Pasupati

 Pasupati 

Pasupati is a significant figure in the religion and iconography of the Indus Valley Civilization. Pasupati is believed to be an early form of the Hindu god Shiva and is often depicted as a three-faced figure surrounded 

by animals, including elephants, tigers, and bulls.

The name "Pasupati" is derived from the Sanskrit words "pasu," meaning animal, and "pati," meaning lord  or master. This has led many scholars to interpret Pasupati as a god of animals, particularly of domesticated 

animals such as cattle.

In the Harappan Civilization, the figure of Pasupati is often associated with the archaeological remains of large bath complexes, which some scholars interpret as evidence of ritual bathing and purification practices. 

The depiction of Pasupati in the Indus Valley Civilization suggests that the religious traditions of the region  had strong connections with early forms of Hinduism and that some of these beliefs and practices may have 

continued into later periods of Indian history.

The steatite (also known as soapstone) is a type of soft rock that is composed mainly of talc, a mineral that gives it a soapy feel. Steatite was a common material used for carving in the Indus Valley Civilization, and many artifacts and sculptures have been found made from it, including the famous statue of Pasupati.

The statue of Pasupati, also known as the "Lord of the Animals," is made from steatite and is one of the most significant and well-known artifacts of the Indus Valley Civilization. This statue is a depiction of a three-faced male figure with horns, surrounded by various animals such as elephants, tigers, and bulls. The use of steatite for this statue was likely due to its softness and ease of carving, allowing for intricate details to be added to the sculpture.

The use of steatite for the Pasupati statue and other artifacts from the Indus Valley Civilization shows the advanced craftsmanship and technical skills of the people who lived during that time period. Additionally, it provides insight into the availability of natural resources and the trade networks that existed in the region during that era.