Makara is a mythical sea creature that holds a significant place in Hindu mythology and art. The word Makara is derived from the Sanskrit language, where it means “sea animal” or “crocodile.” It is often depicted with the head of an elephant and the body of a crocodile. The creature is believed to be the mount of Varuna, the ancient Hindu god of water and the sea.
Makara is also associated with the zodiac sign of Capricorn and is considered a symbol of fertility, love, and protection. The creature is often depicted in Hindu and Buddhist temples, guarding the entranceways and thresholds. Makara is also believed to be a symbol of power and strength, making it a popular motif in Indian art and architecture.
The fantastical creature is not only found in Indian mythology but also in other Asian cultures, such as Sri Lanka, Burma, Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, China, and Japan. The Makara is a fascinating creature that has captured the imagination of people for centuries, making it an intriguing topic to explore.
Origins and Mythology
Makara is a legendary sea-creature that has been a part of Hindu and Buddhist mythology for centuries. This mythical creature has been depicted in various forms in ancient texts and artwork. The origins of Makara are shrouded in mystery, and it is not clear where this creature originated from.
Hindu Mythology
In Hindu mythology, Makara is often depicted as a half-fish, half-crocodile creature that is associated with the primordial cosmic waters. Makara is considered to be the vehicle of the river goddess Ganga, Narmada, and the god of the ocean, Varuna. It is also believed to be the guardian of gateways and thresholds.
Buddhist Lore
In Buddhist literature, Makara is described as a symbol of wisdom and the cyclical nature of existence. The Jataka tales often describe the Buddha in past lives as a Makara. It is also believed that Makara is associated with the element of water, which is a symbol of purity and clarity.
Cultural Significance
Makara has been an important symbol in Hindu and Buddhist culture for centuries. In Hindu astrology, Makara is equivalent to the Zodiac sign Capricorn. It is also depicted as the half-goat, half-fish icon of Capricorn, which is the symbol of earth and water combined. Makara is often used in artwork and architecture, such as the Kaushambi Makara pillar capital, which dates back to the 2nd century BC.
In conclusion, Makara is a fascinating creature that has been a part of Hindu and Buddhist mythology for centuries. Its origins are shrouded in mystery, but it has remained an important symbol of wisdom, purity, and protection in these cultures.
Physical Description
Makara is a mythical sea creature in Hindu and Buddhist mythology. It has been depicted in various forms and shapes across different cultures and time periods. This section will explore the physical description of Makara, including its iconography and comparative anatomy.
Iconography
Makara is often depicted with the body of a water creature and the head of a land animal. Its head is typically shown with the jaws of a crocodile, the trunk of an elephant, and the eyes of a monkey. The scales of a fish and the tail of a peacock or a fish are also commonly incorporated into its iconography. Makara’s feet are usually those of a panther or a goat.
Comparative Anatomy
Comparative anatomy suggests that Makara may have been inspired by real-life creatures. Some scholars argue that Makara is based on the dugong, a marine mammal that is found in the Indian Ocean. Others suggest that it may have been inspired by the crocodile or the alligator.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding its origins, Makara remains an important figure in Hindu and Buddhist mythology. Its unique physical features and symbolism have made it a popular subject of art and architecture across Asia.
Symbolism and Interpretation
Astrological Associations
In Hindu astrology, the Makara is associated with the zodiac sign of Capricorn. This is because the creature is often depicted as a sea-monster or crocodile, which are creatures that are known to have a strong and resilient nature. The Makara is also associated with the planet Saturn, which is known for its slow-moving and steady influence. This association with Saturn is thought to represent the Makara’s ability to provide stability and structure.
Literary References
The Makara has been referenced in various ancient Hindu texts, such as the Mahabharata and Puranas. In these texts, the creature is often associated with other mythical creatures, such as the Naga and the Garuda. The Makara is also mentioned in Buddhist literature, where it is sometimes described as a symbol of wisdom and the cyclical nature of existence.
In addition to its role in mythology and astrology, the Makara is also a popular symbol in art and architecture. The creature is often depicted in temple iconography and can be found on the entrances to Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka and Hindu religious buildings. The Makara is also associated with knowledge, destiny, and prosperity, making it a powerful symbol in many cultures.
