The correct option is Upper right hand.
Explanation
The Nataraja sculpture, primarily associated with the Chola period bronze casting tradition, depicts Lord Shiva as the "Lord of Dance." The iconography represents the cosmic cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction (the Ananda Tandava).Detailed Analysis of Iconography:
- Upper Right Hand: Holds the Damaru (a small drum). This symbolizes Creation (Shrishti) through the primal sound (Nada), from which the universe emanates.
- Upper Left Hand: Holds Agni (fire). This symbolizes Destruction (Samhara) or the dissolution of the universe.
- Lower Right Hand: Held in the Abhaya Mudra (gesture of fearlessness). This symbolizes Protection (Sthiti) and assurance to the devotee.
- Lower Left Hand: Points downwards towards the raised left foot. This symbolizes Liberation (Moksha) or grace (Anugraha), indicating the path to salvation.
Key Takeaway:
In the Nataraja iconography, the dynamic balance of the cosmos is represented by the Damaru (Creation) in the upper right hand and Agni (Destruction) in the upper left hand.