| Abstract: | The town of Khajuraho witnessed the extensive building of temples, lakes, and gardens by the Chandela royal family, their chiefs, and merchants in the period from 900 to 1150. Tradition records the existence of 85 temples, of which only 25 have survived. The mighty Chandela king Dhangadeva, who ruled at Khajuraho between 950 and 1002, built the magnificent Vishvanatha temple in the western area of the town. An inscription states that Dhangadeva dedicated two lingas to the temple, one of emerald and a second of stone. This article explores the reign of Dhangadeva and his role as a patron of the arts. It also discusses the role of artists and poets during Dhangadeva's rule. The main features of the Vishvanatha temple are described including its architecture, structure, and plan, as well as the sculptures and their themes, various sects that worshipped at the temple, and the epics associated with the temple. Source of Abstract: Provided by Publisher |
