Temples have extreme significance in India, they are considering as so pious and holy. Temples are supposed to be the dwelling place of God. But it is really brainstorming question that why some temples in India have erotic sculptures and sexual imagery?
As the temples are not just a center of rituals and congregation but lighthouses of philosophy and knowledge, thefamous Khajuraho Temples are one of them.Khajuraho is the place that is situated in the ‘heart of India Madhya Pradesh’ in the district of Chattarpura. It serves as the paradise for art lovers because it showcases the rich culture which is stoned in its ancient temples. The Khajuraho Temples are known for the intricate erotic carvings on the temple walls.
It is believed that these temples depict the four goals of Hinduism – Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha.
The Khajuraho Temples have been listed in the World Heritage Sites and is also considered in the Seven Wonders of the World. They are built on high platforms, several meters off the ground in a combination of light sandstone and granite.
The most noticeable thing about these temples is the erotic sculptures which are carved on the walls that surrounds the temple, but cannot be found inside the temple or with deities.The reasons behind the sensuous sculptures only being at the periphery of the temples that the humans need to leave their desires outside before stepping in.
The glorious temples have been exclusively constructed during the reign of Chandela during 950 AD and 1150 AD. It took around 200 years to construct these85 legendary temples surrounded by lakes and gardens, but now only 22 are left in good condition. These 22 preserved temples are not the only place of interest for tourists but the remaining temples also attracts the visitors as they are standing as interesting ruins which are ready to be explored.
The interior of the temple are spectacularly beautiful from inside as well as from the outside. The outer walled sculptures reflect the physical desire and passion of a common man, some of them carved with the floral as well as geometrical designs. The sculptures Includes the carvings of different sects like Shiva, Vaishnava or Jain Sects, Apsaras, family and associated aspects, scenes, teachers, disciples’ dancers and musicians and finally animals and beasts.
There is no archaeological evidence of Khajuraho’s exact history and stories but according to the local myths once in a fool moon night, a beautiful daughter of a Brahmin name Hemvati, was bathing in to a pool. Moon God saw her and was so dazzled by her loveliness that he could not refrain from embracing her. He promised her the son of their union. Later Hemvati blessed with a son a mighty tiger-slayer at the tender age of fifteen, and destined to found the Chandella dynasty. Then heeding to his mother’s wishes their son built 85 legendary temples.
The temples belong to 3 different geographical locations-West, East and South, Western Temples sculptures are dedicated to lord Shiva and Vishnu.Eastern Temples dedicated to Adinath but it was then offered to Lord Parsvanath.The temple of Parsvanath is the biggest and the finest temple that is situated here.Southern Temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and there are a number of sculptures and figurines of Lord Vishnu that have been carved out wood.
So plan your next trip to Khajuraho to savor the artistic beauty of these temples.
