Indian History and World History (Part-9)

There are about 85 temples in Khajuraho which were built and devoted to Vishnu, Shiva, Shakta and Jain Tirthankaras.

These temples were built between 950-1050 AD. Kandariya Mahadev Temple is the best among the temples here.

They are best known for their patronage of art and architecture, especially the Khajuraho Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

There are about 85 temples in Khajuraho which were built and devoted to Vishnu, Shiva, Shakta and Jain Tirthankaras.

These temples are world-famous for their intricate sculptures, Nagara-style architecture, and especially for their sensual and erotic carvings that symbolize life, spirituality, and human passion.

Famous Temples in Detail:

Kandariya Mahadeva Temple was built by King Vidyadhara, a powerful ruler of the Chandela dynasty, around 1025–1050 CE.

Highlights:

• The temple name “Kandariya” means “The Great God of the Cave”, a reference to Lord Shiva.

• It is the largest and most ornate temple in the Khajuraho complex.

• The temple has a central shikhara (spire) rising about 30.5 meters high.

• It symbolizes Mount Meru, the mythical center of the universe in Hindu cosmology.

• The temple’s walls have over 800 sculptures, including divine figures, apsaras, and erotic art.

The Bhitargaon Temple is a terraced brick building fronted with a terracotta panel. Built-in the 6th century during the Gupta Empire.

It was built by the ruler of Kampuchea (present-day Cambodia), Suryavarman II, at his capital Yashodhargpur (present-day Angkor), in the early 12th century.

This Dravidian style temple dedicated to Vishnu, is the largest Hindu temple group in the world.

These were famous by the name of Rajarajeshwar or Brihadeshwar, and were built during the period of Rajaraja-I. These temples are the best example of the Dravidian style among the temples of India.

These were famous by the name of Rajarajeshwar or Brihadeshwar, and were built during the period of Rajaraja-I. These temples are the best example of the Dravidian style among the temples of India.