Mahua Shiva-2 Temple, Madhya Pradesh

Address

Mahua Shiva-II Temple, Mahuwa, Madhya Pradesh 473990

Diety

Shiva

Introduction

The Mahua Shiva-II Temple in Mahua village, Shivpuri district, Madhya Pradesh, India, is a significant example of Nagara architecture style. Here are some key details about this temple:

Temple Name and Significance:

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the three ancient temples in Mahua village.
Mahua village is renowned for its historical temples and may be associated with Madhumati, mentioned in the Rannod inscription.

Temple Orientation:

This temple is east-facing, a common orientation in Hindu temple architecture.

Architectural Style and Layout:

The Mahua Shiva-II Temple is an exemplary specimen of the Nagara architectural style.
It consists of three main parts: the sanctum (garbhagriha), an antarala (vestibule), and a mukha-mandapa (main hall).
The temple follows the 64-square plan of Vastupurushamandala, as specified in the Brihat Samhita. The sanctum occupies 16 squares within this plan.
Various architectural elements of the temple, such as bhadra-niches, pratiratha (a type of projection), and karna (cornices), adhere to the specified dimensions in the text.

Temple Layout Category:

The temple falls into the pancharatha category, characterized by a design featuring a single bhadra (central projection) with two pratirathas and two karnas, arranged in proportions of 2:1:2:1:2.

Shikhara (Tower):

The shikhara (tower) of the temple was damaged on the eastern and southern sides, suggesting the impact of time and weather on the structure.

Doorway Decorations:

The entrance to the sanctum features the typical river motifs depicting Ganga and Yamuna, each on their respective mounts.
The sanctum doorway consists of five vertical bands, moving inward:
1. Patra-sakha (foliage band)
2. Naga-sakha (serpent band)
3. Pramatha-sakha (dancers band)
4. Stambha-sakha (pillar band)
5. Bahya-sakha (external band)

Lintel Decoration:

Above the sanctum doorway’s lintel (known as lalat-bimba), there is an image of Garuda, the divine eagle mount of Lord Vishnu.
Garuda is depicted with two vidhyadharas (celestial beings) holding a crown above him.

The Mahua Shiva-II Temple stands as a testament to the rich architectural and cultural heritage of the region, showcasing intricate details and adherence to traditional design principles in Hindu temple construction.