Millenary of the Khajuraho Temples

Khajuraho Temples

Technical Data

Date of Issue March 6, 1999
Denomination Rs. 15
Quantity 1,000,000
Perforation comb 13
Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Multicolor
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 1679

Stamp Number IN 1740

Yvert et Tellier IN 1446

Stanley Gibbons IN 1842

Themes Anniversaries and Jubilees | Statues | Temples

Khajuraho Temples: Overview

Location and Historical Context:

  • Location: Khajuraho, District Chhatarpur, Central India.
  • Historical Names: Vatsa (ancient times), Jejakbhukti (medieval period), Bundelkhand (14th century onwards).
  • Patronage: Built under the Chandella rulers such as Yashovarman, Dhang, Gund, and Vidhyadhara.

Architectural and Cultural Significance:

  • Temples: Originally 85 temples; 25 survive today.
  • Architecture:
  • Style: Central Indian temple style with distinctive features.
  • Design: Compact and lofty temples, erected on high platforms (jagati).
  • Elements: Typically include porch (ardhamandapa), hall (mandapa), entablature (antarala), and sanctum (garbhagriha).
  • Panchayatana Temples: Some larger temples feature subsidiary shrines on the four corners of the platform.
  • Deities: Temples dedicated to Brahmanical (Shiva, Vishnu, Surya, Devi) and Jain pantheons (Tirthankaras).

Groups of Temples:

  • Western Group:
  • Notable Temples: Lakshman, Jagdambi, Kandhariya, Chitragupta, and Vishvanath temples.
  • Features: Most important group, known for elaborate decorations.
  • Eastern and Southern Groups:
  • Eastern: Includes Jain temples with exquisite carvings.
  • Southern: Less developed but still significant.

Art and Sculpture:

  • Sculptures: Known for intricate and exotic sculptures.
  • Apsaras: Most impressive; depicted in various forms, including “Apsara removing a thorn from her foot.”
  • Other Figures: Gods, goddesses, sura-sundaris (celestial maidens), and animal figures.

Historical Timeline:

  • Construction Period: 9th to 12th century A.D.

Stamp Details:

  • Commemorative Issue: Celebrates one thousand years of Khajuraho.
  • Design: Features a sculpture of “Apsara removing a thorn from her foot.”
  • First Day Cover: Includes a picture of the Vishvanatha Temple dated 999 A.D.

Significance:

Khajuraho temples are celebrated for their architectural brilliance and intricate sculptures, representing a high point in Central Indian temple architecture. Their contribution to art and culture continues to be acknowledged and celebrated, making them an important symbol of India’s rich heritage.