Shiva Nataraya (right)
Shiva Nataraya is the term for the dancing Shiva. It was believed that the dancing of Shiva symbolized both the creation and destruction of the universe. If he danced in a balanced manner, there would be peace and happiness in the world, but if he danced furiously in anger, the world would meet with disasters to the point of complete destruction. It was necessary for people to worship, praise, plead and make sacrifices to his satisfaction, so that he would bestow blessing and happiness.
Shiva's Dancing occurs several times. On one occasion, he dances in the Taragam forest to punish the heretical hermits. On the other occasions he dances in the Chidambaram district in the middle of the universe at the request of Ananta nagaraja, the serpent king, and on Mount Kailasa for the deities who want to see it.
The Shiva Nataraya at Prasat Phanom Rung carved on the pediment in front of the mandapa (front porch) is the scene of the dance on Mount Kailasa. Shiva with ten arms wearing a crown is dancing on a throne. Although the section with the deities is damaged, Ganesha, Brahma and Vishnu are visible. One of the two female figures on the right is probably Kareikalammeyar, a Shiva's devotee (F.A.D.)