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This stone sculpture of Gandharva is estimated to be of 10th century AD, this sculpture was discovered from Lashkar Gwalior, now it is included in the beautiful artifacts of the State Museum Bhopal.
Gandharvas are divine beings who are associated with artistic and creative abilities along with being the owner of amazing musical and singing talent. Mostly they performed in the court of Indra. Therefore, they are also called form changers. In most temples, they are depicted as a bridge between the celestial and the earthly ones through sculptures in brackets etc especially in South India.
According to Hindu mythology, Gandharvas are musicians, singers, entertainers etc in the divine courts of the Devas. They are described as handsome beings who wear fragrant attire and are passionate about women. In Hindu mythology, many Gandharvas are mentioned, such as; Chitrasen, Tumburu, Vishwavasu, Haha, etc . They are generally the husbands of apsaras.
In this monolithic stone sculpture it can be noticed that Gandharva is wearing a royal dhoti and upper clothes. They wear fine jewellery, which further highlights their divine form and beauty like girdle, bracelets, armlets, necklaces, earrings, anklets, a Crown with the golden aura. Hence Gandharvas maintain the dignity of their high position with their colourful and varied clothing, a symbol of wealth and luxury, creating a festive atmosphere.
Here the Gandharva is in the sitting posture of half padmasana and the other leg’s knee is on the ground and the foot is facing upward. He is holding musical instruments in both hands like string instruments in the right hand while Khartal in left hand.
These divine beings who were created by the laughter of Brahma, are also the protectors of Soma according to Hindu belief. They are the entertainer, music and dance performers in Indra’s lok.