Great or not, all civilizations ascend to bathe in splendor and decline to vanish without a trace; Kings conquer all, take a magnanimous walk on the land and finally find the solace in their grand graves. Amidst ever-fleeting time, what remains from those glory days is the heritage representing the forever greatness of Skills and Abilities of the artists from bygone era.
In India, its glorious and magnanimous past dwells in its temples which are everywhere from Khajuraho to Sun Temple of Konark to Badrinath Dham to Shiva Lingam of Kedarnath to beautiful sky kissing Meenakshi to huge Rameshwaram temple to Imposing Temple of Bhojpur to 1000 pillar temple in Warangal to Shakaracharya temple in Srinagar, and truly the list is endless. Every temple of such greatness tells the tale of time to the men yet to born. These achievements of eternity, make today better for all of us. In quest to explore such greatness carved in stones, this time I went to Chhattisgarh and witnessed one such temple – Bhoram Deo Temple, standing tall in the midst of wilderness.
Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh: Bhoram Deo Temple. It was built in 11th century during the reign of Ramchandra Deo of the Nagavanshi dynasty and has a unique Shiva Linga erected over 16 pillars.
Chhattisgarh, a hidden paradise in central India, is not only known for its exceptional natural landscapes, but region also has its own rich history and heritage. For centuries, its wilderness and dense forest surrounded by mountain ranges deterred invading armies to enter this land of tribals and thus when unearthed and explored, Chhattisgarh awed everyone with its architectural marvels and remarkable heritage.
During our last road trip to Chhattisgarh via Bhedaghat, we did a detour and ventured into Bhoram Deo National Park which famously houses erotic Temple of Bhoram Deo. Chhattisgarh has many evocative temples built by Naga Rulers (Serpent Worshipers) and I became curious with Naga clan and their architecture during my last visit to Barasur / Sirpur in Chhattsgarh. So, when I realized another Naga temple can be explored during this road trip, I wholeheartedly took the detour to this Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva which is now over 1000 years old.
Golden hour capture amidst Teak Wood Forest of Bhoram Deo wildlife sanctuary on the way to Bhoram Deo Temple.
This treasure trove was indeed a treasure hunt as the road took us over a hill through dense forest and picturesque landscape before opening the vista to a serene lake. Bhoarm Deo Temple was right next to a serene lake making entire setting very tranquil. During walk to temple circling the lake, we were totally engrossed into the nature as the scene was a real pacifier and soul elevating which, I believe, was required to feel the very existence of this temple.
Placid Lake next to Bhoram Deo Temple, Chhattisgarh.
Serene and soulful landscape around the lake
A hybrid rope way to cross the lake
Nestled amidst the picturesque surrounding of Maikal Mountains Range and dense forest of saal and saguan, Bhoaram Deo temple is a perfect blend of religious and erotic sculptures. Its glory resembles to that of Sun Temple of Konark and Khajuraho group of temples therefore it is called Khajuraho of CG. In fact, ironically, it is believed to be the starting point of the culmination known as Khajuraho which took over 200 years to achieve its grand climax by late 12th century. For that matter, Indian craftsmanship was at its peak when they built enigmatic Sun Temple of Konark in 13th Century.
The legendary account of the temple associates it with the Gond Ruler of Nagvanshi Clan and the temple is named so after local deity Bhoram Deo who is believed to be an incarnation of Shiva by ethnic Gond Tribals. This is a live example of skilled craftsmanship of Naga Rulers who created first of its kind open art gallery on the outer wall of the temple consisting of sculptures akin to Khajuraho Temples. The poses from Kama Sutra are true epitome of eternal love and beauty.
A famous replica of Rudra Statue from Tala Village of Chhattisgarh
Its structural uniqueness lies in the receding rows or tiers placed successively upwards up to the top part of the temple tower.
