Rare 12-Headed Shiva Sculpture "Mahasadashiv" in Nagpur Declared a Global Treasure
A 12-headed sculpture of Lord Shiva, dating back to the 3rd-7th century CE, has been identified as one of the rarest artifacts of its kind in the world. Known as ‘Mahasadashiv,’ this sculpture is located at the Rai Bahadur Dr. Hiralal Museum in Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University (RTMNU). This was discovered during excavations in Mandhal, near Nagpur, in 1975-76, the sculpture has become a subject of fascination for historians and art scholars.
The 12-headed depiction of Shiva is unlike any other discovered in India. Represented in the ‘Sthanaka’ (Static) posture, the deity is shown with two arms, holding a staff in one hand and a water pot in the other. The heads are arranged in two tiers on the neck, with additional faces on the shoulders and thighs, each crafted with serene expressions.
Ancient Hindu texts, including the Mahabharata, describe Shiva as ‘Dvadasha Sarvaparshvamukha’—a 12-faced manifestation symbolizing his omnipresence.
Dr. Prabash Sahu, Head of the Ancient Indian History, Culture & Archaeology Department at RTMNU, explains about the white sandstone of sculpture, now exhibits a reddish tint due to minerals absorbed during its centuries-long burial. He believes the burial was a deliberate act to protect it from invaders, ensuring its preservation until safer times.
Dr. Sahu also points to a 10-headed sculpture found in Tala, now displayed at the Khairagarh Museum, which could be part of the same regional artistic tradition. These discoveries shed light on the skill and vision of ancient craftsmen and their efforts to depict complex theological ideas through art.
Shiva’s multi-headed forms, like the ‘Mahasadashiv,’ are rare and significant in Hindu iconography, representing his divine aspects and cosmic presence. While four-headed and five-headed depictions are common, this 12-headed representation stands out as an unparalleled achievement.
As scholars continue to study this extraordinary sculpture, it remains a vital link to India’s rich cultural heritage and a gateway to understanding the profound symbolism of ancient Hindu philosophy. The ‘Mahasadashiv’ sculpture is more than a historical artifact—it is a timeless reminder of the artistry and spirituality of India’s past.
