Mangyu Gateway Stupa: Green Tara

INDIA, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh

Located on the right of the west wall of the Mangyu Gateway Stupa, this rare mural of Green Tara is adjacent to the mural of Avalokitesvara on the left side of the same wall. Green Tara is typically depicted in a seated position, but this mural shows her standing. Tara has eight arms and wears a headdress with fluttering ribbons attached. Her upper body is covered by a red garment; her long dhoti is decorated with a diamond pattern. The eight hands hold Dharma instruments or form mudras. Tara has a nimbus and a red mandorla, and is surrounded by illustrations depicting people encountering dangers including an elephant, a snake, a tiger, and a flood. According to the Sutra on the Praise to the Twenty-One Taras, one who recites the mantra of Green Tara will remain unperturbed by the Eight Dangers. These scenes represent Tara’s protection from the Eight Dangers.