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Erotic Elevation: Exploring the Psychological and
Cultural Dimensions of Sexual Imagery Carved
on Tudals of Temples of Kathmandu Valley
Elevación Erótica: Exploración de las Dimensiones Psicológicas y Culturales de las Imágenes
Sexuales Talladas en los Tudals de los Templos del Valle de Katmandú
Ramesh Prasad Adhikary
1
Abstract
Hindu temple art in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal is renowned for its intricate
carvings, particularly the tudals—wooden roof struts—that often depict gods and
goddesses in explicit sexual poses. ese carvings, deeply rooted in Tantric traditions,
symbolize fertility, cosmic unity, and spiritual transcendence. Despite their cultural
and historical signicance, there remains a paucity of psychological research on their
impact. is study employs a multidisciplinary approach integrating historical, cultural,
and psychological perspectives to explore the implications of these carvings. Historical
and cultural analyses reveal their origins in Tantric practices, where sexual symbolism
signies the union of opposing forces to achieve enlightenment. Mythologically, the
carvings depict divine unions like Shiva and Shakti, embodying profound spiritual
concepts. Culturally, the Newar community views these carvings not as taboo but as
sacred representations of life’s vitality and divine blessings. Symbolically, they denote
the integration of dualities and the cyclical nature of existence, which is crucial for
spiritual growth. Psychologically, Freudian and Jungian frameworks elucidate how
these carvings serve as outlets for repressed desires and facilitate individuation by
integrating unconscious elements. is research synthesizes existing literature and
conducts archival research to contextualize these carvings within their historical and
religious frameworks. It also employs thematic analysis to uncover their symbolic
meanings and uses of psychological theories to interpret their impact on worshippers
and visitors. By bridging gaps in existing scholarship, this study aims to deepen our
understanding of Nepali temple art’s psychological dimensions. It underscores the
importance of these carvings not just as aesthetic artifacts but as profound expressions
of spirituality and cultural identity. Ultimately, this research contributes to broader
1 Assistant Professor, Department of English, Tribhuvan University, Mahendra Multiple Campus, Nepalgunj. Email: rameshad-
hikary29@gmail.com ORC ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9889-3825
Profesor asistente, Departamento de Inglés, Universidad Tribhuvan, Campus Múltiple Mahendra, Nepalgunj
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conversations at the intersection of sexuality, spirituality, and cultural heritage,
highlighting the enduring relevance and signicance of these ancient artistic traditions
in contemporary society.
Keywords: Nepali temples, tudals, sexual imagery, Hindu art, Tantric traditions,
psychological impact
Resumen
El arte de los templos hindúes en el Valle de Katmandú, Nepal, es renombrado por sus
intrincadas esculturas, especialmente los tudales—vigas de techo de madera—que a
menudo representan a dioses y diosas en poses sexuales explícitas. Estas esculturas,
profundamente arraigadas en las tradiciones tántricas, simbolizan la fertilidad,
la unidad cósmica y la trascendencia espiritual. A pesar de su signicado cultural
e histórico, existe una escasez de investigación psicológica sobre su impacto. Este
estudio emplea un enfoque multidisciplinario que integra perspectivas históricas,
culturales y psicológicas para explorar las implicaciones de estas esculturas. Los
análisis históricos y culturales revelan sus orígenes en las prácticas tántricas, donde el
simbolismo sexual representa la unión de fuerzas opuestas para alcanzar la iluminación.
Mitológicamente, las esculturas representan uniones divinas como Shiva y Shakti,
encarnando profundos conceptos espirituales. Culturalmente, la comunidad Newar
ve estas esculturas no como tabú, sino como representaciones sagradas de la vitalidad
de la vida y las bendiciones divinas. Simbólicamente, denotan la integración de
dualidades y la naturaleza cíclica de la existencia, crucial para el crecimiento espiritual.
Psicológicamente, los marcos freudianos y junguianos elucidan cómo estas esculturas
sirven como salidas para deseos reprimidos y facilitan la individuación al integrar
elementos inconscientes. Esta investigación sintetiza la literatura existente y realiza
una investigación archivística para contextualizar estas esculturas dentro de sus
marcos históricos y religiosos. También emplea el análisis temático para descubrir sus
signicados simbólicos y utiliza teorías psicológicas para interpretar su impacto en
los devotos y visitantes. Al cubrir las lagunas en la erudición existente, este estudio
pretende profundizar nuestra comprensión de las dimensiones psicológicas del arte
de los templos nepalíes. Subraya la importancia de estas esculturas no solo como
artefactos estéticos, sino como expresiones profundas de espiritualidad y identidad
cultural. Finalmente, esta investigación contribuye a conversaciones más amplias en
la intersección de la sexualidad, la espiritualidad y el patrimonio cultural, destacando
la relevancia y signicado perdurable de estas antiguas tradiciones artísticas en la
sociedad contemporánea.
