Varadamudra

Varadamudra is a mudra, and it indicates a gesture by the hand and symbolizes dispensing of boons. For varadamudra, the right hand is used. It is held out, with palm uppermost and the fingers pointing downwards. Varadamudra and abhayamudra are the most common of several other mudras seen on divine figures in the art of Indian religions.

Bodhisattva making varadamudra. Pala period, 12th century.
Gilded bronze Statue of Tara, Sri Lanka, 8th century CE. With her right hand, the bodhisattva makes varadamudra, the gesture of charity or gift-giving, while her left hand may originally have held a lotus.

Often the open hand is shown with a lotus bud in the centre.

References

  • Dictionary of Hindu Lore and Legend (ISBN 0-500-51088-1) by Anna Dallapiccola


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