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Khajuraho's first temple, the Lakshmana Temple, was constructed by the Chandella Kings. Yashovarman, the leader of the Chandella Clan, who ruled over several territories in the Bundelkhand region, was the original patron of the temple. Once home to around 80 temples, approximately 30 remain in Khajuraho, some of which were constructed to honor Jainism's teachers. The place exudes a spiritual and artistic vibe that will captivate you.
The heart of the Lakshmana Temple is the womb chamber, a uniquely designed space with a windowless dark interior, allowing for individual and intimate worship of divine power. Unlike mosques and churches, which promote congregational worship, this temple follows a distinctive style of worship.
Climbing up the Fort - The architecture of the Temple - The Lakshmana Temple's architecture is based on the Nagara style, characterized by Vimanas or shrines and mandapas or important flat-roofed entries. The temple's shrine includes a base superstructure known as a share, best viewed from a distance.
If you are still in awe of the temple's overwhelming sculptures and dark chambers and wish to revisit some of these details, let us provide an overview.
The exterior of the Temple - The Lakshmana Temple boasts an exterior adorned with intricate carvings depicting various scenes. Among these scenes are musicians providing live entertainment for the court, creating a lively atmosphere. Couples who appear intoxicated with liquor and love are also depicted, adding to the sense of merriment.
Additionally, horse-mounted hunters can be seen pursuing their prey, showcasing a sense of adventure and excitement. Elephants engaged in a playful battle are also depicted, adding a touch of whimsy to the carvings. The carvings also show lines of soldiers on the march, suggesting a sense of military strength and order. In addition, female attendants can be seen fanning the king, adding a regal touch to the carvings. Finally, couples can be seen keeping themselves occupied in pleasures, adding a sense of sensuality to the overall depiction. Together, these carvings create a vivid and dynamic representation of the diverse and vibrant life of the time.
Strange Beliefs of the Temple - For centuries, the figure of Mithuna has been a common sight in Hindu temples and Buddhist monastic sites throughout South Asia. Some scholars believe these sensual structures are closely linked to the Kapalika tantric practices that were prevalent at Khajuraho during the Chandela dynasty. These practices included drinking wine, fish consumption, and using human skulls as drinking vessels.
There are two main styles of architecture at these sites: the Nagara style and the Dravida style. While the Dravidian style dominates the temple, visitors will also appreciate the prominence of the other style, which is more prevalent in the south. The Pitha "seat" - the base platform - is very important at Khajuraho. The Lakshmana Temple's structure is particularly noteworthy within the Khajuraho temple complex. Additionally, some of the interior details of this temple are unique compared to the surrounding temples.
