Kamandalu, kamandal, or kamandalam is an oblong water pot, originating from the Indian subcontinent, made of a dry gourd (pumpkin) or coconut shell, metal, wood of the Kamandalataru tree, or from clay, usually with a handle and sometimes with a spout. Hindu ascetics or yogis often use it for storing drinking water. The water-filled kamandalu, which is invariably carried by ascetics, is stated to represent a simple and self-contained life.
A brass kamandalu, held by a sadhu.
Brahma holding a kamandalu in his right hand
A sadhu (ascetic) with a kamandalu to his right
Brahma is a Hindu god, referred to as "the Creator" within the Trimurti, the trinity of supreme divinity that includes Vishnu and Shiva. He is associated with creation, knowledge, and the Vedas. Brahma is prominently mentioned in creation legends. In some Puranas, he created himself in a golden embryo known as the Hiranyagarbha.
A 17th century painting of Brahma on a Hamsa
An early depiction of Brahma, on the Bimaran casket, early 1st century CE. British Museum.
Sculpture of Brahma in Prambanan, Java Indonesia
Sculpture of Brahma flanked by Yama and Chitragupta, Tamil Nadu, 10th century