Khedbrahma Brahma Temple, Gujarat

Address

Khedbrahma Brahma Temple, Gujarat

Brahmaji Chowk,

Khedbrahma,

Gujarat 383255

Moolavar

Brahma

Introduction

• Location: Khedbrahma, Gujarat, India.
• Historical Period: Built in the third quarter of the 11th century during the reign of Chaulukya king Karna.
• Uniqueness: Temples dedicated to Lord Brahma are rare in India, making this shrine particularly significant.

Puranic Significance

• The temple was constructed in the 11th century, a time when the Chaulukya dynasty thrived, known for their architectural brilliance.
• The temple faces east, aligning with auspicious Vastu principles.

Architectural Features

1. Original Structure:
   • Built using white sandstone and later reinforced with cement-covered bricks during restoration.
   • Dimensions:
     • Length: 57 feet
     • Breadth: 30 feet
     • Height: 36 feet
   • The sanctum (garbhagriha) spans 32 feet and is built in the navaratha anga style, a hallmark of intricate temple design.
2. Spire and Mandapa:
   • The original spire, mandapa (dome), and doorway were destroyed and later rebuilt.
   • The roof of the mandapa resembles that of the Vimala Vasahi Temple at Mount Abu, crowned with a ghanta (bell-shaped finial).
3. Carvings and Sculptures:
   • The base (pitha) and middle portion (vedibandha and mandovara) are adorned with images of gods, goddesses, apsaras, and other celestial beings.
   • The lower part of the main shrine retains its original beauty, though some carvings have been poorly retouched.
   • The chauri-bearers (fly-whisk attendants) are intricately carved, typical of 11th-century temple art.
4. Pillars and Doorway:
   • The modern mandapa uses four octagonal pillars from the original structure, decorated with bells, chains, and kirtimukha faces.
   • The doorway, possibly original or reconstructed, is adorned with floral patterns and minor sculptures.
   • A dedicatory block featuring Ganesha is situated at the center.
5. Interior Features:
   • The interior is relatively plain, lacking ornamental carvings.
   • The central sanctum houses a three-faced, four-armed standing image of Lord Brahma, measuring 1.8 meters (5’6″) in height.
   • Two geese flank the deity, symbolizing Brahma’s vahana (vehicle).
   • The deity’s image appears to be a later addition or an older sculpture repaired with cement to integrate broken parts.

Century/Period

11th century

Managed By

Department of Archaeology (DOA)

Nearest Bus Station

Khedbrahma

Nearest Railway Station

Khed Brahma Station

Nearest Airport

Ahmedabad

Location on Map

lightuptemple