Khajuraho – A Haven To Exotic Indo-Aryan Architecture
India is home to several important monuments and palaces across the globe. She houses one of the most magnificent and plausibly gorgeous group of temples namely, the Khajuraho. Created by the Chandela dynasty in 950 AD, the Khajuraho showcases the unique Indo-Aryan architecture.
The Chandela dynasty’s penchant for the hidden, mysterious, forbidden is aptly reflected in the lyrical and poetic expressionism that are reflected in the Khajuraho temples. The 100 years of constant dedication towards its creation gave birth to 85 amazingly constructed and richly carved temples, depicting Kama Sutra.
The Temples In Khajuraho
Chandravarman who is believed to be raised by his mother in the forests was the one to start the Chandela dynasty and the construction of the first temple in Khajuraho complex, and later followed by the successive rulers of this dynasty.
Amongst the 85 temples, only 22 are present in their intact shape, and have been divided into three groups, namely the Eastern group, Southern and Western Group of Khajuraho. The Western group of temples are always open from sunrise to sunset and provides a rich glimpse of the unique architecture and rock carving heritage of ancient India.
The Western Part—At A Glance!
In the western group you will find a Devi Jagdambi temple, dedicated to Devi or goddess Jagdambi is believed to be the most visited amongst all. Being relatively smaller than the others in the complex, this is a highly proportioned temple and houses a huge image of Devi in the Garbha Griha. Another extraordinary view within the Western group can be seen in the Lakhmana temple.
Besides, you will find a plethora of horizontal structures above the entrance that shows a unique view of Hindu trinity depicting Brahma, Lakshmi, Shiva and Vishnu. The Chaunsat Yogini is the sole granite temple in this group, whereas, the Kandariya Mahadeo is the one temple which highlights a cornucopia of sculptures all related to masterpieces included in the ancient Indian art. Other temples in the western group include Varaha, Chitragupta, Vishwanath, and Matanageswara temples.
The Southern Group
The southern group presently showcases 3 temples in its original shape, amongst which the Jatkari temple erected in 1100 AD is highly eminent. The special highlight of Jatkari is the 9 feet tall, intricately carved idol of Lord Vishnu dressed in Chaturbhuja. Other two temples in the Southern group are Dulhadev and the Beejamandal temples both dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The Eastern Part of Khajuraho
The Eastern Group of Khajuraho houses the famous Parsvnath temple, which is believed to be the largest amongst all others in the entire complex. A specialty of the eastern group is the Jain temple or the Ghantai housing a fresco portraying the legendary 16 dreams of Mahavira’s mother and a winged Garuda showcasing the image of an ancient Jain goddess.
The simplest amongst all temples, known for its minimal yet delicate architecture is the Vamana temple. This temple is situated in a secluded zone away from all others in the complex, and has been dedicated to the dwarf form of Lord Vishnu. Dedicated to Adinath or the famous Jain Tirthankar is the Adinath temple decorated with sculpted figurines and lavish embellishments. Others in the eastern group include Javari temple, Brahma temple and the Hanuman temple.
While Travelling to India, Visit Khajuraho with any Golden Triangle Tour or with Rajatshan Tour. The luxury Train Maharajas Express also coveres Khajuraho in its travel plan.
