Summary: In South India the sphinx is known as purushamriga Sanskrit or purushamirukam Tamil meaning human beast It is found depicted in sculptural art in temples and palaces where it serves an purpose just as the sphinxes in other parts of the ancient world It is said by the tradition to take away the sins of the devotees when they enter a temple and to ward off evil in general It is therefore often found in a strategic position on the or temple gateway or near the entrance of the
Image Dimensions: 200 x 301
Image originally found here.