Shiva, in Hindu ideologies, has been depicted in many forms, from symbolising the destroyer of the entire creation to unifying as the sole carrier of the universe. As per popular beliefs, Shiva is worshipped in 64 major forms across the world, ‘Lingam’ being one of the most familiar forms. However, there is one form of Shiva that stays away from most of the discussions. Ekamra Kshetra stands witness to this form, harmonising its valuable essence into Odisha’s architectural marvels & cultural beliefs.
The Shaivite culture has evolved & manifested itself in many forms in the vicinity of Ekamra Kshetra. Following Hindu ideologies, Shiva is worshipped in many forms like Mukhalingam, Vrishabhantika, Gajasura Samhara, Lakulishwar etc. The Ekapada form of Shiva is considered to be one of its kind which denotes Shiva as the supreme authority of the universe.
From an archaeological perspective, the iconography of Ekapada Shiva is mostly found in the ancient Kalinga region (present-day Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana) & in some cases Rajasthan and Nepal. While the iconography differs across regions on certain parts, the belief system remains the same. There are three types of the iconography found across India. These are:
Ekapada
Ekapada Trimurti
Tripada Trimurti
The Ekapada Shiva iconography is mostly found in the Odisha region. The ancient sculpture is depicted as Ekapada Bhairava indicating the Rudra avatar of Shiva. This iconography suggests the merger of Shaivite beliefs with Tantra Sadhana. Ekapada Bhairava can be found with four arms with few exceptions where two-armed sculptures are present. Shiva can be seen with a short beard, mustache, bulging eyes, open mouth with protruding side teeth, and urdha-linga (ithyphallic). These kinds of iconographies are considered to invoke stillness for sadhana & pure concentration on God in the yogi and tantric.
The Ekapada form denotes the deity as the supreme pillar that upholds the entire universe & the reason behind its creation, preservation & destruction. In Ekapada Trimurti iconography, Brahma & Vishnu can be seen emerging without legs from the body of Shiva who is standing on one leg. However, in Tripada Trimurti, the legs of Vishnu & Brahma can be seen where one leg of both is still attached to Shiva. The Ekapada Trimurti idealises the theory of Shiva being the center of the universe while Brahma & Vishnu coming out of him. Whereas the Tripada Trimurti depicts that the Shiva has created Brahma & Vishnu & blessed them with divine powers to carry on the creation of the universe.
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