Aiti Surya Temple – Madhya Pradesh

Address

Aiti Surya Temple – Madhya Pradesh

Aiti village, Morena Tehsil,

Morena district,

Madhya Pradesh 476444

Moolavar

Surya

Introduction

The Surya Temple in Aiti Village, Morena, is another intriguing addition to the rich tapestry of ancient temples in Madhya Pradesh.The Surya Temple is dedicated to Lord Surya, often feature unique architectural elements, including prominent sun motifs and sculptures. The temple’s proximity to the Bateshwar Group of Temples in Padhawali suggests that it may be part of a larger temple complex or cluster of temples in the region. The Surya Temple has been recognized and protected as a state monument by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Puranic Significance

The Surya Temple in Aiti Village, Morena, is a remarkable testament to the rich heritage of temple architecture in India.

Historical Origin: The Surya Temple is believed to have been constructed in the 11th century CE during the rule of the Kachchhapaghata dynasty. This places it within the historical context of regional rulers who patronized temple construction during that era.

West-Facing Orientation: The temple is oriented to the west, which is relatively uncommon in Indian temple architecture, where east-facing temples are more prevalent. This west-facing orientation might have had specific significance or reasons associated with its construction.

Architectural Components: The temple primarily consists of two main sections: the sanctum (garbhagriha) and a pillared mandapa (mukha mandapa). The presence of a mukha mandapa suggests that it was added at a later time, potentially during renovations or modifications to the temple.

Decorative Elements: The doorjambs of the temple are adorned with intricate carvings. Notably, they feature images of river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna, which are common motifs in Indian temple art. The lintel above the entrance depicts Surya, the solar deity, and Uma Mahesvara, a composite form of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, at the terminal projections. Additionally, depictions of the Sapta Matrikas (seven mother goddesses) and the Navagrahas (nine celestial deities associated with the planets) can be found on the recesses, further highlighting the temple’s significance in Hindu religious iconography.

Deity Enshrined: Although originally dedicated to Lord Surya (the sun god), the temple currently enshrines a Shiva Linga, representing Lord Shiva. Changes in the presiding deity of temples over time are not uncommon in India’s religious and architectural history.

Lack of Shikara: Unlike many Hindu temples with towering shikaras (spires) over the sanctum, this temple appears to lack a shikara. This architectural feature, or the absence thereof, may have been influenced by the temple’s regional or historical context.