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Sex Temple Statutes Khajuraho Temples Creativity knows no limits and this is exemplified by the sculptural art of Khajuraho temples. The art at Khajuraho is the living testament to the freedom of expression in ancient India. The artists in ancient India were patronized and there prevailed an atmosphere that nurtured creativity. The stunning artistic creations in Khajuraho temples have amazed all. Different from other artistic creations, the temples of Khajuraho have gained international fame. There are erotic carvings in these temples. Originally 85 in number, most of them were destroyed by the Britishers. Today, only 22 are in good condition. The temples at Khajuraho are divided into three major groups: Western Group, Eastern Group, Southern Group. These temples were built by Chandela rulers who adorned these temples with various features. There are stone figures of Apsaras ( celestial maidens) on each of the 22 existing temples. There are figures of couples locked in amorous style, various sexual positions. Various theories have been put forward that try to explain the reason for such a creation. Some say that the erotic carvings on Khajuraho temple complex were created to prevent the rain god from accidentally striking the holy place with lightning. Being a voyeur, he would not have destroyed such source of pleasure. Others say that carvings served as sort of guide for Brahmin boys who grew up in segregated schools. t@o
The creators of Khajuraho claimed descent from the moon as is testified by the fascinating legend behind the creation of this great dynasty and the temples. Hemwati, the lovely young widowed daughter of a Brahmin priest, was seduced by the moon-god while she was bathing in a forest pool. As the moon-god prepared to leave, Hemvati threatened to curse him for having molested her chastity, at which the moon-god blessed her with an invincible son, who would grow up to become a reputed world ruler and from whom will would spring a thousand royal branches. The child born of this union was Chandravarman, founder of the Chandela dynasty. It is believed that Brihsapati; the preceptor of gods' descended on the earth to write his horoscope.Brought up in the forests by his mother who sought refuge from a censorious society, at an age of sixteen, the young Chandravarman was so strong that he killed a tiger with a piece of stone and a full grown lion with a small stick. When he was established as a ruler, he had a dream-visitation from his mother. It is said that she implored him to build temples that would reveal human passions, and in doing so bring about a realization of the emptiness of human desire. It is also believed that Chandelas were followers of the Tantric cult, which believes that gratification of earthly desires is a step towards attaining the infinite liberation or 'nirvana'. With their decline, the temples lay forgotten for many centuries, covered by the encroaching forests, victim to the ravages of the elements. Re-discovered only in this century, restored and cleaned, the temples of Khajuraho once again testify to a past glory. t@o
Sex Temple Statutes The Legend of Khajuraho t@o
