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G-20 Culture Group Meeting at an ancient city Khajuraho

By Dharmishthaba

 A Cultural Marvel: Khajuraho Temple 
Credit: Aneta Ribarska

INTRODUCTION

The ancient Kharjjura-vahaka, known as Khajuraho today, showcases a unique style of art and temple architecture that reflects the rich and creative era under Chandella rule. This historic site was the central seat of power for the Chandella rulers, who embellished it with numerous tanks and impressive temples renowned for their exquisite sculptures and magnificent architecture.

Temple Architecture 

Khajuraho, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its array of temples constructed by the Chandela dynasty during the 9th to 11th centuries. These temples are celebrated for their fine sculptures, elaborate carvings, and realistic portrayals of human emotions and actions. Notable temples include the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, Lakshmana Temple, and Vishvanatha Temple.
 
Lakshmana Temple 
Credit: Archaeological Survey of India 

The temples of Jagadambi and Chitragupta stand out as prominent structures within the western group of royal temples in Khajuraho.

Jagdambi Temple 
Credit: Madhya Pradesh Tourism 


One of the most impressive temples in Khajuraho is the enduring Kandariya Mahadeva, believed to be commissioned by King Ganda during the years AD 1017-29. The subsequent temples like Vamana, Adinatha, Javari, Chaturbhuj, and Duladeo, though smaller in size but intricately designed. 

Kandariya Mahadev Temple 
Credit: Madhya Pradesh Tourism 

Historical records indicate that in the 12th Century AD, there were a total of 85 temples spread across a 20 square kilometre area at the temple site in Khajuraho. Presently, only 25 of these temples remain, dispersed within a 6 square kilometre region.

The temples of the Khajuraho group are well-known for their grand terraces (jagati) and well-designed layouts, which typically include an ardhamandapa serving as the entrance, often embellished with ornamental makara torana and kakshasana. This leads to the mandapa, a hall with an antarala that guides visitors to the garbha griha or sanctum. Larger temples feature mahamandapas in front of the ardhamandapa and minor shrines at the four corners, making them classified as Pancayatana. The exteriors of these temples are intricately adorned, whereas Javari and Brahma temples are characterized by their simpler designs.
Credit: Aneta Ribarska

The excavation conducted at Bija Mandal in Jatkara, near Khajuraho, has uncovered the remains of a substantial temple base dating back to the 11th century A.D. This temple base exceeds the size of the largest known temple, the Kandariya Mahadeo Temple, by over 4 meters. Additionally, a beautiful image of Sarasvati was discovered at the site.

Parsvanath Jain Temple 
Credit: Madhya Pradesh Tourism 

The Khajuraho group of temples, constructed as a collective but consecrated to both Hinduism and Jainism, exemplifies a tradition of tolerance and reverence for a variety of religious beliefs within the Hindu and Jain communities of the area.

Khajuraho as the Venue for the G20 Culture Group Meeting 

Credit: News on Air 

In a unique convergence of ancient heritage and contemporary diplomacy, Khajuraho served as the venue for the G20 Culture Group Meeting. This meeting, attended by cultural ministers and representatives from the G20 nations, was a landmark event aimed at fostering international cooperation in preserving and promoting cultural diversity.
The choice of Khajuraho as the meeting location was deliberate, showcasing India's commitment to celebrating its cultural legacy and sharing it with the world. The meeting provided a platform for discussions on the role of culture in sustainable development, cultural diplomacy, and the preservation of cultural heritage in the face of modern challenges.

How to Reach 

  1. By Air:

  • Khajuraho has its own airport, the Khajuraho Airport (IATA: HJR). It is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Varanasi, and Agra.

  1. By Train:

  • The Khajuraho Railway Station (Station Code: KURJ) is connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Agra, Varanasi, and Jhansi.
  • Several trains, including express and superfast trains, ply to Khajuraho. The railway station is around 5 km from the temple complex.

    1. By Road:

    • Khajuraho is well-connected by road to various cities and towns in Madhya Pradesh and neighbouring states.
    • Regular bus services, both government and private, operate in Khajuraho from nearby cities like Jhansi, Satna, Chhatarpur, and Mahoba.

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