Vishnu
is is known as the Preserver, the All-Pervading essence that exists outside of
and within time. Here Vishnu holds a conch shell in upper left hand, which represents
creativity. The Panchajanya is the originator of the five elements or Panchabhoota
- water, fire, air, earth and sky or space. The sound that evolves from blowing
this conch is the primeval sound of creation. The chakra, a sharp-spinning discus-like
weapon, named "Sudarshana", is held by the upper right hand. The charka as a weapon
thus indicates the necessity of destroying one's ego and illusory self-existence
and developing the vision to identify the eternal truth. The discus has six spokes
and symbolizes a lotus with six petals, thus representing the power that controls
all six seasons. A mace or Gada, named "Kaumodaki", is held by the lower left
hand. The mace symbolizes the primeval force from which all mental and physical
strength is derived. A lotus flower or Padma is held by the lower right hand,
which represents liberation or dispersion. The lotus symbolizes the power from
which the universe emerges. On the pedestal on either side of Vishnu is Hanuman
who is half man and half simian and Garuda who is half eagle and half man. Both
are allies of Vishnu: Hanuman is the beloved ally of Rama, an avatar of Vishnu.
Garuda, when gifted a boon by Vishnu becomes his mount through the heavens. During
the Hoysala and Chola Dynasty, statues such as this one would have been kept deep
within the precincts of the temple cared for by priests and then brought out on
holy days. The rich patina of this bronze radiates the magnificence of the deity
and is in excellent condition.