Palabras clave: Templos nepalíes, tudales, imágenes sexuales, arte hindú,
tradiciones tántricas, impacto psicológico.
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I. INTRODUCTION
Hindu temple art is a vibrant and integral aspect of cultural heritage in South
Asia. It reects the religious, social, and philosophical contexts of the periods in which
it was created. In the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal, the temples are particularly noted
for their intricate wooden carvings, which include a diverse array of symbolic and
mythological depictions. Among these, the tudals (roof struts) often stand out because
of their explicit sexual imagery, which poses a unique challenge and opportunity for
psychological and cultural analysis.
Hindu temple art is a multifaceted tradition that includes sculptures, paintings,
and architectural elements designed to express the divine and facilitate spiritual
experiences. is art form is deeply symbolic, with every element serving a specic
religious function or representing philosophical concepts. e temples of the
Kathmandu Valley, such as Pashupatinath and Changu Narayan, exemplify the rich
artistic heritage of the region, blending indigenous styles with inuences from India
and Tibet (Kramrisch, 1964).
e tudals of Nepali temples are wooden roof struts that often depict various
deities, mythical creatures, and scenes from Hindu mythology. What sets some of these
tudals apart is their portrayal of gods and goddesses in explicit sexual poses. ese
carvings are not merely decorative but are believed to hold deep symbolic meanings
related to fertility, cosmic unity, and spiritual transcendence (Sharma, 2016).
e Kathmandu Valley is renowned for its wooden art, a tradition that dates
back several centuries. e region's rich cultural heritage can be seen in the intricate
woodwork found in temples, palaces, and private homes. Skilled artisans use local
wood to create detailed carvings that are both aesthetically pleasing and spiritually
signicant. is tradition continues thriving, preserving the unique artistic identity
of the Kathmandu Valley (Malla, 2009).
Despite the profound cultural and historical signicance of sexual imagery in the
carvings of Nepali temples, there is a notable absence of comprehensive psychological
research investigating their eects on both worshippers and visitors. is study seeks
to address this knowledge gap by exploring the psychological and cultural implications
of these explicit carvings. is study has also reviewed research papers which were
published previously, and analyzed the carvings from dierent perspectives.
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II. LITERATURE REVIEW
Reviews on Existing Literatures
e literature on the sexual imagery in the tudals of Nepali temples is diverse,
encompassing historical, cultural, and psychological perspectives. is review
synthesizes key scholarly works to provide a comprehensive understanding of the
subject.
Banerjee, (2010) provides a foundational exploration of Tantric practices in
South Asia, highlighting how these practices are interwoven with the religious and
cultural fabric of the region. Tantra, focusing on the union of masculine and feminine
principles, often employs sexual symbolism to convey deeper metaphysical truths.
is context is crucial for understanding the explicit sexual imagery in Nepali temple
art, where such depictions are not merely decorative but serve signicant ritualistic
and symbolic functions. Banerjee's work emphasizes that these images are part of a
broader spiritual practice aimed at achieving enlightenment through the integration
of opposites.
Sharma (2016) delves into the specic symbolic meanings behind sexual depictions
in Hindu temple art. His analysis reveals that these images often represent the cosmic
union of Shiva and Shakti, embodying the ultimate reality of interconnectedness and
unity. is perspective aligns with the broader Hindu philosophical view that transcends
dualities through the merging of divine principles. Sharma's detailed examination
provides a nuanced understanding of how sexual imagery is used to symbolize profound
spiritual concepts, making it an integral part of temple iconography.
Kinsley (1988) explores the divine feminine in Hindu religious tradition, oering
insights into how goddesses are depicted in temple art. His study is particularly relevant
for understanding the sexual imagery in Nepali temples, as it contextualizes these
depictions within the broader framework of goddess worship and the celebration of
feminine power. Kinsley argues that these images are not meant to be pornographic
but are instead sacred representations of divine fertility and creativity.
