Temples in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh: Nagara and Regional Traditions

Ancient Temples in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh: Nagara and Regional Traditions

The ancient temples of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh are monumental expressions of North India’s Nagara architecture and regional variations, blending spiritual devotion with technical ingenuity. Constructed by dynasties such as the Guptas, Kalachuris, Chandelas, and Panduvanshis, these temples showcase intricate sandstone and brick constructions, towering shikharas, and sophisticated structural designs that have endured centuries. This treatise explores the evolution of temple architecture and engineering in these states, emphasizing construction techniques, material science, and aesthetic principles rooted in Vastu Shastra. Ten iconic temples are analyzed for their unique contributions, supported by insights from archaeologists, historians, and engineers. From the Gupta-era Dasavatara Temple to the Kalachuri-inspired Bhoramdeo, these structures reflect a synthesis of art, science, and spirituality. Their roles as cultural and religious hubs, alongside modern preservation efforts, underscore their global significance. This note aims to illuminate the technical and cultural legacy of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh’s temples, advocating for their continued study and conservation as enduring testaments to human achievement.

 

1. Introduction

The temples of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh represent a pinnacle of North Indian temple architecture, primarily within the Nagara style, characterized by towering shikharas, intricate carvings, and raised platforms. Spanning from the Gupta period (4th–6th centuries) to the Kalachuri and Chandela eras (10th–13th centuries), these temples reflect the cultural, spiritual, and technical zenith of Central India. “The temples of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh are architectural treasures, blending Nagara aesthetics with regional innovation,” asserts historian K.A. Nilakanta Sastri (1955). Built predominantly of sandstone, brick, and occasionally marble, these structures demonstrate advanced quarrying, sculpting, and structural techniques, guided by Vastu Shastra principles.

The Guptas laid the foundation for Nagara architecture with modest shrines like those at Sanchi and Udaigiri, which “set the template for North Indian temple design,” notes archaeologist C. Sivaramamurti (1977). The Kalachuris in Chhattisgarh developed robust brick and stone temples, such as Bhoramdeo, while the Chandelas in Madhya Pradesh created the iconic Khajuraho group, known for erotic sculptures. “Khajuraho represents the zenith of Chandela artistry,” says art historian Vidya Dehejia (1990). The Panduvanshis and Somvanshis in Chhattisgarh contributed early brick temples, like Laxman Temple in Sirpur. “These temples are a testament to Central India’s architectural diversity,” observes archaeologist R. Nagaswamy (1980).

This treatise focuses on engineering feats—corbelled shikharas, deep foundations, and water management systems—and architectural features like garbhagrihas, mandapas, and intricate reliefs. “The engineering precision in these temples rivals modern standards,” states structural engineer R. Venkatesh (2015). Ten temples are selected for their historical significance, architectural uniqueness, and engineering complexity: Dasavatara (Deogarh), Lakshmana (Khajuraho), Chausath Yogini (Jabalpur), Bhoramdeo (Kawardha), Laxman (Sirpur), Devrani-Jethani (Tala), Bhitagaon (Kanpur), Parvati (Nachna Kuthara), Mahamaya (Bilaspur), and Temple No. 17 (Sanchi). These temples, spanning dynasties and styles, offer a comprehensive view of the region’s temple-building legacy. “Their endurance through centuries reflects their builders’ foresight,” notes conservationist N. Gopalakrishnan (2019). The study aims to highlight how these temples are not only spiritual landmarks but also enduring monuments to human ingenuity.drishtiias.comlotusarise.com

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2. Evolution of Temple Architecture and Engineering in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh

The temple-building tradition in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh evolved through distinct dynastic phases, each contributing unique architectural and engineering advancements. The Guptas (4th–6th centuries) pioneered Nagara architecture with modest sandstone and brick shrines, such as those at Sanchi and Deogarh. “Gupta temples laid the foundation for Nagara’s curvilinear shikhara,” says historian S.R. Balasubrahmanyam (1971). The Kalachuris (10th–12th centuries) in Chhattisgarh developed robust brick and stone temples, like Bhoramdeo, with intricate carvings. “Kalachuri architecture blends strength with artistry,” notes archaeologist B. Venkataraman (1985). The Chandelas (9th–13th centuries) in Madhya Pradesh created the Khajuraho group, known for their elaborate shikharas and erotic sculptures. “Khajuraho’s temples are a sculptural encyclopedia,” observes art historian R. Champakalakshmi (1996). The Panduvanshis and Somvanshis in Chhattisgarh built early brick temples, such as Laxman in Sirpur, reflecting Gupta influences.en.wikipedia.orglotusarise.com

