The last temple of Khahuraho called the Dulhadeo lies south
of the Ghantai temple. This finest temple at Khajuraho also called Kunwar Math
offers some of the choicest sculptures especially the Shalbhanjika. It is a
fully developed temple measuring 21 m by 12 m (69 ft. by 40 ft.) with the ardhamanadap,
the mandapa, the maha mandapa, the antarala and the garbha griha with no circumambulatory
passage. The ceiling of the maha mandap is a series of diminishing circles of
overlapping stones. There is an image of Shiva on the lintel of the entrance
to the garbh griha indicating that the temple was originally dedicated to Lord
Shiva.
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 various sculptures inside the temple,
the outer walls of the temple are decorated with
three
bands f 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. Specially 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.
Southern
Group of Temples -
Dulah
Deo Temple,
Chattarbhuj
Temple
Places to See -
Western
Group of Temples,
Eastern
Group of Temples,
Southern
Group of Temples
