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Duladeo Temple At
Khajuraho
The Kunwar Math
Built in circa AD 1100-1150, this Shaiva Temple, conventionally known as the temple of Duladeo or 'Kunwar
Math', stands on the left or north bank of the Khurau Nala, about a kilometre south of the Khajuraho village. It is situated about half a mile south of the Ghantai Temple and the same distance southwest of the Jain group of temples including the Parsvanath temple.
The temple faces east and consists on plan of a sanctum without ambulatory, foyer, 'maha-mandapa' and entrance porch. The sanctum is 'sapta-ratha' on plan as well as in elevation. While its 'sikhara' is of the usual developed form, clustered around by three rows of leaning half-spirelets, its 'maha-mandapa' shows some peculiarities of design and decoration.
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 a variety of sculptures inside the temple, the outer walls of the temple are decked out with three bands
of 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. Especially 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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