Elucidate the significance of tiger and elephant figures in Indian mythology, art and architecture.

Significance of Tiger:

• 1. Indian mythology.
  • Associated with Shakti (power) as the "vahana" of Goddess Durga.
• 1. Indian art forms.
  • Tiger seen on Pashupati seal at Mohenjodaro
• 1. Architecture.
  • Use of "vyagraha" or tiger gate at temples.
• 1. Paintings. → scenes of Tiger hunting on Gupta coins

Role of Elephants:

• 1. Indian Mythology
  • Elephant in the form of "Airavat"
  • God Ganesha with the head of Elephant
• 1. Art forms
  • Associated with Gautam Buddha Birth
  • Prevalent in temples of South INDIA
• 1. Architecture
  • Use of "Hasta" or elephant gateway at temple.
  • Images of elephant associated with goddess "Gaj Lakshmi"