In Nepal’s Katmandu Valley, ancient celebrations of the erotic decorate most temples. These aren’t demure carvings of Shiva and Parvati holding hands. Instead, these temple carvings depict just about every position, in most orifices, and sometimes multiple partners.
Why are these here? Historians haven’t pinned down a reason but there are a few theories. The most popular is that the population was getting low due to the influence of Buddhism, which encouraged abstinence. The carvings were meant to be a sort of how-to guide for baby making.
What is certain is that ancient Hinduism was pro-sex. It was not taboo and was revered as part of kama, one of the paths to escape reincarnation. This was the path of a material life, the life of the majority of the population. The most popular gods were known for the prowess in the bedroom and of course most famously is the Kama Sutra.
Know of any saucy historical tidbits or heard a sexual myth you want to know more about? Leave suggestions in the comments.
Photo used with permission from Brian McMorrow
1 comment:
Very interesting bit of info, and great art piece. I like these new daily posts.
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