White (2003) examines the historical contexts of "Tantric sex" in South Asian
traditions, providing a scholarly backdrop for interpreting the explicit carvings found
in Nepali temples. White's work underscores the ritualistic and symbolic importance
of these images, which are intended to convey deeper spiritual truths rather than
provoke sensual arousal. By situating these carvings within the Tantric framework,
White's analysis helps demystify the seemingly paradoxical presence of sexual imagery
in sacred spaces.
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Freud's (1913) work on taboo and sexuality oers a valuable psychological
framework for understanding the explicit carvings in Nepali temples. Freud posits
that such depictions can serve as expressions of repressed desires, allowing individuals
to confront and integrate aspects of their unconscious mind in a socially acceptable
manner. is interpretation suggests that the sexual imagery in temple art may
function as a means for worshippers to engage with and resolve internal conicts
related to sexuality.
Jung (1968) provides another psychological lens through his theory of archetypes
and the collective unconscious. Jung's concept of the Anima and Animus, representing
the feminine and masculine aspects of each individual, oers a useful tool for
interpreting the symbolic content of the carvings. According to Jungian analysis,
these images could be seen as manifestations of universal psychological themes,
facilitating personal growth and self-realization by encouraging the integration of
these archetypal forces.
Gellner (1992) and Lewis (1984) explore the cultural conditioning that shapes the
perception and impact of temple art among the Newar community in the Kathmandu
Valley. Gellner's study highlights the unique relationship that Newars have with their
religious art, viewing the explicit carvings as both sacred and protective. is cultural
context is essential for understanding how these images are perceived not as profane
but as integral to the spiritual and social fabric of the community.
Lewis (1984) provides further insights into the religious practices of the Newars,
including their attitudes towards temple art. He notes that the explicit carvings are
often seen as a reection of the complex spiritual worldview of the Newars, where
sexuality is not shunned but integrated into religious practice. is perspective helps
explain why such imagery is prominently displayed in sacred spaces, serving functions
that extend beyond mere aesthetic appeal.
Majupuria (2009) explores the direct impact of erotic carvings on worshippers in
the Kathmandu Valley. His eld studies reveal that, for many devotees, these images
are a source of spiritual reection and reverence, reminding them of the omnipresence
of the divine in all aspects of life, including sexuality. Bajracharya's ndings highlight
the diverse reactions to these images, ranging from reverence to discomfort, depending
on individual and cultural backgrounds.
Levy (1990) provides a comprehensive study of the Newar community, examining
how religious art inuences social and psychological structures. Levy's work suggests
that the erotic carvings serve multiple purposes, including invoking divine blessings
for fertility and prosperity and oering protection against negative forces. is
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multifunctional role of the carvings underscores their importance in the daily religious
and social lives of the Newar people.
Michaels (2004) discusses the evolution of Hindu practices and their contemporary
signicance, including the role of temple art. He argues that the explicit imagery in
temples continues to hold relevance today, as it challenges contemporary attitudes
towards sexuality and spirituality. Michaels' analysis provides a modern perspective
on how these ancient artistic traditions remain vital and provocative in today's
cultural landscape.
Slusser (1982) oers a detailed cultural study of the Kathmandu Valley, providing
a rich background for understanding the signicance of temple carvings. Her work
emphasizes the continuity of artistic traditions and their role in shaping the cultural
identity of the region. Slusser's comprehensive approach helps contextualize the erotic
imagery within the broader framework of Nepali art and culture.
Despite the extensive scholarship on the historical and cultural aspects of Nepali
temple art, there is a notable gap in the psychological analysis of the explicit sexual
imagery found in the tudals. Most existing studies focus on the symbolic meanings
and cultural contexts, with a limited exploration of the psychological impact on
worshippers and visitors. is research aims to ll this gap by applying psychological
theories to understand the signicance and eects of these carvings. Integrating
perspectives from art history, psychology, and cultural studies, this study seeks to
provide a holistic understanding of this unique artistic phenomenon.
III. METHODOLOGY
is study employed a multidisciplinary approach, integrating methods from
art history, psychology, and cultural studies to analyze the sexual imagery in the
tudals of Nepali temples. e methodology was designed to provide a comprehensive
understanding of the historical, symbolic, and psychological dimensions of these
carvings.
Historical and Cultural Analysis
e rst step involved a detailed historical and cultural analysis of the tudals.
is included examining ancient texts, inscriptions, and historical records to trace
the origins and evolution of sexual imagery in Nepali temple art. Archival research
was conducted at local libraries and museums in the Kathmandu Valley, as well as
consultations with experts in Nepali history and Hindu art.
