33
Plane of fragrance
(gandha-loka)
Gandha means smell, and the sense of smell is linked with the earth and the physical plane. Once the player reaches the fourth level, however, the nature of the sense is transmuted and becomes the symbol of the Divine, carrying a strong emotional impact. In the course of sudharma the devotee offers scents to the deity, in the form of either flowers or incense. Thus the fourth chakra contains the plane of fragrance, gandha-loka.
In the first chakra, odors like petroleum, paraffin, and alcohol attract the player. In the second chakra he is stimulated by strong-smelling synthetic preparations. In the third chakra these same artificial scents predominate, but they are now far more costly. When he reaches the plane of balance he realizes the futility of the inorganic, and avoids pungent, artificial odors.
Here in gandha-loka he experiences divine fragrances in his meditation. The evolution of energy effects a change in body chemistry, and his organism ceases to produce bad odors, exuding instead a fragrance not unlike that of lotus flowers or sandalwood.
As a measure of understanding, the sadhak (devotee) is asked to stop the use of artificial scents on his body so that he comes to know his own odors. When his body stops smelling bad, and when his stool, sweat, and breath produce no bad odors, he knows his energy has transcended the third chakra and entered into the plane of fragrance.
Now there are only divine odors. Once and for all. the player has eliminated bad odors from his system.
The artwork beautifully captures the essence of the "Plane of Fragrance" (Gandha-loka), symbolizing the divine transformation of the sense of smell. In the center, a figure in a meditative state represents the player who has reached Gandha-loka, immersed in experiencing divine fragrances.
Surrounding the figure are ethereal representations of fragrant elements like lotus flowers and sandalwood. These elements illustrate the player's spiritual journey from the mundane physical odors to sublime, spiritual scents. The serene and harmonious background reflects the peaceful nature of this plane.
Integrated visual elements such as flowers, incense, and subtle fragrance trails emphasize the evolution of the sense of smell from the mundane to the divine. The overall mood of tranquility and spiritual elevation highlights the player's journey as they transcend the physical realm and embrace the divine fragrances in their meditation, signifying their spiritual advancement and transformation.