5 Temples of India Which Are Famous For Their Sculptures
India, 'Golden bird' of the worldis now regarded as one of the world's most conservative countries, there isevidence that the country was once incredibly liberal.
There are countless temples throughout the country that attest to this reality. If you're interested, here's a list of temples known for their sensual sculptures, which demonstrate India's open, progressive thought throughout those times. These sculptures hold a special significance in the history of India.
Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
These temples are believed to have taken between 300 and 400 years to construct and were built by the Chandela Dynasty's kings. It has also been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll notice that the sculptures on the walls feature exquisite sculptures of curvy bodies engaging in pleasure and seduction. While some experts believe these statues are depictions of scenes from the Kamasutra, others feel they merely represent India's liberal past.
Tripurantaka Temple, Karnataka
The Western Chalukyas constructed this temple, which is located in the historical town of Balligavi in the Shivamogga region of Karnataka. While the door frames and pillars are similar to those seen at Belur and Halebid, the outer walls are adorned with sculptures from the Kamasutra.
Modhera Sun Temple, Gujarat
The Sun Temple in Modhera is similar to any other temple, with beautiful carvings on the walls. If you look closely, though, you will notice that the figurines are engaged in intimate behaviours. Despite the fact that this temple is no longer in use and no rituals are performed there, it is nonetheless a popular tourist destination that is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Markandeshwar, Maharashtra
The temple, which is located on the banks of the River Wainganga, is regarded to be exceedingly sacred and is visited by tourists and locals who believe in the power of the presiding god in the temple. When you visit, you can see the exquisite sculptures on the walls, which have been kept to this day. If you look closely, you'll notice that some of the sculptures contain sexual imagery; according to legend, this is the work of demons, as the temple is claimed to have been built in one night.
Thirumayam, Tamil Nadu
The temple is devoted to Lord Vishnu, and on the outside walls are chapters from the Kamasutra. However, there is another legend related with the sensuous carving, according to which these sculptures were placed on the temple's exterior walls to represent the necessity to leave one's passions outside the temple before entering the sacred sanctuary.