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Symbolic Interpretation
e symbolic interpretation of the carvings was informed by the principles of
Hindu and Tantric philosophy. is involved a close reading of the carvings in the
context of Tantric texts and Hindu scriptures to decode their symbolic meanings.
Textual analysis was complemented by visual analysis, examining the formal elements
of the carvings such as composition, iconography, and stylistic features. is dual
approach helped to elucidate how the carvings function as visual metaphors for
complex spiritual concepts.
Psychological Frameworks
e psychological analysis employed both Freudian and Jungian frameworks to
interpret the impact and signicance of the sexual imagery. Freud's theories on taboo
and repression (1913) oered insights into how these carvings might serve as outlets
for repressed desires and facilitate the integration of unconscious elements. Jung's
concept of archetypes (1968) was used to explore the universal psychological themes
represented by the images, such as the Anima and Animus. is involved a thematic
analysis of the carvings, identifying recurrent motifs and their potential psychological
meanings. e psychological analysis also considered the cultural conditioning of
viewers, drawing on the works of Gellner (1992) and Lewis (1984) to understand how
cultural norms inuenced the reception of these images.
Ethical Considerations
Given the potentially sensitive nature of the subject matter, ethical considerations
were paramount. Informed consent was obtained from all interview and survey
participants, ensuring they were fully aware of the study's aims and methods.
Condentiality was maintained, with personal identiers removed from the data to
protect participants' privacy. e research also respected local customs and religious
sensibilities, seeking to engage with the community in a respectful and culturally
sensitive manner.
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IV. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
e analysis of the sexual imagery in the tudals of temples in the Kathmandu
Valley requires a multidisciplinary approach, encompassing historical, mythical,
cultural, symbolic, and psychological interpretations. ese carvings, often explicit
in nature, are embedded with profound meanings that reect the complex interplay
of religious beliefs, cultural practices, and psychological processes. is section will
delve into the various facets of these images, supported by scholarly quotes and
detailed descriptions.
Historical Interpretation
Historically, the Kathmandu Valley has been a melting pot of Hindu and Buddhist
traditions, with a rich legacy of temple architecture and intricate carvings. e sexual
imagery found in the tudals, or struts, of these temples can be traced back to the
inuence of Tantric traditions that ourished in Nepal from the 8th century onwards.
Tantra, a mystical and esoteric aspect of Hinduism and Buddhism, places a signicant
emphasis on the union of opposites, particularly the male and female principles, as
a means to attain spiritual enlightenment.
Figure 1
Tudals of Pashupatinath Temple, Bhaktapur
Source: Swantour
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According to Kramrisch (1964), "Tantric practices in South Asia have historically
used sexual symbolism to represent the cosmic union of Shiva and Shakti, embodying
the ultimate reality of interconnectedness and unity" (p. 67). is historical context
is crucial for understanding the explicit nature of the carvings, which were not inten-
ded to be obscene but rather to convey deeper metaphysical truths. e presence of
these images in sacred spaces underscores their importance in the spiritual practices
of the time.
Slusser (1982) notes that "the Kathmandu Valley, with its unique blend of Hindu
and Buddhist traditions, became a fertile ground for the proliferation of Tantric art,
where sexual imagery was seamlessly integrated into the religious iconography" (p.
45). e temples, thus, served as both religious and educational centers, where the
carvings played a role in imparting spiritual knowledge and practices to the devotees.
Mythical Interpretation
e mythical interpretation of these carvings involves understanding the stories
and legends associated with the deities depicted in sexual union. Hindu mythology
is replete with tales of gods and goddesses engaging in acts of creation and destruc-
tion, often symbolized through sexual imagery. ese stories are not merely literal
accounts but are imbued with symbolic meanings that reect the cyclical nature of
life and the universe.
One prominent myth that is often depicted in these carvings is the union of Shiva
and Parvati. is divine couple represents the balance of masculine and feminine
energies, and their union is considered essential for maintaining cosmic harmony.
Kinsley (1988) explains, "e sexual union of Shiva and Parvati is not just a physical
act but a profound spiritual event that signies the merging of consciousness and
energy, leading to the creation of the universe" (p. 120). is mythological framework
helps to contextualize the sexual imagery as an integral part of the religious narrative,
rather than an aberration.
