Chandpur Jain Temple, Uttar Pradesh

Address

Chandpur Jain Temple, Amau Khera, Chandpur, Jahajpur, Lalitpur Uttar Pradesh 284403

Diety

Thirthankaras.

Introduction

The Chandpur Group of Temples, located in Chandpur Village in Lalitpur, Uttar Pradesh, India, is an ancient cluster of temples dating back to the Chandela era. These temples are dedicated to various deities, including Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Jain Tirthankaras.

Historical Significance:

The temples in Chandpur are believed to be remnants of the Chandela dynasty, known for their patronage of art and architecture in Central India during the medieval period.

Dedication to Different Deities:

The temples in Chandpur are not limited to a single religious tradition but rather reflect a diverse range of religious beliefs. They include temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Jain Tirthankaras.

Protected Monuments:

The Chandpur Group of Temples is considered a site of national importance and is protected by the Central Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). This recognition underscores the historical and cultural significance of these ancient temples.

Layout of the Jain Temples Group:

The Jain Temples Group in Chandpur is situated to the southeast of Chandpur village, near the railway track of the Jhansi-Mumbai line.
This group consists of three structures within its premises. All these structures are in a dilapidated condition due to their age and exposure to the elements.

Main Jain Temple:

The major shrine of this group comprises a sanctum and a mandapa (hall).
The sanctum is located below ground level and can be accessed through a narrow entrance. It houses a colossal image of Jain Tirthankara, Shantinatha, who is in a standing posture in the Kayotsarga posture.
His arms extend down to his knees, although the right hand is damaged. He is flanked by several damaged Jaina images on both sides.
There are additional images in meditation posture and the Kayotsarga posture in a row on the left wall of the temple. An image of a goddess can also be seen beside Lord Shantinatha.
Sculptures of Jain Ambika and Kuber Yaksha are present on the outer wall of the temple. Ambika’s mount, the lion, is depicted beneath her seat.
The second structure is a small four-pillared mandapa situated in front of the main temple.
The third temple consisted of a sanctum and an entrance porch, but only the porch remains intact, as the sanctum is completely lost.

Architectural Fragments:

The temple complex is surrounded by compound walls on all sides, and within the premises, various architectural fragments and sculptures of Jaina figures are scattered around.

The Chandpur Group of Temples is not only a testimony to the artistic and architectural excellence of the Chandela dynasty but also a reflection of the coexistence of multiple religious traditions in the region. The site’s protection by the ASI ensures the preservation of these ancient structures for future generations to appreciate and study.