Architectural Features: Nagara temples feature a garbhagriha (sanctum) topped by a curvilinear shikhara, often with an amalaka (ribbed stone) and kalasha (finial), surrounded by a mandapa (pillared hall) and raised jagati (platform). “The shikhara symbolizes the cosmic mountain,” explains epigraphist T.A. Gopinatha Rao (1914). The panchayatana style, with a central shrine and four subsidiary shrines, is evident in Deogarh’s Dasavatara Temple. “Panchayatana reflects cosmic symmetry,” says architect M.A. Dhaky (1999). Intricate carvings depict deities, myths, and daily life, with Khajuraho’s erotic sculptures highlighting human-divine unity. “The erotic art is a celebration of life,” notes historian Vidya Dehejia (1990).drishtiias.combyjus.com

Engineering Innovations: Sandstone and brick were primary materials, with occasional use of marble in Jain temples. “Sandstone’s durability ensured longevity,” observes geologist R. Subramanian (2010). Brick temples like Bhitagaon used terracotta for sculptural reliefs. “Terracotta allowed intricate detailing,” says engineer K. Srinivasan (2016). Corbelling created curvilinear shikharas, while deep foundations countered seismic risks. “The foundations are engineering marvels,” notes engineer V. Ganapati (2012). Water management systems, like Khajuraho’s tanks, ensured ritual purity. “Hydraulic systems were integral to temple design,” states hydrologist M. Amirthalingam (2018). The Bhoramdeo Temple’s tiered shikhara, inspired by Orissan styles, provided structural stability. “The tiered design is both aesthetic and functional,” says engineer A. Raman (2013).en.wikipedia.org

Socio-Engineering Aspects: Construction involved skilled artisans and royal patronage. “The sthapatis were master engineers,” says archaeologist R. Balasubramanian (2000). Inscriptions, such as those at Sirpur, detail labor organization and endowments. “Temples were economic hubs,” notes historian P. Arundhati (2008). Community involvement fostered social cohesion, with temples serving as cultural centers. “They were medieval universities,” states historian T.N. Subramanian (1982).

Material and Tool Advancements: Sandstone required precise chiseling, while brick temples used burnt clay for durability. “Brick construction was a Gupta innovation,” says engineer R. Natarajan (2014). Tools like chisels and hammers enabled detailed carvings. “The tools evolved with material demands,” observes engineer S. Muthiah (2010). The use of ramps and levers for stone placement, as in Khajuraho, highlights logistical prowess. “The logistics rival modern engineering,” notes geologist S. Krishnan (2017).

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3. 10 Iconic Temples

1. Dasavatara Temple, Deogarh (Gupta, 6th century)

Historical Background: Built in the late Gupta period, this temple is a UNESCO site dedicated to Vishnu.
Architectural Features: A panchayatana layout with a curvilinear shikhara and Vishnu reliefs (Sheshashayana, Nara-Narayan). “It’s a Gupta architectural prototype,” says historian S.R. Balasubrahmanyam (1971).
Engineering Highlights: Sandstone construction with a deep foundation ensures stability. “The foundation is seismically robust,” notes engineer V. Ganapati (2012).
Cultural Significance: A key site for Gupta art and Vaishnavism.
Preservation: ASI-maintained, well-preserved.drishtiias.comlotusarise.com

2. Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho (Chandela, 10th century)

Historical Background: Built by King Dhanga in 954 CE, this UNESCO site is dedicated to Vishnu.
Architectural Features: A Nagara shikhara with erotic sculptures. “The sculptures celebrate cosmic unity,” says art historian Vidya Dehejia (1990).
Engineering Highlights: Sandstone blocks are precisely interlocked. “The interlocking system is masterful,” notes engineer R. Venkatesh (2015).
Cultural Significance: A Chandela cultural hub with annual festivals.
Preservation: ASI-protected, well-maintained.drishtiias.com