It has the Shiva Lingam installed in Garbhahriaha, the sanctum sanctorum, much below the ground level and thus the dark interior enhances the spiritual ambience near the lingam. Most fascinating aspect of the sanctum sanctorum is the Ganesh in warrior posture which reminded me of the twin Ganesha at Barasur posing in warrior posture. This warrior pose is unique to the Nagvanshi’s architecture and has a certain tantric meaning to it. Every part of this temple is carved with utmost craftsmanship and inspires awe in today’s architects for its execution.
Sanctum Sanctorum – Main Shiva Lingam at the centre.
Lord Ganesha in Warrior Pose
Shiva & Parvati
Historians say that when Lord Cunningham visited the temple, he called it to be one of the most magnificently decorated temples he had ever seen. For many decades, it was never a prominent place to visit, however, after the creation of new state Chhattisgarh, it got its worthy prominence. Now every year, Chhattisgarh Tourism organizes a festival here to celebrate the glory of this temple. Madwa Mahal and Sherki Mahal are few other ancient structures in the vicinity which also can be visited.
I highly recommend this place for every travel thirsty soul for it offers a glimpse to India’s rich culture and heritage. One feels elated to see the brilliance of craftsmanship from an era when Indian-ness and its real essence was at its peak. In my view, it is indeed an offbeat place which also offer trekking opportunity through the jungles of Maikal Mountain Range. One can also plan some ethno-travel and meet indigenous tribes and explore rural India. Bhoram Deo National Park is a ‘Tiger Reserve’ and is located adjacent to famous Kanha National Park.
So, GO CHHATTISGARH and explore its hidden gems like Bhoram Deo Temple.
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Save the Temple: It requires immediate conservation as cracks have been noticed on the structure including the sanctum sanctorum. Collectively we need to create awareness to save this structure and one way is to share this post so that authorities get to know the remarkable presence of this temple.
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If you feel motivated, please share this blog post with your loved ones so that they can break the mundane cycle of everyday life and explore the world.
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Related Posts:
- Road-trip To Bhedaghat & Chhattisgarh: 10 Incredibly High Moments
- Quick View: A Road Trip To Chhattisgarh Via Bhedaghat In Madhya Pradesh
- Go Chhattisgarh: 5 Surprises From My 5 Days Roadtrip to Chhattisgarh
- Quick View: A Road trip to Bastar in Chhattisgarh – The Tribal Planet
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Disclaimer: The details in post are based on my short stay and as per interaction with local people who were available there. I feel there is more to this story and would like to learn further about this place, its history. So, if you know more about this please comment to educate me or to corret me.
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Very informative post. I never heard of this temple before, let alone Chattsigarh. I would want to visit this place now. I do like the landscape around the lake. So surreal. 🙂
India really is an incredible place – the Bhoram Deo Temple at Chhattisgarh looks fascinating. What never ceases to amaze me is how these ancient temples are still used for workship!
Wow, what a well researched and thoroughly written post – I love that! It’s very interesting and the beautiful picture illustrate it really well.
Wow – you’re so knowledgeable about temples in general… you prompted me to research “lingam” and “sanctorum.” Thanks for sharing this history and beauty!
Wow – you’re so knowledgeable about temples! You made me curious to research “lingam” and “sanctorum.” Thanks for sharing this beauty and history!
So glad you had a good drive through there! The photos are gorgeous and the sculptures too. Especially love the picture of Teak Wood Forest!
An interesting place! It’s quite fortunate the builders of these structures chose where they did to prevent armies from invading, sounds like it’s really off the beaten track to find. It’s also amazing to think some of these are over 1000 years old. I also love the idea that it’s possible to meet indigenous tribes, getting to know the locals an how they live truly enriches your travel experience. Thanks for sharing!
An interesting place! It’s quite fortunate the builders of these structures chose where they did to prevent armies from invading, sounds like it’s really off the beaten track to find. It’s also amazing to think some of these are over 1000 years old. I also love the idea that it’s possible to meet indigenous tribes, getting to know the locals an how they live truly enriches your travel experience. Thanks for sharing!
