Gajalakshmi
Encyclopedia
Gajalakshmi, that is Lakshmi with elephants, is one of the most significant Ashtalakshmi aspects of the Hindu goddess Lakshmi
. In this aspect, the goddess is depicted seated on a lotus, flanked on both side by an elephant (gaja). She is shown as seated in Padmasana yogic
posture, and has four arms. In each of her upper pair of arms, she carries a lotus, and the lower hands are generally shown in abhya
and varadamudra
. The elephants flanking her are shown as pouring water from their trunk over the goddess. This aspect like most other aspects of Lakshmi is representative of prosperity, good luck, and abundance; and the Gajalakshmi motifs are very common in Hindu and Buddhist iconography.
The earliest available depiction of Gajalakshmi appears on a coin (3rd century) from Kausambi. One or two elephants depicted alongside a woman symbolized the birth of Gautam Buddha.
Lakshmi
Lakshmi or Lakumi is the Hindu goddess of wealth, prosperity , light, wisdom, fortune, fertility, generosity and courage; and the embodiment of beauty, grace and charm. Representations of Lakshmi are also found in Jain monuments...
. In this aspect, the goddess is depicted seated on a lotus, flanked on both side by an elephant (gaja). She is shown as seated in Padmasana yogic
Yoga
Yoga is a physical, mental, and spiritual discipline, originating in ancient India. The goal of yoga, or of the person practicing yoga, is the attainment of a state of perfect spiritual insight and tranquility while meditating on Supersoul...
posture, and has four arms. In each of her upper pair of arms, she carries a lotus, and the lower hands are generally shown in abhya
Abhayamudra
In the context of Hinduism, Abhayamudra, that is, the gesture of reassurance and safety, is a hand pose, which dispels fear and accords divine protection and bliss to the devotee. In Abhayamudra, the right hand is held upright, and the palm is facing outwards...
and varadamudra
Varadamudra
Varadamudra is a mudra, and it indicates a gesture by the hand and symbolizes dispensing of boons. For varadamudra, left hand is used. It is held out, with palm uppermost and the fingers pointing downwards...
. The elephants flanking her are shown as pouring water from their trunk over the goddess. This aspect like most other aspects of Lakshmi is representative of prosperity, good luck, and abundance; and the Gajalakshmi motifs are very common in Hindu and Buddhist iconography.
The earliest available depiction of Gajalakshmi appears on a coin (3rd century) from Kausambi. One or two elephants depicted alongside a woman symbolized the birth of Gautam Buddha.