The Jain Goddess Ambika

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Abrika serves as a revered goddess or yakshi, worshipped on behalf of mothers and infants. She sits majestically with her child beneath a mango tree, a symbol associated with female fertility, while grasping a mango stem firmly in her hand. Her second child stands below, accompanied by her sacred vehicle the lion, and two devoted worshippers who appear to be in awe of her presence. Additionally, Abrika is recognized as a helpful ally of Neminatha, the 22nd Jain savior, whose haloed figure can be seen sitting above her. This sculpture represents a captivating image of the voluptuous Ambika, the Jain goddess revered for her association with mothers and infants. Here she is depicted with her child seated on a double lotus throne beneath a majestic mango tree. She gently shields the infant with her left hand while holding a mango branch in her right. Her second child is visible on the lower frieze, stretching up to reach his mother. The image of the mango is deeply connected to rounded female forms, particularly breasts, due to its association with the Sanskrit and Hindi words for 'mango' ('amra' and 'amb, amba') and 'mother' ('amba' and 'amma'). This correlation is further emphasized by the similarity between these words. Abrika's vehicle, the lion, sits attentively beneath the lotus throne, accompanied by two figures of kneeling worshippers. These individuals may be the donors who commissioned this sculpture, demonstrating their devotion to the goddess. As an attendant deity, Abrika is closely associated with Neminatha, the 22nd Jain 'tirthanakara' (founder of the religious community). His haloed form appears directly above her, flanked by attendants, garland bearers, and celestial musicians who seem to be in a state of reverent awe.