Question

Why is Bodhisattva made larger than life in comparison to other human forms surrounding by him?

Hint:

In Indian art, size shows importance and not real height.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
In the Ajanta painting the Bodhisattva is drawn much bigger than the people around him. We must give the reason.

Step 2: Symbolic use of size:
In traditional Indian art, size is often used symbolically rather than realistically. A bigger figure means a more important figure.

Step 3: Reason for the larger figure:
The Bodhisattva is made larger than life to emphasise his spiritual importance and divine status.
The larger scale highlights his superiority, wisdom and compassion. It also shows that he is the central focus of the composition.

Step 4: Effect on the viewer:
By showing him in a bigger form, the artist draws the viewer's attention to him. It also conveys his elevated position as an enlightened being who guides and protects humanity.

Final Answer:
He is shown larger to stress his spiritual importance and to make him the central focus. \[\boxed{\text{To show spiritual importance, divine status and focus}}\]