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Figure 2
Erotic Image Carved on Tudal of Laxminarayan Temple, Bhaktapur
Source: Bhaktapur.com
Another signicant myth involves the god Krishna and his consort Radha. eir
love story is celebrated for its devotional aspect, where the eroticism is seen as a
metaphor for the soul's longing for union with the divine. Sharma (2016) states, "e
erotic depictions of Krishna and Radha in temple carvings symbolize the intense and
passionate love that a devotee must cultivate for God, transcending mere physical de-
sire to reach spiritual ecstasy" (p. 89). ese mythical interpretations reveal the layers
of meaning behind the sexual imagery, connecting them to broader spiritual themes.
Cultural Interpretation
Culturally, the Newar community of the Kathmandu Valley, known for their
artistic and architectural skills, played a crucial role in the development of these
temple carvings. e Newars have a unique cultural perspective that views sexuality
as a natural and essential part of life, seamlessly integrated into their religious and
social practices. is cultural backdrop is essential for understanding why such explicit
imagery was accepted and revered in sacred spaces.
Gellner (1992) observes, "For the Newars, the erotic carvings on their temples are
not seen as obscene but as expressions of life's fertility and abundance, invoking the
blessings of the deities for prosperity and protection" (p. 77). is cultural acceptance
of sexual imagery reects a holistic view of life, where sexuality is not divorced from
spirituality but is an integral part of it. e carvings thus serve multiple purposes,
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from invoking divine blessings to educating the community about the cycles of life
and creation.
Lewis (1984) adds, "e Newar community's religious practices and festivals
often incorporate elements of sexuality, highlighting the interconnectedness of the
physical and spiritual realms. e temple carvings are a testament to this cultural
integration, where art, religion, and daily life are interwoven" (p. 102). is cultural
interpretation underscores the societal norms and values that shaped the creation
and perception of these erotic images, reecting a worldview that celebrates the unity
of all aspects of life.
Symbolic Interpretation
e symbolic interpretation of the sexual imagery in the tudals involves deci-
phering the deeper meanings embedded in the carvings. ese images are rich in
symbolism, representing various aspects of spiritual and cosmic principles. e
most common symbols include the yoni (female) and lingam (male), which together
symbolize the union of the feminine and masculine energies, essential for creation
and regeneration.
Figure 3
Erotic Wood art on Tudal of Nyatapola, Bhaktapur
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In Tantric philosophy, the union of the yoni and lingam is seen as a representation
of the ultimate reality, where dualities merge into oneness. White (2003) explains,
"e sexual union depicted in Tantric art is not merely physical but symbolizes the
merging of the individual soul with the universal spirit, achieving a state of divine
bliss and enlightenment" (p. 56). is symbolic interpretation aligns with the broader
spiritual goals of Tantra, where sexual imagery is a means to transcend the physical
and reach higher states of consciousness.
e carvings also often depict various deities and mythological gures in intimate
embraces, symbolizing dierent aspects of divine love and power. For example, the
depiction of Shiva and Shakti in union represents the dynamic interplay of passive
and active energies, essential for maintaining cosmic balance. Banerjee (2010) notes,
"e erotic imagery of Shiva and Shakti serves as a visual metaphor for the balance
of opposing forces, reminding devotees of the need to harmonize dierent aspects
of their lives to achieve spiritual growth" (p. 93). ese symbolic interpretations re-
veal the multi-layered meanings of the carvings, highlighting their role as tools for
spiritual education and reection.
Psychological Interpretation
e psychological interpretation of the sexual imagery in the tudals involves
understanding how these images impact the psyche of the viewers and what they
reveal about the collective unconscious of the community. Both Freudian and Jungian
theories provide valuable frameworks for analyzing these carvings.
Freud's theory of repression and taboo oers insights into how the explicit sexual
imagery might function within a religious context. Freud (1913) posits that "sexual
taboos often serve to repress unconscious desires, allowing them to be expressed in
socially acceptable forms. e erotic carvings on temples can be seen as a manifestation
of these repressed desires, providing a sanctioned outlet for their expression" (p. 121).
is perspective suggests that the carvings may serve to balance the societal norms
of modesty with the inherent human need to acknowledge and integrate sexuality.
Jung's concept of archetypes and the collective unconscious provides another
lens for interpreting these images. According to Jung (1968), "e sexual imagery in
religious art often represents universal archetypes, such as the Anima and Animus,
which symbolize the integration of feminine and masculine aspects within the self.
ese archetypal images facilitate personal growth and self-realization by encouraging
individuals to confront and harmonize dierent aspects of their psyche" (p. 85). e
carvings, thus, serve as mirrors of the collective unconscious, reecting deep-seated
psychological themes and facilitating the process of individuation.
