Southern Group of Temples
Dulah Deo Temple
This finest temple at Khajuraho also called Kunwar Math offers some of the choicest
sculptures especially the Shalbhanjika. It is a fully developed temple measuring
21 m by 12 m (69 ft. by 40 ft.) with the ardhamanadap, the mandapa, the maha
mandapa, the antarala and the garbha griha with no circumambulatory passage.
The ceiling of the maha mandap is a series of diminishing circles of overlapping
stones. There is an image of Shiva on the lintel of the entrance to the garbh
griha indicating that the temple was originally dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The sanctum today enshrines a shivlingam. The superstructure is in the traditional
style, with several subsidiary shikhars clustering around the central shikhara.
In this temple also, apart from the othr various sculptures inside the temple,
the outer walls of the temple are decorated with three bands f sculptres. "The
masters of Dulhadeo temple worked on a high level of inspiration", remarks
Stella Kramrisch. "Indeed, whether oe examines the 'superb grace and elegance'
of the Shalbhanjika-bracket capitals of the mahamandap, or the glory of the
breathing bodies of apsaras on the pilasters of the ardhamandapa or again the
squat forms of the living four armed ganas which provide the contrasting elements
the ugly against the lovely-the masterly touch is ever apparent.
The outside ornamentation is equally rich. Specially noteworthy are the vidyadhar
which occupy the highest of the three bands of sculptures. The images of these
wizards are carved flying singly and flying in pairs with their consorts. They
carry weapons and garlands, brandish swords, play on musical instruments, carry
dance in their hands, flight in their legs, and sentiment of detachment on their
faces. Their form is of the purest medieval cast, on the high level of serenity".
A few extra ordinary erotic couples(mathunas), including one or two of the most
embarrassing variety, provide that essential ingredient present in Khajuraho's
greater temples tha putting stamp of excellence on this temple.
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