3. Chausath Yogini Temple, Jabalpur (Chandela, 10th century)

Historical Background: Dedicated to yogini goddesses, it reflects Tantric worship.
Architectural Features: A circular hypaethral design with 64 shrines. “The circular layout is unique,” says archaeologist C. Sivaramamurti (1977).
Engineering Highlights: Granite blocks ensure durability. “The open design withstands weathering,” notes geologist R. Subramanian (2010).
Cultural Significance: A Tantric pilgrimage site.
Preservation: ASI-maintained, partially restored.drishtiias.com

4. Bhoramdeo Temple, Kawardha (Kalachuri, 11th century)

Historical Background: A Shiva temple built by the Kalachuris, dubbed the “Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh.”
Architectural Features: A tiered shikhara with erotic carvings. “It blends Orissan and Nagara styles,” says historian R. Nagaswamy (1980).
Engineering Highlights: Sandstone tiers provide stability. “The tiered design is structurally sound,” notes engineer A. Raman (2013).
Cultural Significance: A Shaivite cultural center.
Preservation: ASI-protected, with ongoing restoration.en.wikipedia.org

5. Laxman Temple, Sirpur (Panduvanshi, 7th century)

Historical Background: Built by Vasata, this brick temple is dedicated to Vishnu.
Architectural Features: A modest shikhara with Vishnu carvings. “It’s a Gupta-inspired masterpiece,” says archaeologist B. Venkataraman (1985).
Engineering Highlights: Brick construction with a jagati platform. “The brickwork is remarkably intact,” notes engineer K. Srinivasan (2016).
Cultural Significance: A Vaishnava pilgrimage site.
Preservation: ASI-maintained, partially ruined.lotusarise.com

6. Devrani-Jethani Temples, Tala (Kalachuri, 5th century)

Historical Background: Twin Shiva temples from the Kalachuri period.
Architectural Features: Detailed carvings and a colossal RudraShiva statue. “The sculptures are artistic marvels,” says historian T.N. Subramanian (1982).
Engineering Highlights: Sandstone construction withstands time. “The foundation is robust,” notes engineer R. Natarajan (2014).
Cultural Significance: A historical Shaivite site.
Preservation: ASI-protected, partially restored.theanamikapandey.com

7. Bhitagaon Temple, Kanpur (Gupta, 5th century)

Historical Background: One of India’s oldest brick temples, dedicated to Vishnu.
Architectural Features: A terracotta shikhara with deity reliefs. “The terracotta work is pioneering,” says archaeologist R. Balasubramanian (2000).
Engineering Highlights: Brick construction with a semi-circular arch. “The arch is a Gupta innovation,” notes engineer S. Muthiah (2010).
Cultural Significance: A Gupta architectural landmark.
Preservation: ASI-maintained, partially damaged.lotusarise.com

8. Parvati Temple, Nachna Kuthara (Gupta, 5th century)

Historical Background: A Gupta-era temple dedicated to Parvati.
Architectural Features: A low shikhara with a pradakshina path. “It’s an early Nagara prototype,” says historian K.A. Nilakanta Sastri (1955).
Engineering Highlights: Sandstone construction with a raised platform. “The platform ensures stability,” notes geologist S. Krishnan (2017).
Cultural Significance: A Shaivite historical site.
Preservation: ASI-protected, well-preserved.lotusarise.com

9. Mahamaya Temple, Bilaspur (Kalachuri, 12th century)

Historical Background: A Durga temple built by the Kalachuris.
Architectural Features: A Nagara shikhara with intricate carvings. “The carvings reflect Kalachuri artistry,” says art historian R. Champakalakshmi (1996).
Engineering Highlights: Sandstone blocks ensure durability. “The construction is seismically sound,” notes engineer V. Ganapati (2012).
Cultural Significance: A major pilgrimage site during Navratri.
Preservation: Active temple, ASI-supported.thrillophilia.com