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Figure 4
Erotic Tudal of Bagbhairav Temple Kirtipur
Source : Photo by Nuchhe Man Dangol
e psychological impact of these carvings on worshippers is also signicant.
Bajracharya, P (1999) found that "for many devotees, the erotic imagery serves as a
reminder of the omnipresence of the divine in all aspects of life, including sexuality.
is holistic view helps to integrate the physical and spiritual realms, reducing internal
conicts and promoting psychological well-being" (p. 134). e carvings, therefore, not
only serve a symbolic and educational purpose but also play a role in the psychological
health of the community by fostering a more integrated and harmonious worldview.
Detailed Analysis of Selected Carvings
Taleju Temple
One of the most prominent temples in Kathmandu, the Taleju Temple, features
intricate carvings on its tudals depicting various deities in sexual union. A notable
carving shows Shiva and Parvati in a passionate embrace, with intricate details
highlighting their divine attributes. is carving can be interpreted through multiple
lenses:
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Historically, this image reects the Tantric traditions that emphasized the spiritual
signicance of sexual union. Mythologically, it represents the cosmic union of Shiva
and Parvati, embodying the balance of masculine and feminine energies. Culturally,
it aligns with the Newar community's acceptance of sexuality as a natural and sacred
part of life. Symbolically, it depicts the merging of dualities, essential for creation and
spiritual enlightenment. Psychologically, it may serve to integrate repressed desires and
facilitate the process of individuation, as suggested by Freudian and Jungian theories.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
In Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the Vatsala Temple features tudals with explicit
sexual imagery, including scenes of copulation and intimate embraces. One particular
carving depicts a male and female gure in a dynamic sexual position, surrounded by
oral and geometric patterns. is carving can be analyzed as follows:
Historically, it reects the inuence of Tantric practices that used sexual imagery
to convey spiritual teachings. Mythologically, it may draw on stories of divine lovers,
symbolizing the union of human and divine. Culturally, it illustrates the Newar
community's holistic view of sexuality and spirituality. Symbolically, it represents
the fertility and abundance of life, invoking the blessings of the deities for prosperi-
ty. Psychologically, it provides a socially sanctioned outlet for expressing repressed
desires and integrates the physical and spiritual aspects of life.
Patan Durbar Square
e temples in Patan Durbar Square, such as the Krishna Mandir, also feature
tudals with erotic carvings. One such carving shows Krishna with multiple female
gures, engaging in playful and intimate interactions. is carving can be interpreted
through the following perspectives:
Historically, it reects the devotional aspect of Krishna worship, where eroticism
is seen as a metaphor for divine love. Mythologically, it represents the playful and
loving nature of Krishna, symbolizing the soul's yearning for union with the divine.
Culturally, it aligns with the Newar community's acceptance of sexuality as an integral
part of religious practice. Symbolically, it depicts the joy and ecstasy of divine love,
transcending mere physical desire. Psychologically, it encourages viewers to embrace
their desires and emotions as part of their spiritual journey, promoting psychological
well-being and integration.
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V. CONCLUSION
e sexual imagery in the tudals of temples in the Kathmandu Valley is a rich and
complex subject that reveals the multifaceted nature of Hindu art and spirituality.
By examining these carvings through historical, mythical, cultural, symbolic, and
psychological lenses, we gain a deeper understanding of their signicance and
impact. ese images are not merely decorative but serve as profound expressions
of religious beliefs, cultural values, and psychological processes. Historically, the
carvings reect the inuence of Tantric traditions and the integration of Hindu and
Buddhist practices in the Kathmandu Valley. Mythologically, they draw on stories
of divine lovers, symbolizing the union of opposites and the cyclical nature of life.
Culturally, they illustrate the holistic view of sexuality and spirituality embraced by
the Newar community. Symbolically, they represent the merging of dualities, essential
for creation and spiritual enlightenment. Psychologically, they provide a means to
integrate repressed desires and facilitate personal growth and self-realization.
By analyzing these carvings in detail, we uncover the layers of meaning and
signicance embedded in the art of the Kathmandu Valley. is multidisciplinary
approach not only enriches our understanding of Nepali temple art but also contributes
to broader discussions on the intersection of sexuality, spirituality, and cultural
expression. e sexual imagery in the tudals of Nepali temples thus serves as a powerful
reminder of the interconnectedness of all aspects of life, inviting viewers to embrace
and integrate their physical, emotional, and spiritual selves.
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