Green Tara Statues | Mother of Liberation — Handmade in Nepal

Green Tara Statue Symbolism and Meaning

Green Tara, known as Jetsun Dolma in Tibetan and Khadiravani in Sanskrit, is regarded as the swift protector among the Twenty-One Taras and one of the most widely practiced female Bodhisattvas in Tibetan Buddhism. She is traditionally depicted in lalitasana, the "royal ease" posture, with one leg extended toward the ground - a gesture said to represent her readiness to step forward and respond immediately to the suffering of beings. Her left hand often holds the stem of an utpala (blue lotus), a symbol of purity and spiritual unfolding, while her right hand forms the varada mudra, the gesture of generosity.

In Tibetan Buddhist practice, Green Tara is invoked for protection from fear, obstacles, and danger, and her practice is closely associated with compassion expressed through action. A Green Tara statue is a common choice for practitioners beginning or deepening a Tara practice, as well as for anyone seeking a figure of active compassion for a home shrine or meditation space. For a broader look at these symbols, see our guides to Buddha statue meaning and the Buddhist pantheon.

Materials, Sizes, and Finishes

Our Green Tara statues are handcrafted in Patan, in the Kathmandu Valley, using the traditional lost wax casting method practiced by Newari artisans for generations. Each piece begins as a wax model, cast in copper and then hand-finished, with facial features, jewelry, and robe details carved or chased by hand - so no two statues are ever exactly alike.

Finishes vary by piece: some statues are fully gold gilded using traditional fire gilding, where 24K gold is fused to the copper surface for a durable, rich finish; others are partly gilded, with the face and ornaments highlighted in gold while the robes remain in copper or are hand-painted in color; and some are left with a natural oxidized or antiqued copper finish for a more understated look.

Sizes in our collection range from compact statues around 8-9 inches, suitable for a small altar or travel shrine, up to large masterpiece pieces of 24 inches or more, often set with semi-precious stones like turquoise and coral, intended as a centerpiece for a shrine room or Dharma center.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Green Tara statue represent?

Green Tara represents swift, active compassion in Tibetan Buddhism. She is traditionally invoked for protection from fear, danger, obstacles, and inner suffering. Her extended leg symbolizes readiness to rise immediately for the benefit of sentient beings, while her lotus flowers represent purity and spiritual awakening. A Green Tara statue is often chosen for meditation spaces, home shrines, and Tara practice because it expresses compassion through immediate action.

What's the difference between Green Tara and White Tara?

Green Tara is associated with swift protection, compassionate activity, and immediate response to suffering. She is usually shown in lalitasana, the posture of royal ease, with one leg extended to symbolize readiness for action. White Tara is more closely associated with longevity, healing, serenity, and long-life practice, and she is usually shown fully seated in meditation. Many practitioners keep statues of both because the two forms express complementary aspects of Tara.

What does "fire gilded" mean?

Fire gilding is a traditional Himalayan finishing technique in which 24K gold is applied to the prepared copper alloy surface and then heated so the gold bonds securely to the statue. This process is more labor-intensive than ordinary gold plating and produces a deeper, richer, and more durable finish. On Green Tara statues, fire gilding is often used on the deity's torso, crown, jewelry, lotus throne, or entire figure, depending on the style of the sculpture.

What does "Khadiravani" mean?

Khadiravani means 'she of the acacia forest' and is a traditional Sanskrit name associated with Green Tara. It refers to a form of Tara connected with forest imagery, purity, protection, and compassionate activity. Some product descriptions use the name Khadiravani Tara when referring to Green Tara, especially in more elaborate or classical forms. In this category, the term points to Green Tara's same compassionate and protective symbolism rather than a separate deity.

Are these Green Tara statues authentic and certified?

Yes. The Green Tara statues in this collection are handmade in Patan, Nepal by skilled Newar or Shakya artisans using traditional lost wax casting methods. They are cast in copper alloy and may be finished with 24K fire gilding, antiquated patina, silver-plated highlights, hand-painted details, or semi-precious stones depending on the individual statue. Each statue includes a certificate of authenticity verifying its origin, materials, and traditional craftsmanship.

How do I choose the right size for my altar?

For a personal altar, meditation shelf, or home shrine, Green Tara statues in the 8-12 inch range are often practical because they are easy to place while still providing a strong devotional presence. Statues around 14-18 inches work well as the central figure for a larger shrine or dedicated meditation room. Larger masterpiece statues of 20 inches and above are usually chosen for Dharma centers, temples, or collectors who want Green Tara to serve as the main focal point of the space.