Khajuraho

A remarkable architectural movement had swept through their reign dotting the landscape of Mahoba, Kalinjar and Ajaygarh with palaces, tanks and temples. But It was at Khajuraho that the Chandella kings reached the zenith of their creativity.

Though its erotic sculptures overwhelm visitors, they account for just two per cent of the carvings, mostly in the Shiva temples. They embody the tantric philosophy of having to transmute sexual energy into pure spirituality, for attaining union with the divine.

Along with temples dedicated to Lord Vishu and Lord Shiva are shrines devoted to the Jain Tirthankaras. Constructed as per Vastu Shastra, most temples face east and the first rays of the sun fall on the feet of the main deity in the sanctum sanctorum rousing deep feelings of divinity.

Raghu Rai