History
Khajuraho, a city in Chhatarpur district, Madhya Pradesh, India, is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples, celebrated for their intricate and erotic sculptures. Once the capital of the Chandela dynasty, the temples were built between 950 and 1050 CE. The town's ancient name, Kharjuravahaka, derives from the Sanskrit word 'kharjur' meaning date palm. Today, Khajuraho is a major tourist destination, considered one of the 'seven wonders' of India.
Overview
Khajuraho is a city in the Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is famous for the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a collection of medieval Hindu and Jain temples known for their architectural grandeur and erotic sculptures. The temples, built by the Chandela dynasty between 950 and 1050 CE, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986. The town's name anciently was Kharjuravahaka, derived from the Sanskrit word 'kharjur' meaning date palm. Khajuraho is one of India's most popular tourist destinations and is considered one of the 'seven wonders' of India.
Historical Timeline
Reign of Chandela King Harsha, earliest temples built at Khajuraho.
Marks the beginning of temple construction at Khajuraho, establishing it as a religious center.
Peak of temple construction under Chandela rulers Yashovarman and Dhanga.
Most of the surviving temples, including the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, were built during this period, showcasing the zenith of Chandela art and architecture.
Decline of the Chandela dynasty and abandonment of Khajuraho.
The temples fell into disuse and were gradually obscured by forest, leading to their isolation and preservation.
Rediscovery of Khajuraho temples by British surveyor T.S. Burt.
Brought the temples to the attention of the modern world, leading to restoration and scholarly study.
UNESCO designates Khajuraho Group of Monuments as a World Heritage Site.
Recognizes the global cultural and historical importance of the temples, boosting tourism and conservation efforts.
First Khajuraho Dance Festival held.
Established an annual cultural event that promotes Indian classical dance and attracts international visitors.
Historical Sites
Kandariya Mahadeva Temple: The largest and most ornate Hindu temple in Khajuraho, dedicated to Shiva, built around 1025-1050 CE by King Vidyadhara.
Lakshmana Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, built by Chandela King Yashovarman around 930-950 CE, known for its elaborate carvings.
Vishvanatha Temple: A Shiva temple built in 999 CE by King Dhanga, featuring a marble lingam and intricate sculptures.
Parshvanatha Temple: The largest Jain temple in Khajuraho, built in the 10th century, dedicated to Parshvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara.
Chaturbhuja Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, built in 1100 CE, known for its massive 9-foot idol of Vishnu.
Notable Figures
King Harsha: Chandela ruler (c. 900-925 CE) credited with building the earliest temples at Khajuraho.
King Yashovarman: Chandela ruler (c. 925-950 CE) who commissioned the Lakshmana Temple and expanded Khajuraho's temple complex.
King Dhanga: Chandela ruler (c. 950-999 CE) who built the Vishvanatha Temple and contributed to the peak of temple construction.
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