Page 242 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - India

240  CENTR AL INDIA

6 Khajuraho: Kandariya Mahadev Temple

The magnificent group of temples at Khajuraho,
a UNESCO World Heritage Site, were built between
the 9th and 10th centuries by the Chandela dynasty
that dominated Central India at that time. The most
impressive of the temples is the Kandariya Mahadev,
which represents the pinnacle of North Indian temple
art and architecture. It is remarkable for its grand
dimensions, its complex yet perfectly harmonious
composition, and its exquisite sculptural embellishment.
Over 800 sculptures cover the temple, depicting gods
and goddesses, beasts and warriors, sensuous maidens,
dancers, musicians and, of course, the erotic scenes
for which the Khajuraho temples are famous.

The Kandariya Mahadev temple, built
. Apsaras 1025–1050
Often carved as support-
bracket figures, the
celestial nymphs reveal
the sculptors’ mastery
of the female form.
Full of natural charm
and sensuous grace,
they are shown as dancers,
attendants of the deities,
or simply engaged in
everyday activities.

KEY
1 The Ardha Mandapa or
east-facing entrance porch has an
exquisite makara torana (ceremonial
arch) flanked by two crocodile heads,
and covered with floral tracery.
2 The Maha Mandapa features
carved pillars, nymph-brackets,
a corbelled ceiling and balconied
windows, which add to the
sumptuousness of the central
hall’s interior.
3 The first tier above the terrace
is carved with processional friezes
and goddesses.

For hotels and restaurants in this region see pp696–7 and p710

240-241_EW_India.indd 240 26/04/17 11:44 am
Eyewitness Travel LAYERS PRINTED:
Starsight template “UK” LAYER
(Source v2.7)
Date 24th April 2013
Size 125mm x 217mm