The world renowned temple town of Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh designated by
UNESCO as a world heritage site for its archaeological and historical monuments.The
Khajuraho temples were built in the short span of a hundred years, from 950-1050AD
in a truly inspired burst of creativity. Of the 85 original temples, 22 have
survived till today to constitute one of the world's great artistic wonders.
The Creators of Khajuraho claimed descent from the moon and the legend behind
the founding of this great dynasty and the temples is a fascinating one. Hemwati,
the lovely young daughter of a Brahmin priest, was seduced by the moon-god while
bathing in a forest pool. The child born of this union was Chandravarman, founder
of the Chandela dynasty. Brought up in the forests by his mother who sought
refuge from a sensorious society, Chandravarman, when established as a ruler,
had a dream-visitation from his mother.
It is said that she implored him to build temples that would reveal human passions,
and in doing so, bring about a realization of the emptiness of human desire.
It is also possible that the Chandelas were followers of the Tantric cult, which
believes that gratification of earthly desires is a step towards attaining the
infinite liberation of nirvana.
Why they chose Khajuraho, even then a small village, as the site for their great
complex is also open to of their faith and the many beliefs represented in the
temples, the Chandelas conceived Khajuraho as a seat of religion and learning,
to bring together many sects
