Animals are a significant component of artistic and architectural traditions in India and usually depict mythical or divine attributes. Discuss with reference to the significance of tiger and elephant.

Significance of 'tiger':

1. Indian mythology - vehicle of Goddess Durga, symbol of courage and assertive power.

2. Art - embodied in Chola bronzes - found in Pahari miniatures & tribal art (eg. Warli).

3. Temple architecture & sculpture - carved in temple friezes as 'protectors', often used in South Indian gopurams.

4. Symbolic continuance - folk rituals like Pulikali celebrate strength of tigers & place them as symbols.

Significance of elephants:

1. Indian mythology - Maya's dream ties elephant to Buddhist narratives & Jataka tales.

2. Indian art - central to Ajanta murals, feature in Mughal & Rajput paintings.

3. Temple architecture and sculptures - depicted as 'dwarpals' (guardians) in temples. Carved at Sanchi, Konark architecture.

4. Elephant motifs in Ashokan pillars, symbolised peace post Kalinga war period.

— Disha Dhankhar · AIR 235