Mahavidya Chhinnamasta : Acrylic Painting by Giri Ratna Singh

Unveiling the Power of Self-Sacrifice: Mahavidya Chhinnamasta Acrylic Painting by Giri Ratna Singh

Witness the embodiment of self-sacrifice and transformation in Mahavidya Chhinnamasta, a captivating portrayal by Lucknow-based artist Giri Ratna Singh through his acrylic painting. Her severed head, held aloft, symbolizes the ego’s release, while the scimitar in her other hand signifies the cutting away of illusion. This powerful depiction of the sixth Mahavidya delves into the profound depths of consciousness…

Chinnamasta is the fifth of ten Mahāvidyā-s. Chinna means cutoff or chopped off. In this form, Devi is holding her chopped head in her left hand. This form is slightly disturbing to look at, from the point of view of appearance and description.

Dhyana-Shloka:

स्वनाभौ नीरजं ध्यायाम्यर्धं विकसितं सितम् । तत्पद्मकोशमध्ये तु मण्डलं चण्डरोचिषः ॥ ५॥ 

जपाकुसुमसङ्काशं रक्तबन्धूकसन्निभम् । रजस्सत्वतमोरेखा योनिमण्डलमण्डितम् ॥ ६॥ 

तन्मध्ये तां महादेवीं सूर्यकोटिसमप्रभाम् । छिन्नमस्तां करे वामे धारयन्तीं स्वमस्तकम् ॥ ७॥ 

प्रसारितमुखीं देवीं लेलिहानाग्रजिह्विकाम् । पिबन्तीं रौधिरीं धारां निजकण्ठविनिर्गताम् ॥ ८॥ 

विकीर्णकेशपाशां च नानापुष्पसमन्विताम् । दक्षिणे च करे कर्त्रीं मुण्डमालाविभूषिताम् ॥ ९॥ 

दिगम्बरां महाघोरां प्रत्यालीढपदे स्थिताम् । अस्थिमालाधरां देवीं नागयज्ञेपवीतिनीम् ॥ १०॥ 

रतिकामोपरिष्ठां च सदा ध्यातां च मन्त्रिभिः । सदा षोडशवर्षीयां पीनोन्नतपयोधराम् ॥ ११॥

Unveiling the Enigma: An Exploration of Mahavidya Chhinnamasta

Chhinnamasta, the fifth of the ten Mahavidyas, is a multifaceted Hindu deity whose iconography is both striking and symbolic. Her depiction features a self-decapitated form, radiating an otherworldly light that obscures her nudity from the unworthy observer. Her two arms hold a fearsome knife/kartari, and her severed head, while three blazing eyes complete this powerful image.

A Multifaceted Iconography

Chhinnamasta’s appearance is a blend of the beautiful and the grotesque. Her radiant light signifies her divinity, while her self-decapitated form and unconventional posture challenge traditional notions of beauty. This juxtaposition serves to draw the devotee’s gaze beyond the physical and towards the symbolic meaning.

Unveiling the Mythology of Chhinnamasta

The mythology of Chhinnamasta centers around two primary narratives. The first recounts Parvati, consort of Shiva, sacrificing her own head to satiate her attendants’ hunger. This tale emphasizes the significance of complete surrender in attaining the goddess’s grace. The second story describes her birth from the procreative union of Shiva and Shakti, highlighting the concept of their equal and complementary power.

Beyond the Surface: A Journey into Symbolism

Mahavidya Chhinnamasta and her symbolism is profound and multifaceted:

• Self-Sacrifice and Transcendence: The severed head represents self-sacrifice and the transcendence of earthly desires.
• Vitality and Inner Channels: The three blood streams flowing from her neck symbolize the vital energy channels (ida, pingala, and sushumna) within the human body.
• Absorption and Transformation: The act of drinking blood signifies the absorption of devotees into her divine essence.
• Nudity and Liberation: Her nudity transcends physical limitations, urging devotees to seek spiritual liberation beyond the constraints of the corporeal.
• Mastery over Desires: Her stance upon Manmatha and Rati, the embodiment of love and desire, signifies the mastery over worldly temptations.

About the Artist:

Steeped in the traditions of Sri Vidya Tantra, acclaimed artist Giri Ratna Singh translates his profound understanding of Hindu scriptures onto canvas. Giri Ratna Singh’s acrylic painting captivates viewers with their vibrant colors, intricate details, and profound portrayal of Hindu deities.

Following the traditions laid down by the great Aagama and shilpa shastras, Singh leverages his mastery of Acrylic and Mixed Media to bring to life iconic portrayals of Hindu deities. Combining scriptural fidelity with artistic vision, painting by Giri Ratna Singh cater to those seeking authentic representations of the divine.

Medium: (Choose your preferred medium)

• Archival Matte Paper Print,
• Canvas Print

Available Sizes: Choose your preferred size (All dimensions are in inches)

• 5″ x 7″
• 8″ x 12″
• 12″ x 18″
• 16″ x 24″
• 20″ x 30″
• 24″ x 36″