Lakshmana temple

Madhya Pradesh , , Bhopal

One of the earliest temples in Khajuraho, the Lakshmana temple is dedicated to Vaikunta Vishnu. It is also one of the most exquisitely decorated, covered almost completely with images of over 600 gods in the Hinduism. The temple was built between 930-950 AD by the King Yasovarman of the Chandela Dynasty. It is believed that Yashovarman took the idol from the Pratihara, overlord of the region. Some studies indicate that the current idol, while indeed a form of Vaikuntha, is not in fact the original image which Yashovarman took from the Pratihara ruler.

Legend

The folklore of the origin of Khajuraho revolves around Hemvati who was the beautiful daughter of Hemraj, the royal priest of Kashi. It is believed that the Moon God, taken in by her beauty, descended to earth in human form and ravished her. Hemvati, who was a child widow, threatened to curse the god for ruining her life. To make amends Moon god promised that she would become the mother of a valiant son. He also asked her to go to to Khajujupura where the son would become the King and build numerous temples. The child, Chandravarman, later became the King and true to his father's words built many shrines of architectural wonder. He was the head of the Chandela clan. His successors of the clan continued to build beautiful temples at Khajuraho. After fall of Chandella dynasty, Khajuraho Temples suffered destruction by foreign invaders which forced local people to leave the area. From about 13th century to 18th century, Khajuraho temples remained in obscurity until it was re-discovered by British engineer T. S. Burt.

Architecture

The Lakshmana Temple is an excellent example of Nagara style Hindu temple architecture. It is a magnificent structure and an architectural marvel. The entire temple complex stands on a high platform. It has entrance porch (ardh-mandapa), Mandapa, Maha-Mandapa, Antarala and Garbhagriha. The main shrine of the temple, is flanked by four smaller shrines at the corners of the temple platform. Main image is of tri-headed & four-armed sculpture of Vaikuntha Vishnu. The central head is of human, and two sides are of boar (depicting Varaha) and lion (depicting Narshima). It is one of the most exquistely carved and sculpted temples of Khajuraho, covered almost completely with images of over 600 gods. The intricately carved sculptures all over the exterior wall of the temple. The temple is also famous for the explicitly erotic and sexual carvings on the southern side of the temple.

Darsan Info

There is an entrance fee to the western group of temples temple -Rs 10 for Indians and Rs 250 for foreigners. The ticket price for the light and sound show are- Rs. 75 for adults and Rs. 25 for children (Indians)/Rs. 300 for adults and Rs. 150 for children (Foreigners)

Darsan Dresscode

Devotees are advised to wear clean and conservative attire.

Culture

Khajuraho is one of the most popular tourist spots in Madhya Pradesh. It is famous for its ancient temples that depict some of the finest art and architecture in the world.