Saas-Bahu temple, Gwalior

Madhya Pradesh , Gwalior, Bhopal

A 9th century shrine, the Saas-Bahu temple, located in Gwalior, is well known for its architectural brilliance. The temple is dedicated to Sahastra-bahu, another name of the 'thousand-armed' Lord Vishnu. It was built in 1092 by King Mahipala of the Kachchhapaghata dynasty, a set of two shrines, one for his wife and the other for his daughter-in-law. Captain H. Kolar and Major J.B. Kint are believed to have restored the temple completely.

Legend

As per the legends, the wife of the king of Kachchhwaha dynasty was a devotee of Lord Vishnu while her daughter-in-law was a devotee of Lord Shiva. Thus, a temple for Lord Shiva was built adjacent to the Lord Vishnu temple. These adjacent temples are known as the Sas Bahu temple.

Architecture

The Sas Bahu temple is marked by its brilliant carvings and elaborated structure. The picturesque views of the Gwalior city from the shrine is an added highlight. Both the temples, through one smaller than the other, are similar in architecture, with the beautiful lotus carving on the roof of the larger temple. This temple has carved idols of Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva at the doorway. This temple has three entrances from three different directions. The temple initially built of limestone have been restored in parts.

Darsan Info

There is an entrance fee to the fort

Darsan Dresscode

Any comfortable dress can be worn inside the fort.

Culture

Gwalior is a major city in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. Rich in history and heritage it is famous for its forts including the Gwalior Fort built by the Tomar dynasty. Gwalior trade fair is a major tourist attraction.