Makara in Art and Architecture
Sculptures and Carvings
Makara motifs are widely used in South Asian and Southeast Asian sculptures and carvings. They are often depicted as a sea creature with the head of a crocodile, the body of a fish, and the tail of a peacock. These carvings can be found on temple walls, pillars, and sacred pools. Makara sculptures are also used as decorative pieces in modern homes.
Temple Decorations
In Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain architecture, Makara is often used as an emblem. It is commonly depicted on arched gateways (toranas) for ceremonial purposes. Makara is also used to decorate thrones and staircases. These decorations are often associated with other mythical creatures, such as the naga and the garuda.
Modern Depictions
In modern times, Makara is still used as a decorative element. It is often found on textiles, furniture, and jewelry. Makara designs are also used in modern architecture, such as on the facades of buildings. Makara is a popular motif in South Asian and Southeast Asian art and design, and it continues to inspire contemporary artists and designers.
Regional Variations
South Asian Interpretations
Makara is a mythical creature that has been interpreted in various ways across South Asia. In Hindu mythology, it is often depicted as a sea monster with the forequarters of a crocodile and the backs of a snake. It is also considered the guardian of gateways and thresholds, protecting the entranceways to Hindu and Buddhist temples.
In some South Asian cultures, Makara is associated with the god of love, Kamadeva. It is equivalent to the Capricorn zodiac sign and is often shown as the emblem of Kamadeva. In Jainism, Makara is believed to be based on the dugong, a marine mammal found in the Indian Ocean.
Southeast Asian Depictions
In Southeast Asia, Makara has traversed the Indian Ocean and made its mark on Hindu-Buddhist monuments and ceremonial paraphernalia. The creature is often depicted as a chimeric creature composed of parts from an elephant, a crocodile, and a fish, among others.
In Indonesia, Makara is known as a sea dragon and is often depicted in traditional art. It is sometimes depicted as a creature with the head of a dragon, the body of a fish, and the tail of a peacock. In Cambodia, Makara is associated with the god Vishnu and is often depicted as a sea monster with the head of an elephant and the body of a fish.
Overall, Makara has been interpreted in various ways across South and Southeast Asia, but it remains a significant mythical creature in the region.
Festivals and Celebrations
Makara, the mythical sea creature, plays a significant role in many Hindu festivals and celebrations. One of the most popular festivals in which Makara is celebrated is the Makar Sankranti, which marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Makara or Capricorn.
During this festival, people take a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges River, which is believed to be the abode of Makara. They also offer prayers to the deity and prepare various delicacies made of sesame seeds, jaggery, and rice.
Apart from Makar Sankranti, Makara also plays a vital role in the Kumbh Mela, a major pilgrimage for Hindus that takes place every 12 years. During this festival, millions of devotees take a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, which are believed to be the abode of Makara.
In addition to these festivals, Makara is also celebrated in various other Hindu festivals and ceremonies, such as weddings and housewarming ceremonies. The presence of Makara in these ceremonies is believed to bring good fortune, prosperity, and protection from evil forces.
Overall, the celebration of Makara in Hindu festivals and ceremonies is a testament to the significance of this mythical creature in Hindu mythology and culture.
Conservation of Myth
Mythical creatures have been a part of human culture for centuries, and their stories continue to be passed down from generation to generation. While some may dismiss these stories as mere fiction, they play an important role in preserving cultural heritage and promoting creativity and imagination.
One way to conserve these myths is through the arts. In many cultures, mythical creatures are depicted in paintings, sculptures, and other forms of art. These works not only serve as visual representations of the myths but also help keep the stories alive in the minds of people who view them.
Another way to conserve myths is through education. By teaching children about these stories, we can ensure that they are passed down to future generations. This can be done through storytelling, reading books, or incorporating myths into school curriculums.
It is also important to recognize the cultural significance of these myths. Many of them are deeply rooted in religious and spiritual beliefs and are an essential part of a culture’s identity. By preserving these stories, we can help preserve the cultural heritage of a society.
In conclusion, the conservation of myths is crucial to the preservation of cultural heritage and the promotion of creativity and imagination. Through the arts, education, and recognition of cultural significance, we can ensure that these stories continue to be passed down for generations to come.