Among the relics excavated from Harappa, historians have frequently identified a three-headed figure as “Three-Headed Pashupatideva.” However, a closer examination of traditional scriptures reveals that this three-headed deity is actually Rudrajvara (or Maheshwarajvara), an attendant and manifestation of Lord Rudra who governs physical ailments and diseases.
While images of single-headed Rudra and three-headed figures both exist in Harappan relics, the Linga Purana, Shiva Purana, and the Namaka Mantras do not describe Lord Rudra Himself as three-headed in this specific context. Therefore, attributing the three-headed form to Rudrajvara—the controller of diseases—and the single-headed form to Lord Rudra provides a natural and scripturally accurate interpretation.
The identity of the three-headed Maheshwarajvara is highlighted during the legendary battle between Sri Krishna and Banasura, where Lord Rudra stood in support of Banasura:
Maheshwarajvara: During the conflict, Maheshwarajvara—depicted specifically as having three heads and three feet—was summoned to fight Sri Krishna.
Vaishnavajvara: In response, Sri Krishna released Vaishnavajvara to counteract Maheshwarajvara.
Surrender: Maheshwarajvara was defeated by Vaishnavajvara, ultimately seeking refuge and taking shelter at the feet of Sri Krishna.
“This sacred narrative is recorded in detail in the Harivamsa as well as in the Srimad-Bhagavatam (Canto 10, Chapter 63).”
[ Devotee's Intense Upasana ] ──► [ Attains Sarupya Mukti ] ──► [ Assumes Form & Power of Deity ]
(Three-Headed Controller of Diseases)
Sarupya Mukti (Form Liberation): Among the four types of liberation (Salokya, Samipya, Sarupya, Sayujya), Sarupya Mukti grants the devotee a divine form similar to that of their revered deity. Through intense devotion to Lord Rudra, an exalted entity attained a form resembling Rudra’s divine attributes and was entrusted with authority over ailments as the controller of diseases.
Invocations in Mahanyasa: Because Rudrajvara governs diseases and health, Maharshi Bodhayana emphasizes in his Mahanyasa Khanda that anyone seeking relief from illness and desiring vibrant health should propitiate Lord Rudra along with the recitation of Mahanyasa.
| Archaeological Feature | Historical Misconception | Correct Scriptural Identification |
| Three-Headed Figure | “Three-headed Pashupati Shiva” | Rudrajvara / Maheshwarajvara (Controller of Diseases and Assistant to Rudra) |
| Single-Headed Figure | Unspecified / Horned Deity | Lord Rudra / Shiva (as described in the Namaka and Puranas) |
Revisiting these artifacts through the lens of authentic Vedic and Puranic literature clears long-standing historical oversights. Understanding the three-headed figure as Rudrajvara aligns seamlessly with Vedic iconography, Puranic history, and the healing traditions preserved in scripture.