The Kandariya Mahadev temple of Khajuraho was built by; UPSC (Pre) GS; Exam-1991

 UPSC (Pre) GS: Paper-1 Exam-1991; 
Question: 8

The Kandariya Mahadev temple of Khajuraho was built by:

(a) Parmar 

(b) Chad

(c) Rashtrakuta 

(d) Chandel

Explanation:

The Kandariya Mahadev temple in Khajuraho is a remarkable architectural masterpiece that stands as a testament to the artistic and cultural achievements of the Chandel dynasty in medieval India. Here, let's explore the temple in more detail: Historical Significance: The Kandariya Mahadev temple is located in Khajuraho, a small town in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. It was constructed during the reign of the Chandel dynasty, which ruled over the region from the 9th to the 13th century AD. The temple is one of the most prominent structures among the group of temples in Khajuraho, known for their intricate and erotic sculptures.

Dedication to Lord Shiva: The Kandariya Mahadev temple is primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. Lord Shiva is revered as the god of destruction and transformation and holds a significant place in Hindu religious beliefs.

Architectural Style: The temple showcases the Nagara style of temple architecture, which is characterized by its towering spires or Shikharas. These spires rise majestically and are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The temple's layout follows the typical plan of Hindu temples, including a sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha), a mandapa (hall), and various other subsidiary shrines.

Intricate Sculptures: One of the most notable features of the Kandariya Mahadev temple is its exquisite and detailed sculptures. The outer walls of the temple are adorned with a profusion of intricate carvings that depict various aspects of Hindu mythology, including gods, goddesses, celestial beings, and everyday life during the Chandel dynasty period. While some of these sculptures are of an erotic nature, many others are purely religious or depict scenes from daily life.

Symbolism: The temple's architecture and sculptures are rich in symbolism. The towering Shikhara represents Mount Kailasa, believed to be Lord Shiva's celestial abode. The intricate carvings convey spiritual and philosophical concepts, and they serve as a visual representation of Hindu cosmology and mythology.

Preservation and UNESCO World Heritage Status: The Kandariya Mahadev temple, along with other temples in Khajuraho, was rediscovered and brought to the world's attention in the 19th century. These temples have been recognized for their historical and cultural significance and were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. Efforts have been made to preserve and protect these temples from environmental and human-induced damage.

Tourist Attraction: Today, the Kandariya Mahadev temple is a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the world who come to admire its architectural beauty and historical significance. It stands as a symbol of India's rich cultural heritage and architectural excellence.

Chandel dynasty:

The Chandel dynasty was a prominent medieval Indian dynasty that ruled over the region of Bundelkhand in central India. Here are some key details and historical aspects of the Chandel dynasty:

Origin: The Chandel dynasty is believed to have originated in the 9th century AD and rose to prominence in the Bundelkhand region, which includes parts of modern-day Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. The dynasty's early origins are somewhat obscure, but they gained power and recognition over time.

Capital: The Chandel dynasty's capital was Khajuraho, which is now famous for its group of stunning temples, including the Kandariya Mahadev temple. These temples are renowned for their exquisite architecture and intricate sculptures and are considered UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Religion: The Chandel rulers were known for their patronage of Hinduism. They built numerous Hindu temples, including the aforementioned temples at Khajuraho, which are dedicated to various Hindu deities. The dynasty's devotion to Hinduism is evident in the religious themes depicted in the temple sculptures.

Art and Culture: The Chandel dynasty is particularly celebrated for its contributions to art and culture. The temples they built are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures that depict various aspects of Hindu mythology, daily life, and erotica. These sculptures are considered some of the finest examples of Indian temple art from that era. Rulers and Expansion: The dynasty had a series of rulers, and one of the most notable Chandel kings was Yashovarman. Under his rule, the Chandel dynasty expanded its territory and influence. He is also credited with initiating the construction of several temples in Khajuraho.

Decline: Like many medieval Indian dynasties, the Chandel dynasty faced challenges from external invasions and internal conflicts. By the 13th century, the dynasty had weakened, and their power began to decline. The exact reasons for their decline are complex and likely involve a combination of factors, including external invasions by the Delhi Sultanate. Legacy: Despite their eventual decline, the Chandel dynasty left a lasting legacy through their architectural and cultural contributions. The temples at Khajuraho remain iconic, drawing tourists and art enthusiasts from around the world. These temples are not only a testament to the Chandel dynasty's devotion to Hinduism but also serve as a vivid representation of India's rich cultural and artistic heritage.

In summary, the Kandariya Mahadev temple in Khajuraho, built by the Chandel dynasty which was a medieval Indian dynasty known for its patronage of Hinduism, cultural contributions, and the construction of magnificent temples at Khajuraho. They played a significant role in shaping the artistic and architectural landscape of the Bundelkhand region and continue to be celebrated for their legacy in Indian history. Its intricate sculptures, dedication to Lord Shiva, and historical significance make it a prominent landmark in the world of art and architecture.