flanked by two elephants carrying sacred kalashas on either side. Notably, the pedestal also includes a depiction of the Gandaberunda, a mythical two-headed bird emblematic of royal lineages in South India, particularly associated with the Kadambas, Vijayanagara Empire, and Wodeyars of Mysore, and presently the state emblem of Karnataka.

The sculpture measures approximately 50 cm in length and 61 cm in width, making it a prominent artifact of its era.

Historical and cultural significance

Prof Murugeshi highlighted that the sculpture dates back to the 10th century A.D. and represents one of the finest examples of Kadamba art in Goa. While several Gajalakshmi panels exist in sacred forests and temple precincts across Goa, many depict tribal forms of Lakshmi or war scenes. This particular sculpture, however, represents the greater tradition of the Vaishnava cult, showcasing refined artistry and spiritual symbolism.

The Gandaberunda motif at the center of the pedestal underscores the royal and cultural heritage of the Kadambas in Goa. Its discovery provides scholars and historians with valuable insights into the artistic and religious traditions of the region during the early medieval period.

Appreciation and study

Prof Murugeshi expressed gratitude to Dr Rajendra Kerkar and his team for their meticulous work in preserving and studying the sculpture. He emphasised that this finding enriches Goa’s historical narrative, offering a rare glimpse into the artistry and religious devotion of the 10th-century Kadamba dynasty.

The discovery has sparked interest among art historians, archaeologists, and devotees alike, as it adds to the corpus of early medieval Vaishnava iconography in India. Experts hope the sculpture will be further studied and eventually displayed in a manner that allows the public and scholars to appreciate its historical and artistic significance.

Conclusion

The accidental discovery of the Gajalakshmi sculpture in Parye, Goa, marks a significant contribution to India’s cultural heritage. Dating back to the 10th century and the Kadamba period, it exemplifies ancient craftsmanship, Vaishnava devotion, and royal symbolism, making it a treasured artifact for both historical research and public admiration.