Gyaraspur Hindola Torana Temple - Madhya Pradesh

Address

Gyaraspur Hindola Torana Temple – Madhya Pradesh

Gyaraspur, Gyaraspur Tehsil,

Vidisha District,

Madhya Pradesh 464331

Moolavar

Lord Vishnu

Introduction

The Hindola Torana is an entrance arch that was part of a long-lost temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is located in Gyaraspur Town, in the Gyaraspur Tehsil of the Vidisha District in Madhya Pradesh, India.

Location: The Hindola Torana is situated adjacent to the Chaukhamba Temple in Gyaraspur.
Monument of National Importance: The temple, including the Hindola Torana, has been recognized as a “Monument of National Importance” by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). This designation underscores its historical and cultural significance.
Gyaraspur: Gyaraspur is a town with a rich historical heritage, known for its ancient Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist places of worship that date back to the 9th and 10th centuries CE. The name “Gyaraspur” is derived from a fair that took place in the eleventh month of the calendar, with “gyaras” meaning “joy at the eleventh.”
Salabhanjika Sculpture: Gyaraspur is famous for its Salabhanjika sculpture, also known as the “Indian Venus” or “Gyaraspur Lady.” This exceptional work of art is currently housed in the Gwalior Gujari Mahal Archaeological Museum (Gwalior Fort Museum).
Historical Background: The Hindola Torana and the temple it once adorned were constructed in the 10th century CE by the Kachchhapaghata rulers. The torana’s name, “Hindola Torana,” is derived from its appearance, resembling a platform for a swing.
Orientation: The temple, which no longer exists, is believed to have faced east and may have been dedicated to Lord Vishnu or the Hindu trinity. The temple was approximately 150 feet in length from east to west and 85 feet in width from north to south.
Dasavathara Carvings: The door jambs of the torana are adorned with carvings depicting the Dasavathara, the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
Ornamental Features: The torana is adorned with ornate architectural details. It features pillars with two horizontal beams and two ornamental arches between the beams. This torana served as the southern entrance to the temple.

The Hindola Torana and the Chaukhamba Temple are valuable historical relics that provide insights into the rich architectural and artistic heritage of the region and its religious significance.