The Khajuraho Group of Monuments, located in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, stands as a testament to the zenith of medieval Indian architecture and the vibrant cultural ethos of the Chandela dynasty. These temples are renowned for their intricate sculptures and architectural grandeur, which reflect a unique blend of spirituality and eroticism, making them a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant landmark in India’s historical and cultural landscape.
The Khajuraho temples were built between 950 and 1050 AD during the rule of the Chandela dynasty. The Chandelas, who ruled central India, were known for their patronage of the arts and architecture. According to historical records, the construction of these temples began under King Yashovarman and continued under his successors, particularly King Dhanga. By the time the construction ceased, around 85 temples had been built, though only about 20 remain today.
The temples were originally spread over an area of approximately 20 square kilometers but now occupy an area of around 6 square kilometers. The decline of the Chandela dynasty and subsequent political changes led to the abandonment of these temples, and they were gradually forgotten until their rediscovery in the 19th century by British surveyor T.S. Burt.
Khajuraho’s temples are masterpieces of Indian architecture, showcasing a variety of styles and techniques. They are primarily constructed using sandstone, with precise jointing and no mortar used in the construction. The temples can be categorized into three groups: the Western, Eastern, and Southern groups, each containing temples dedicated to Hindu and Jain deities.
The layout of the temples follows the traditional Vastu Shastra principles, with a central sanctum (garbhagriha), a circumambulatory path (pradakshina path), and an assembly hall (mandapa). The temples are built on high platforms (jagati) and are adorned with intricately carved sculptures depicting various aspects of life and mythology.
The sculptures of Khajuraho are a remarkable blend of the divine and the sensual. They are famous for their explicit erotic art, which has often overshadowed their other artistic achievements. However, these erotic sculptures constitute only a small portion of the overall carvings. The majority of the sculptures depict everyday life, gods and goddesses, mythical creatures, and celestial beings.
The erotic sculptures are often interpreted as symbolic of the Tantric traditions, emphasizing the interdependence of the spiritual and the physical. These sculptures are located in specific sections of the temples, reflecting the progression from the earthly realm to the spiritual one.
The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is the largest and most ornate temple in Khajuraho, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It stands as a pinnacle of the Chandela architecture, with its towering spire (shikhara) rising to a height of 31 meters. The temple is adorned with over 800 sculptures, each exquisitely carved, depicting deities, celestial nymphs (apsaras), musicians, dancers, and erotic couples (mithunas). The central sanctum houses a Shiva lingam, symbolizing the cosmic energy of the deity.
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Lakshmana Temple is one of the earliest and best-preserved temples in Khajuraho. It is known for its symmetrical design and intricate carvings. The temple’s exterior walls are covered with sculptures of gods, goddesses, and celestial beings, while the interior features detailed reliefs of various mythological scenes, including the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan).
The Vishvanatha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is another architectural marvel of Khajuraho. The temple is noted for its elaborate carvings and its large Nandi (bull) statue facing the sanctum. The exterior walls are adorned with sculptures of deities, animals, and mythical creatures, showcasing the artistic prowess of the Chandela sculptors.
The Devi Jagadambi Temple, initially dedicated to Lord Vishnu and later associated with the goddess Parvati, is known for its intricate sculptures and its relatively smaller size. The temple’s sanctum houses a striking image of the goddess Devi, and its exterior walls are adorned with various carvings, including erotic scenes.
The Chitragupta Temple is unique in Khajuraho for being dedicated to Surya, the Sun God. The temple’s sanctum features a magnificent sculpture of Surya driving his chariot, pulled by seven horses. The exterior walls are decorated with carvings of celestial beings, warriors, and scenes from daily life.
The Khajuraho temples are not just architectural wonders but are also rich in symbolism and spiritual significance. The juxtaposition of erotic and divine imagery has led to various interpretations over the years.
One of the prevailing theories is that the erotic sculptures represent Tantric practices, which view sexual union as a means to achieve spiritual enlightenment. Tantrism emphasizes the unity of opposites and the balance between the physical and the spiritual. The presence of these sculptures in the temples could be seen as a reflection of this philosophy, symbolizing the interconnectedness of earthly desires and divine aspirations.
Another interpretation suggests that the sculptures celebrate the fullness of life and the joy of human existence. The depictions of music, dance, love, and eroticism highlight the Chandelas’ appreciation for the arts and the pleasures of life. This celebration of life, in all its forms, underscores the holistic approach of Hindu philosophy, where all aspects of existence are revered and embraced.
The sculptures also provide a glimpse into the social and cultural milieu of the Chandela period. The detailed carvings of everyday activities, such as cooking, hunting, and playing musical instruments, offer valuable insights into the lives of people during that era. The depiction of various professions, rituals, and festivals reflects the vibrant and diverse society of the time.
The temples of Khajuraho were largely forgotten and overgrown by the forest until their rediscovery in the 19th century by British surveyor T.S. Burt. Since then, they have been the subject of extensive archaeological study and conservation efforts. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has played a crucial role in preserving and restoring these temples, ensuring that their architectural and cultural legacy is maintained for future generations.
Today, Khajuraho is one of India’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting visitors from around the world. The temples are celebrated for their architectural brilliance and artistic mastery. The annual Khajuraho Dance Festival, held against the backdrop of the illuminated temples, showcases classical Indian dance forms and draws performers and audiences from across the globe.
The Khajuraho Group of Monuments stands as a timeless testament to the artistic, architectural, and cultural achievements of medieval India. These temples, with their intricate carvings and profound symbolism, offer a unique glimpse into the spiritual and social fabric of the Chandela dynasty. As masterpieces of human creativity, the Khajuraho temples continue to inspire awe and admiration, embodying the enduring legacy of India’s rich cultural heritage.