{"id":13257,"date":"2019-10-06T08:41:59","date_gmt":"2019-10-06T03:11:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.goheritagerun.com\/?p=13257"},"modified":"2019-10-22T20:43:43","modified_gmt":"2019-10-22T15:13:43","slug":"khajuraho-places-to-visit","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.goheritagerun.com\/khajuraho-places-to-visit\/","title":{"rendered":"KHAJURAHO- Places to visit"},"content":{"rendered":"
Life, in every form and mood, has been captured in stone, testifying not only to the craftsman’s artistry but also to the extraordinary breadth of vision of the Chandela Rajputs under whose rule the temples were conceived and constructed. Khajuraho is one of the most popular tourist spots in Madhya Pradesh which is famous for its ancient temples that depict some of the finest art in the world. These temples of Khajuraho are India’s unique gift to the world, representing creativity that is perfect in execution and sublime in expression.
\nThe name Khajuraho is derived from its Sanskrit nomenclature \u2018Kharjuravahaka\u2019 which is the confluence of two Sanskrit words \u2018Kharjur\u2019 meaning date palm and \u2018Vahaka\u2019 meaning bearer. Built between 950-1050 AD by the Chandela Dynasty, these temples depict various forms like meditation, spiritual teachings, kinship, wrestling, royalty and most significantly, erotic art. The temples consist of stunning displays of fine sculptures and exceptional architectural skill, making them one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. Of the 85 original temples, 22 have survived till today to constitute one of the world’s greatest artistic wonders.<\/p>\n
There are various legends or stories regarding the history of Khajuraho and its sculptures linked to spiritual beliefs. One such legend is this that the moon always evokes romance and it is of little wonder that the descendants of the celestial moon God would build monuments that stand for love. Hemwati, the lovely young daughter of a Brahmin priest, was seduced by the moon God while bathing in a forest pool. She ran into the forests for refuge and raised her son, Chandravarman (founder of Chandela Dynasty) alone. Brought up in the forests by his mother who seeked refuge from a censorious society, Chandravarman, when established as a ruler, had a dream visitation from his mother. It is said that she implored him to build temples that would reveal human passions and in doing so bring about a realisation of the emptiness of human desire.
\nWhy was Khajuraho, a small village back then, chosen is still open to speculation but one theory that supports is given the nature of their faith in temples, the Chandelas conceived Khajuraho as a seat of learning and religion to bring together many sects. Thus, with their decline and these temples that lay forgotten for many centuries and covered by encroaching forests were rediscovered in 1830 by T.S. Burt who restored and cleaned the temples of Khajuraho that once again testify to a past glory.<\/p>\n
Based on their orientation, the temples are categorised into three groups: Western, Eastern and Southern. These temples are dedicated to several Hindu Gods and Goddesses along with deities in Jain beliefs. Among the temples that are standing till now, 6 are dedicated to Lord Shiva, 8 to Lord Vishnu, 1 each to Lord Ganesha and the Sun God, while 3 are dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras. The largest of the temples is the Kandariya Mahadeo Temple that is dedicated to the glory of lord Shiva which makes Khajuraho one of the four holy sites dedicated to the glory of Lord Shiva. Beautiful, intricate and expressive, the sculptures of the Khajuraho temples will leave you in awe and wonder.<\/p>\n
The Western side of the temples are the most popular area, which is also the richest and largest among other groups.
\n1. Khandariya Mahadeo or Mahadeva:\u00a0<\/strong> This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva is the largest of the temples in Khajuraho and was built during the rule of King Gandadeva between 1017 and 1029 CE. The elegant proportions of this building and its sculptural detailing are the most refined examples of the artistic heritage of central India. Approximately 800 sculptures are carved on the interior and exterior walls of this magnificent temple. The lintels of the sanctum and the doorjambs have rich floral carvings. Inside the sanctum stands a Shivlinga. Three bands of sculptures on the outer walls depicts Gods & Goddesses & mythical beasts. Other themes of sculpture in the temple include warriors, hunters, dancers, musicians, devotees etc.<\/p>\n