- Special FeaturesFoundation Year930 – 950 CE - YashovarmanSthala TreeTheerthamRathamArchitectureOther Speciality
- Sthala Puran
The Lakshmana Temple is a 10th-century Hindu temple built by Yashovarman located in Khajuraho, India. It is dedicated to Vaikuntha Vishnu - an aspect of Vishnu. It is believed that it took 20 years to build the temple. It is one of the first magnificent structures established in Khajuraho and also one of the three largest temples set in the Western Wing of the Khajuraho complex.
The Lakshmana exemplifies a composite religious practice – Tantric-Puranic – and is a major Vishnu temple, enshrining the esoteric icon of the god as Vaikuntha. During this period orthodox Brahmins were reasserting themselves against extreme Tantric sects (which referred to non-Vedic texts and magic rituals for union with the supreme being). Both believed in the role of female energy (Shakti) in the creation and dissolution of the universe.
- Architecture
It is a Sandhara Temple of the Panchayatana Variety. The entire temple complex stands on a high platform (Jagati). The structure consists of all the elements of Hindu temple architecture. It has entrance porch (ardh-mandapa), Mandapa, Maha-Mandapa, Antarala and Garbhagriha.
Unlike other temples in Khajuraho, its sanctum is Pancharatha on plan (top-view). Its shikhara is clustered with minor urushringas.
The wall portion is studded with balconied windows with ornate balustrades. It has two rows of sculptures including divine figures, couples and erotic scenes. The sanctum doorway is of seven sakhas (vertical panels). The central one being decorated with the ten incarnation of Vishnu. The Lintel depicts goddess Lakshmi in the centre flanked by Brahma and Vishnu. The sanctum contains four-armed sculpture of Vishnu. One of the niches has the image of the sculptor and his disciples at work
- Alankar of Deity
Main image is of three-headed & four-armed sculpture of Vaikuntha Vishnu. The central head is of human, and two sides of boar (depicting Varaha) and lion (depicting Narashima).
- Prayers and BenefitsSpecial Vratas and PrayersOfferings to DeityStotras and Mantras
- FestivalsKhajuraho Dance festival
- Sodasha Upcharas
- Prasadhas
- Social ActivitiesAnnadhanMarriageEar BoringHead ShaveDanaasEducation FacilitiesSocial DrivesOther Activities
- Arjita Seva
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