This was a really well written and articulate post. I’ve never been to India myself but having spent a lot of time in South East Asia, I’ve seen Indian influences on temples all around the region. I have to admit I love visiting old ruins and temples seeing the intricacy in the architecture just blows my mind.
So much history! I hadn’t heard of this and would love to see it, you did a great job creating awareness and I hope efforts are made to save it
India is so rich in history and culture, it would certainly take a lifetime to truly discover it, and then so much would still remain. That this temple remains in Chhattisgarh after a thousand years is a testament to the skill and cultural richness of its builders. I hope to see it one day.
Wow, what a well researched and thoroughly written post – I love that! It’s very interesting and the beautiful picture illustrate it really well. After I’ve seen Hindu temples in other countries, I’d definitely would love to go to India to see treasures like the Bhoram Deo Temple. However, it’s a destination I’d prefer to travel not by myself (exception to the rule…). Chhattisgarh sounds particularly interesting: hiking the Maikal Mountain Range and meeting with the people – honestly hope to do it some day soon.
What a fabulous temple with striking designs. I agree; the surrounding natural beauty really ads to the whole vibe, as far as its overall presentation. India fascinated me when I visited. It is a step back in time in many ways, but when you tend toward urban centers, as hectic as it gets on earth. What a delicious mix.
Ryan
Oh wow.. A thousand-year old temple? That’s so amazing! The Bhoarm Deo Temple is really situated in a serene area. Love the lake near it. Glad that you have written this too. It’ll be a shame if this temple will not be preserved properly.
Loving the sculptures in this temple, they looks so beautiful, and in some cases, a bit freaky. Another one for my India bucket list as I love exploring historical sites and temples like this.
Love the replica of Rudra Statue from Tala Village of Chhattisgarh. Hoping the cracks get repaired, it would be a shame to lose this piece of history
It’s so amazing how much history we have in our country. I have never been to Chhatisgarh but I know there are some really nice temples there and even though I am not religious at all, it’s always mesmerising to hear old stories and origins of such intriguing places and this 1000 year old temple has an equally interesting story as well!
Your article brings out the essence of how life was perceived 1000 years back in that region, as I believe artists and artisans portray their images , keeping in view the current cultural ethos in mind. Frankly speaking , I have never heard of Bhoram Deo Temple. The garland says that the temple is still functional and that is also quite amazing.
Thanks, I learnt something new today.
Such a beautiful temple. The idols are so elaborately carved. I love such detailed posts on temples. Lord Cunningham is absolutely right calling it to be one of the most magnificently decorated temples.
Add a good pinnable image for this.
Every time I see a temple in India, I get more impressed. They put so much effort into building these works of art. The Bhoram Deo is no exception. I could spend hours looking at all those carving and enjoying the craftsmanship.
I really love how much work went into the Bhoram Deo Temple. It is an impressive amount of workmanship. I could spend hours exploring here.
Great know something new in Chattisgarh beyond the usual. I have not been able to do anything in this state unless you count passing through Raipur and Bilaspur on a train during college days!
* The golden hour silhouette is awesome!
How interesting to find the Bhoram Deo Temple in Chhattisgarh standing in the wilderness. What a lovely route to get to it. Fascinating to see such a mix of religious and erotic sculptures. The details in the carvings are stunning.
This temple looks beautiful. I love all of the intricate details in the architecture
I love nature, so love the idea of seeing this temple amidst such a peaceful and beautiful backdrop.
There is no doubt that there are a plethora of temples throughout India. I think only Thailand has more Wats than there are Indian Temples at least from what we witnessed. But what amazed us was all the intricate designs in each & every temple in India. Even the Catholics have bland boring churches but nearly every temple like the Bhoram Deo Temple in Chhattisgarh has such amazing carvings & statues.
I love the tower carvings especially here in the Bhoram Deo Temple. That hand work is truly mind boggling.
This temple looks stunning. It blows my mind that you can just stumble upon a 1000-year-old temple. I hope they’re able to get the funding they need to preserve it!