Kharod Andal Deul Temple - Chhattisgarh

Address

Kharod Andal Deul Temple – Chhattisgarh

Kharod, Janjgir – Champa District,

Chhattisgarh 495556

Moolavar

Lord Shiva

Introduction

The Andal Deul Temple in Kharod, near Shivrinarayan in the Janjgir – Champa District of Chhattisgarh, is a site of historical and cultural importance with a connection to the Ramayana.

Historical and Puranic Significance:

Kharod is believed to have been an important place from the 7th to the 11th century AD. It houses a group of ancient temples, including the Andal Deul, Sabari Temple, and Lakhneshwar Temple. The town was established by the Panduvamshis of Kosala in the 7th century AD.
According to the Ramayana, Kharod is associated with a significant battle between Lord Rama, Lakshmana, and the demon siblings Khara and Dushana, younger brothers of Ravana. This battle is believed to have occurred at Kharod, leading to the town’s name.

Architectural Features:

The Andal Deul Temple faces westward and is constructed primarily with bricks, although the doorway and platform (Jagati) are made of stone. It is elevated on a platform and follows a Saptaratha architectural plan.
The temple’s vimana (tower-like structure above the sanctum) design resembles that of the Lakshmana Temple in Sirpur.
Inside the sanctum, there is no installed idol; only a few loose panels are placed within. The inner walls of the sanctum are simple, with a layer of stucco plaster.
The entrance of the temple features sculptures of the river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna. The lintel above the door jambs depicts Lord Shiva and Parvati in a relaxed posture at the center, with Brahma on the left and Vishnu on the right.
The external walls of the temple have niches for Parsvadevatas (attendant deities), which have suffered from weathering. Additionally, there are depictions of horse riders on either side of these niches.

Cultural and National Importance:

The temple is known as Andal Deul and Kharod is also referred to as the “Kashi of Chhattisgarh” due to its religious and cultural significance.
The Andal Deul Temple has been declared of national importance under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958, recognizing its historical value.

The Andal Deul Temple stands as a testament to the region’s historical and cultural heritage and is a site of interest for both its architectural features and its connection to the epic of the Ramayana.