10. Temple No. 17, Sanchi (Gupta, 5th century)

Historical Background: A Gupta-era Vishnu temple near the Sanchi stupa.
Architectural Features: A modest shikhara with a pillared mandapa. “It’s a minimalist Gupta design,” says archaeologist C. Sivaramamurti (1977).
Engineering Highlights: Sandstone construction with a simple foundation. “The simplicity belies its strength,” notes engineer R. Venkatesh (2015).
Cultural Significance: A historical Vaishnava site.
Preservation: ASI-protected, well-preserved.lotusarise.com

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4. Comparative Analysis

Gupta temples (Dasavatara, Bhitagaon, Parvati, Temple No. 17) introduced modest shikharas and brick construction, laying the Nagara foundation. “Gupta temples are architectural seeds,” says historian S.R. Balasubrahmanyam (1971). Kalachuri temples (Bhoramdeo, Mahamaya, Devrani-Jethani) blend Nagara with Orissan influences, featuring tiered shikharas and robust foundations. “Kalachuri architecture is a regional synthesis,” notes archaeologist R. Nagaswamy (1980). Chandela temples (Lakshmana, Chausath Yogini) emphasize elaborate shikharas and erotic art. “Khajuraho’s exuberance is unmatched,” says art historian Vidya Dehejia (1990). Panduvanshi temples like Laxman in Sirpur reflect Gupta simplicity with brick durability. “Sirpur’s temples are understated masterpieces,” observes archaeologist B. Venkataraman (1985).

Engineering varied by material: Gupta brick temples (Bhitagaon) used terracotta for reliefs, while Kalachuri and Chandela sandstone temples (Bhoramdeo, Lakshmana) prioritized interlocking blocks. “Material choice shaped structural design,” says geologist R. Subramanian (2010). Common features include curvilinear shikharas, raised platforms, and Vastu Shastra principles. “The Nagara style is a balance of form and function,” notes architect M.A. Dhaky (1999). Challenges like Khajuraho’s intricate carvings or Bhoramdeo’s tiered shikhara highlight regional ingenuity. “Each temple addressed unique structural demands,” says conservationist N. Gopalakrishnan (2019).

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5. Cultural and Modern Significance

These temples were cultural hubs, fostering art, music, and religious discourse. “They were medieval centers of learning,” says historian T.N. Subramanian (1982). Inscriptions detail economic roles, with temples employing artisans and priests. “They were economic powerhouses,” notes historian P. Arundhati (2008). Modern challenges include urbanization and weathering, but ASI ensures preservation. “Balancing tradition with technology is critical,” says conservationist N. Gopalakrishnan (2019). UNESCO recognition (Khajuraho, Dasavatara) boosts tourism, while festivals like Navratri at Mahamaya sustain spiritual vitality. “Temples remain living heritage,” observes archaeologist R. Balasubramanian (2000). Their influence extends to regional styles in Odisha and Rajasthan. “Central Indian architecture shaped North India’s temple tradition,” says historian K.V. Soundararajan (1981).

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6. Conclusion

The temples of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh are enduring symbols of Nagara architectural and engineering brilliance, blending sandstone and brick construction with spiritual symbolism. “Their longevity proves their structural mastery,” says engineer R. Natarajan (2014). The 10 temples analyzed showcase innovations like Bhitagaon’s terracotta shikhara, Bhoramdeo’s tiered design, and Khajuraho’s erotic art. “Each temple is a technical and artistic marvel,” notes geologist S. Krishnan (2017). Their cultural legacy remains vibrant, with festivals and tourism sustaining their relevance. Future research, using 3D imaging and material analysis, can unlock further secrets. “These temples are humanity’s heritage,” concludes archaeologist B. Venkataraman (1985).

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7. Appendices

Glossary:

• Shikhara: Curvilinear tower.
• Garbhagriha: Sanctum.
• Mandapa: Pillared hall.
• Vastu Shastra: Architectural texts.
  Timeline:
• 4th–6th c.: Gupta Nagara prototypes.
• 7th–12th c.: Kalachuri and Panduvanshi brick/stone temples.
• 9th–13th c.: Chandela architectural peak.
  Bibliography:
• Nagaswamy, R. (1980). The Art of Central India.
• Dehejia, Vidya (1990). Khajuraho: Art and Architecture.
• ASI reports, temple inscriptions.