Gyaraspur Chaukhamba Temple – Madhya Pradesh

Address

Gyaraspur Chaukhamba Temple – Madhya Pradesh

Gyaraspur, Vidisha District,

Madhya Pradesh 464331

Moolavar

Lord Vishnu

Introduction

The Chaukhamba Temple in Gyaraspur, Madhya Pradesh, India, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, holds historical and architectural significance.

Location:

• The Chaukhamba Temple is located in Gyaraspur Town, Gyaraspur Tehsil, Vidisha District, Madhya Pradesh, India.
• Gyaraspur is situated on the Vidisha to Sagar route, and buses regularly ply between Vidisha and Gyaraspur.

Historical Significance:

• Gyaraspur was an important town in medieval India, known for its historical and religious heritage.
• The town boasts several ruins of ancient Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist places of worship, most of which date back to the 9th and 10th centuries CE.
• The name “Gyaraspur” is derived from a fair held in the eleventh month of the calendar, with “gyaras” signifying joy at the eleventh.

Gyaraspur Lady (Salabhanjika):

• Gyaraspur is famous for a Salabhanjika sculpture, also known as the “Indian Venus” or “Gyaraspur Lady.” This exceptional sculpture is currently housed in the Gwalior Gujari Mahal Archaeological Museum, situated in Gwalior Fort Museum. It is renowned for its beauty and artistic value.

Temple History:

• The Chaukhamba Temple was constructed in the 10th century CE by the Kachchhapaghata rulers.

Temple Description:

• The Chaukhamba Temple consists of four pillars, which are located next to the Hindola Torana, an ancient gateway.
• These pillars are believed to have been the central pillars of the mandapa (hall) of an ancient temple complex that once existed here.
• The temple likely faced east and may have been dedicated to Lord Vishnu or the Hindu trinity.
• In its prime, the temple complex is estimated to have measured approximately 150 feet from east to west and 85 feet from north to south.

Ornate Pillars:

• The four pillars are intricately decorated with ornate carvings on all sides, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the artisans of that era.
• The carvings on the pillars likely depict various mythological and religious themes, adding to the temple’s cultural and artistic significance.

Hindola Torana:

• The Hindola Torana, located nearby, is believed to have served as the entrance gateway to the ancient temple complex.

Century/Period

10th century CE

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

Nearest Bus Station

Gyaraspur

Nearest Railway Station

Vidisha Station

Nearest Airport

Bhopal

Location on Map

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