Orissa
brass alloy
A rare temple toy of a double-headed bird on wheels, representing the mythical creature Gandaberunda. This legendary bird, still used as an emblem of royal families including the Wodeyars of Mysore, is shown clutching elephants in its beaks, a symbol of divine strength and the power to overcome destructive forces. Temple toys such as this were displayed during major festivals including Holi, Shivaratri, and Durga Puja.
The mythology of Gandaberunda is traced to the Puranas. After Vishnu, in his Narasimha form, killed the demon Hiranyakashipu, his uncontrollable rage threatened cosmic balance. To subdue him, Shiva assumed the form of Sharabha—part-lion, part-elephant—but Sharabha himself became a force of destruction. In response, Vishnu transformed into Gandaberunda, whose power finally subdued Sharabha.
Size (cms): 12.5(H) x 17.5(W) x 10(D)
Size (inches): 5(H) x 7(W) x 4(D)
