Khajuraho is famous for its stunning temples that date back to the 10th and 12th centuries. While these temples and their intricate architecture is something that attracts tourists to this UNESCO World Heritage site, there are many secrets and stories about these temples that are not known by many. If you are someone who has an interest in art and history, it would be great for you to know about these profound insights and stories that are not just interesting but also tell so much about the life of that time. Read on to know about these secrets that are waiting to be unravelled:
The first secret is about the origin of these temples. Built by the Chandela dynasty, these temples in Khajuraho were dedicated to Hindu as well as Jain deities. They not just served as spaces for worship, but also as a platform to demonstrate art and culture. Come here and explore the exquisite sculptures that beautifully adorn the temples and depict various themes like religious narratives as well as everyday life. These sculptures give a glimpse of the social and cultural norms during the ancient time. You will not only get to see gods and goddesses, but also sculptures of dancers, musicians and farmers. It is through these sculptures that you will get a glimpse of the lives of the people who once lived in Khajuraho.
The second secret lies in the design and layout of these temples. All the beautiful temples of Khajuraho are not just randomly placed but are organized in a well- planned and thought-out manner. The western, eastern, and southern are the three geographical groups in which they are divided. Each of these groups serve as a reflection of the diverse religious beliefs that existed in the town. Visit these groups and you will notice that the eastern group focuses on simplicity, highlighting the spiritual aspect of the temples while the southern group features the various well-preserved temples dedicated to Jainism.
The third interesting thing about these temples lies in the symbolism embedded within the sculptures. The sculptures here are not mere decorative pieces but hold deeper meanings. They showcase the various aspects of life of the people at that time, right from their moral values to spiritual beliefs. You will also find erotic sculptures which are often a subject of intrigue. They are not intended to be explicit or vulgar or explicit but are seen as representation of love and fertility. Till date, these sculptures challenge societal norms and encourage acceptance and understanding.
Lastly, it must be known that many preservation and restoration efforts that been made so that we can witness the glory of Khajuraho. Over the years, nature and time had taken their toll on the temples. There were many sculptures which were damaged or eroded but thanks to the dedicated efforts of conservationists and the support of UNESCO, these temples have been precisely restored, so that the future generations can continue to appreciate their magnificence.
Now that you know so much about Khajuraho, plan your trip today and explore these lovely temples. For your stay in the town, choose any of the top resorts in Khajuraho that are known for their excellent facilities and hospitality. You are surely going to have a great time exploring the beautiful town and its temples. Besides exploring the temples, you can also visit the Archaeological Museum and attend the cultural programs to make the most of your trip.
