One of the ascetics is adorned with a sacred rudraksha mala and a rudraksha armband. The rudraksha (dried stones or seeds of the Elaeocarpus ganitrus associated with Shiva iconography) holds special significance as the sacred symbol of Lord Shiva. It means ‘tears of Shiva.’ According to a legend, once when Shiva was performing penance, tears shed from his eyes and he fell to the ground. Eventually, these transformed into seeds that sprouted into a tree. Thus, this visual depiction of a Shaiva ascetic forms a profound association between the devotee and their lord.
In an alternative portrayal of the ascetic, he is depicted standing, facing slightly to his left. He has a jatabhara (matted hairdo) atop his head and a lengthy moustache. The features of his face have eroded, but two notable ones are his elongated earlobes and the rudraksha (dried stones or seeds of the Elaeocarpus ganitrus associated with Shiva iconography) armband. One of his hands clasps a pot while his fingers are delicately positioned atop it. Notably, his phallus is exposed in this depiction.
On the northern wall, there is a depiction of a surasundari (celestial damsel) an elaborate hairdo, fashioned into a bun. She stands tall and slender, bedecked with substantial jewellery. One of her hands is fractured, while the other rests near her exposed reproductive organ. It is worth noticing that both ascetic and surasundari are shown with their revealed genitalia, they both represent different natures and stand for opposite symbolism.
The portrayal of this surasundari (celestial damsel), on the northern wall, encapsulates the nurturing essence of femininity. Standing gracefully, she cradles a baby in her arms, although the faces of both mother and child are obscured. The mother has a voluptuous figure adorned with elaborate ornaments. The child is depicted holding her breast, symbolizing the bond of maternal care and sustenance.