1-1.Abundant Nature, Vibrant Life
Southern India, being closer to the equator, is not as cold in winter as Śākyamuni’s homeland in northern India. Its climate remains warm and humid throughout the year, especially during the summer monsoons that bring heavy rains and nurture the soil for all forms of life to thrive. Vibrant, meandering vines and plants, coupled with mythical creatures of legend, are frequent motifs in southern Indian art, symbolizing nature’s richness. Even with the advent of Buddhism, these life-affirming motifs retained their significance in southern Indian art.