Majholi Vishnu Varaha Temple- Madhya Pradesh
Address
Majholi Vishnu Varaha Temple- Majholi, Madhya Pradesh 483336
Deity
Vishnu Varaha
Introduction:
- Location: Majholi Village, Majholi Taluk, Jabalpur District, Madhya Pradesh, India
- Dedicated To: Lord Vishnu (Varaha Avatar)
- Significance: Recognized as a “Monument of National Importance” by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
Puranic Significance:
- Historical Background:
- Constructed during the 11th century CE, under the Kalachuri dynasty
- Follows Kalachuri architectural style
- Main Idol:
- Enshrines an image of Varaha, the boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu
- The sanctum doorway has a lintel featuring a four-armed Vishnu in Yoga posture, flanked by Navagrahas (nine celestial entities)
- Door jambs decorated with celestial nymphs (apsaras) and river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna
- Varaha Idol:
- The body of Varaha adorned with depictions of various Hindu gods, celestial beings, and sages
- A serpent is seen between the legs of Varaha, holding a vessel, accompanied by his wife
- Similar to Varaha images in other historical sites like Eran and Khajuraho
- External Sculptures:
- Sculptures of deities like Ganesha, Vaishnavi, Uma Maheshvara, and Vishnu from the Kalachuri era can be found on the external walls of the sanctum
Special Features:
- Unique Iconography:
- Features an elephantine Varaha behind a life-sized idol of Vishnu in Yogasana
- Additional idols of Ganesha, Kali, and Hanuman are also enshrined
Festivals:
- Major Celebrations:
- Annual tribal fairs organized on Mahashivaratri and Janmashtami
Century/Period/Age
11th century CE
Managed By
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
Nearest Bus Station
Majholi
Nearest Railway Station
Sihora
Nearest Airport
Jabalpur