Bhutadamara Vajrapani & Principal Forms
Vajrapani in the form of Bhutadamara is found in a number of different Tantra texts principally the Bhutadamara Tantra (Charya), the Vajrapanjara Tantra (Anuttarayoga and the Vajradakini Tantra (Anuttarayoga). He typically has four hands with the first pair held at the heart in the demon subduing gesture. The only difference between the first two examples are the supine forms underneath the two Vajrapanis. In the first form the figure underfoot has an elephant face. In the second form it is the regular face of a deity. The third form of Bhutadamara is unusual because he does not perform the usual demon subduing gesture which is the Bhutadamara trademark in the earlier examples, instead he holds a vajra, skullcup, banner, a bow and arrow - all in four hands. In paintings, the third form is only found in the company of Maharakta Ganapati (as the central figure).