Gajasimha Explained

The gajasimha or gajasiha (from Sanskrit: gaja+siṃha|script=Latn / Pali: gaja+sīha|script=Latn) is a mythical hybrid animal in Hindu mythology, appearing as a sinha or rajasiha (mythical lion) with the head or trunk of an elephant. It is found as a motif in Indian and Sinhalese art,[1] and is used as a heraldic symbol in some Southeast Asian countries, especially Cambodia and Thailand. In Siam (pre-modern Thailand), the gajasimha served as the symbol of the kalahom, one of the king's two chief chancellors. It appears as a supporter in the coat of arms of Siam, in use from 1873 to 1910, and the royal arms of Cambodia, officially adopted in 1993.

Gallery

In heraldry

See also

Notes and References

  1. Book: Bane . Theresa . Encyclopedia of beasts and monsters in myth, legend and folklore . 2016 . McFarland . 9780786495054 . 132.