apsara asana

I recently found myself with the rare privilage of photographing this mysterious *apsara. I first encountered her, by chance, in South India during the winter of 1989. After tracking her for more than 17 yrs., I've observed that she seldom touches down long enough to be seen at all -- to capture her on film is truly a noteworthy event.



*apsara (Sanskrit- apsarā):
Described in ancient Indian scripture as a female spirit of the clouds and waters. Acting as the handmaiden of Indra (King of the Heavens) , she dances and sings in the celestial realms.

The total number of apsaras is 26, each represents a distinct aspect of the sacred arts. The Natya Shastra (ancient scripture on performing arts) lists the following apsaras (such lovely names they have!): Manjukesi, Sukesi, Misrakesi, Sulochana, Saudamini, Devadatta, Devasena, Manorama, Sudati, Sundari, Vigagdha, Vividha, Budha, Sumala, Santati, Sunanda, Sumukhi, Magadhi, Arjuni, Sarala, Kerala, Dhrti, Nanda, Supuskala, Supuspamala and Kalabha.

Apsaras are able to change shape at will, as we see in the photograph. One of thier many duties is to guide fallen heroes to paradise although the more mischievous apsaras can be the nature spirits who lure men to their deaths...