Khajuraho Temple is a group of Hindu and Jain temples situated in Chhatarpur district in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. The Khajuraho group of temples was built during the Chandela dynasty between the 10th and 12th centuries. The temples are known for their exquisite and intricate carvings that depict various aspects of Indian life, including mythology, gods and goddesses, animals, and humans.
There are a total of 25 temples at Khajuraho, out of which only 20 are still standing. The temples are divided into three geographical groups – the Western Group, the Eastern Group, and the Southern Group. The Western Group of temples is the most well-known and comprises 14 temples, including the Kandariya Mahadev Temple, Lakshmana Temple, and Vishvanatha Temple.
The Khajuraho temples are known for their exquisite stone carvings, which are considered some of the finest examples of Indian art. The carvings depict a range of subjects, including gods and goddesses, musicians, dancers, animals, and erotic scenes. The erotic carvings have garnered much attention over the years, and their presence has led to the temples being labeled as the “Kamasutra temples”.
The Kandariya Mahadev Temple is the largest and most ornate temple in the Western Group. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features a towering shikhara, or spire, that rises to a height of 31 meters. The temple is covered in intricate carvings, which include images of gods and goddesses, musicians, dancers, and erotic scenes.
The Lakshmana Temple is another significant temple in the Western Group. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and features a beautiful sculpture of the four-armed deity. The temple is also known for its intricate carvings, which include images of elephants, lions, and other animals.
The Eastern Group of temples is located on the outskirts of the town of Khajuraho and consists of a total of seven temples, including the Parsvanatha Temple, Ghantai Temple, and Adinatha Temple. The Parsvanatha Temple is the largest temple in the Eastern Group and is dedicated to Jain Tirthankara Parsvanatha. The temple is known for its beautiful carvings, which depict scenes from Jain mythology.
The Southern Group of temples is located about 5 km from the main Khajuraho complex and consists of two temples – the Duladeo Temple and the Chaturbhuj Temple. The Duladeo Temple is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its intricate carvings, which include images of gods and goddesses, musicians, dancers, and erotic scenes.
The Khajuraho temples are not only significant for their exquisite stone carvings but also for their historical and cultural importance. The temples are considered to be one of the finest examples of Hindu and Jain architecture and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temples are also a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world.
In recent years, the Khajuraho temples have been facing challenges due to pollution and neglect. The government and local authorities have taken steps to preserve the temples and maintain their heritage value. The temples are now protected by the Archaeological Survey of India, which is responsible for their conservation and restoration.
In conclusion, the Khajuraho temples are a magnificent example of ancient Indian architecture and art. The intricate stone carvings that adorn the temples are a testament to the skill and creativity of the artisans who built them. The temples are not only an important cultural and historical site but also a major tourist attraction.
