Why CERN, The World's Largest Physics Lab, Has A Statue Of Lord Shiva In Nataraja Pose
For centuries, Lord Shiva has been worshipped as a powerful deity in Hinduism, representing both creation and destruction. From the beginning of life to its end, the concept of Shiva is deeply rooted in the cycle of the universe. While spiritual seekers see him as the ultimate energy, some scientists have also tried to understand this concept through the lens of modern physics.
It is no surprise then, that the world's most advanced physics laboratory, CERN in Switzerland, houses a statue of Lord Shiva. This unique blend of faith and science has intrigued many across the world.
In 2004, the Government of India gifted a 2-metre-tall bronze statue of Nataraja, the dancing form of Lord Shiva, to CERN. The statue was officially unveiled on June 18 that year. For many, the presence of a religious icon in a science laboratory raised eyebrows. But CERN and several physicists offered a profound explanation for this installation.
Below the statue is a plaque quoting renowned physicist Fritjof Capra, who explored the parallels between Hindu philosophy and quantum physics in his book The Tao of Physics. He wrote: 'Thousands of years ago, Indian artists created visual images of dancing Shiva in a beautiful series of bronze statues. In our time, physicists have used the most advanced technology to portray the cosmic dance of subatomic particles. The metaphor of the cosmic dance unites ancient mythology and modern physics."
The Nataraja statue at CERN is more than a religious figure. It's a symbol of the constant energy, movement, and transformation within the universe. The dance of Shiva represents the never-ending cosmic cycle, creation, preservation, destruction, illusion, and liberation.
Fritjof Capra explains that Shiva's cosmic dance mirrors the findings of quantum field theory, where particles are continuously created and destroyed in an energy dance. According to him, 'For modern physics, Shiva's dance is the dance of subatomic matter. It is the natural dance of all existence."
Scientists Draw Inspiration from Shiva
CERN scientists and scholars have often shared how the statue of Lord Shiva serves as a source of inspiration. One researcher once said that the statue represents the ever-changing nature of the universe. During the day, when the lab is bustling with activity, Shiva's presence blends with the rhythm of life. And in the stillness of the night, it reminds researchers of the deeper truths revealed through their work.
The flaming ring (Prabhamandal) around Shiva symbolises the continuous cycle of the universe, where everything is born, exists, and dissolves.
Objections and CERN's Response
However, not everyone welcomed the installation. Some conservative Christian groups questioned why a Hindu god was placed at a European research institute. These concerns escalated especially after the 2013 discovery of the Higgs boson, nicknamed the 'God Particle'.
CERN responded by stating that India is one of its observer nations, and the statue is a symbol of multiculturalism and global collaboration. Scientists from all backgrounds work at CERN, and such symbols help foster a shared space of learning and respect.
The Deeper Meaning Behind Shiva's Dance
Each element of the Nataraja statue holds symbolic meaning:
Creation: The sound of the Damru represents the origin of the universe.
Preservation: The raised right hand in Abhaya Mudra signifies protection.
Destruction: The fire in Shiva's upper left hand reflects destruction to make way for the new.
Ego and Ignorance: The demon Apasmara crushed beneath Shiva's foot symbolises the defeat of ego and ignorance.
Liberation: His raised left leg points towards Moksha, the ultimate freedom from the cycle of birth and death.
Cosmic Cycle: The ring of fire around the statue captures the eternal rhythm of the cosmos.
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July 21, 2025, 15:23 IST
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