Vaisnava Art and Iconography of Kashmir

Vaisnavism played a very significant role in socio-religious and artistic expressions of Kashmir in ancient and medieval periods. Vaisnavism carved its due place in the minds of the people in the valley with equal amount, if not more than that of Buddhism and Saivism. In general, the religion of Visnu in the Kashmir valley shared the pan-Indian notion, yet in certain aspects, it maintained its individualistic approach. Such differences are noted in the texts as well as in the artistic expressions of the valley. The present book deals with the various facets of Vaisnavism in Kashmir with particular reference to the Vaisnava icons and art. The book deals with Para, Vyuha and Vibhava aspects of Visnu as well as with composite and syncretic aspects of the god. Attention has also been paid to the minor Vaisnavite deities including the personification of Visnu’s attributes. There has been a dearth of a comprehensive study on Vaisnava art and iconography of Kashmir and this book is likely to fill that gap.