2025-05-09 Fri

Mudras are symbolic hand gestures used in Hinduism, Buddhism, and yoga to channel energy, enhance meditation, or convey specific meanings. Each mudra has a unique purpose, often tied to spiritual, psychological, or physical effects.

These gestures comprise specific finger movements and have been extensively employed in the realms of Buddhist sculpture and paintings across various regions, including India, Tibet, China, Korea, and Japan.

In the Hinayana tradition, it was believed that since Lord Buddha attained Nirvana, he should not be depicted in earthly forms. Consequently, symbols such as the chakra, Buddhapada (Lord Buddha's footprint), lotus, and Bodhi tree were utilized to represent him. However, with the emergence of Mahayana Buddhism, artists began to portray Lord Buddha in human form. The creation of Buddha statues became significant, with the accompanying hand gestures serving as a medium for conveying essential moral teachings.

Several notable hand gestures or mudras are prominently featured in Buddha sculptures. Popular among these are Abhaya mudra, Bhumisparsha mudra, Dhyana mudra, Varada mudra, and Dharmachakra mudra.

In 1972, India hosted the Third #asian #International Trade Fair (#Asia'72) in #NewDelhi. To commemorate this significant event, the Government of India issued two postal stamps on November 3, 1972. One among these showcased the hand of Lord Buddha in Abhaya mudra, with a face value of Rs 1 and 45 paise.

The term ‘Abhaya’ translates to fearlessness in Sanskrit and this mudra symbolizes protection, peace, and the dispelling of Fear. An intriguing Legend within the Buddhist tradition recounts that Devadatta, a cousin of the Lord Buddha, incited a schism among the Lord Buddha's disciples out of jealousy. As his pride escalated, he attempted to eliminate the Lord Buddha by unleashing a rampaging elephant upon him. However, as the elephant approached, the Lord Buddha demonstrated the Abhaya mudra, which successfully calmed the creature. This gesture represents not only the pacification of the senses but also the embodiment of fearlessness.