Pathari Kutakeswara Temple, Madhya Pradesh

Address

Pathari Kutakeswara Temple, Pathari- Badoh Village, Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh 464337

Diety

Kutakeswara

Introduction

The Kutakeswara Temple is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the village of Badoh-Pathari, situated in the Kurwai Taluk of the Vidisha District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has been classified as a “Monument of National Importance” by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The temple is located in the Vidisha District of Madhya Pradesh, a region known for its rich historical and archaeological heritage.

Puranic Significance

The Kutakeswara Temple is believed to have been built during the 9th century CE, which places it in the historical period of ancient Indian temple architecture. This makes it an important historical and religious site.

Historical Significance: Badoh and Pathari were important ancient towns during the medieval period. The villages were collectively referred to as Batnagar by the locals. Over the centuries, these villages were ruled by various dynasties, including the Guptas in the 6th century CE, the Pratiharas from the 8th to the 10th century CE, and later the Paramaras and Rashtrakutas.
Ancient Monuments: The area is home to several ancient monuments that date from the 5th century CE to the 11th century CE. These monuments are a testament to the rich history and architectural heritage of the region.
Dedication: The temple you described is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a significant religious and historical site in the region.
Architectural Features:
- Raised Platform: The temple is constructed on a raised platform, a common feature in Hindu temple architecture that symbolizes the elevated spiritual significance of the temple.
- Temple Components: The temple comprises several parts, including the sanctum, antrala (an intermediate chamber), and a pillared mandapa (a hall).
- Sanctum: The sanctum is triratha in plan and enshrines a Sahastralinga, a thousand-linga representation of Lord Shiva.
- Bust Image of Sadashiva: A bust image of Sadashiva is placed on a slab in the rear wall of the temple, adding to its religious significance.
- Lintel Carvings: The lintel of the sanctum doorway features intricate carvings, including an image of Nataraja (the dancing form of Lord Shiva) flanked by flying Vidyadharas (celestial beings) and a female figure holding a veena (a musical instrument) at the cardinal ends. The architrave of the lintel depicts the Navagrahas (nine celestial deities associated with astrology).
- Separate Panel: Above the lintel, there is a separate panel adorned with carvings of Parvati (the consort of Lord Shiva), Ganesha (Lord of Beginnings), Kaumari (a form of the goddess), and Chamunda (a fierce form of the goddess).