Markanda group of temples to get a facelift

 

 

 

DESIGNATED as ‘Khajuraho of Vidarbha’ by several historians and scholars based on its sculptural grandeur and architectural beauty, the experts and conservationists from Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) are now revivifying the ancient Markanda Group of temples, at Chamorshi in Gadchiroli district. The ASI, Nagpur Circle, has already undertaken a massive conservation project of architectural restoration of the monument of national importance. The rejuvenation work is expected to be completed within a year. Situated on the left bank of river Wainganga, about 190 kilometre from Nagpur, the Markanda group of temples date back to 9-12 centuries AD. The main shrine in the group is the temple of Markandadeo which is an important pilgrimage centre in Vidarbha. The cluster of temples of various sizes grouped around the central Markandadeo are enclosed in a quadrangle.

 

These temples belong to ‘Saiva,’ “Vaishnava’ and “Sakta’ faiths. Temples at Markanda have a simple plan, with ‘Ardhamandapa,’ ‘Mandapa,’ ‘Antarala’ and ‘Garbhagriha’ forming the component of the entire set up. All the compartments of temples are inter-connected. Markandadeo temples stand majestically along with ‘Nandi’ pavilion facing west. Almost every surface of the main temple is decorated with sculptures. Pilaster decoration on the temple consists of geometrical ornamentation, conventional foliage, mythical animals, human figures and divine figures at some places. The walls of ‘Markandeshwara’ are studded with three horizontal bands of statues of exquisite grace and charm, which constitute the most attractive feature. The erotic depiction is restricted solely to minor representation on some friezes.

 

The beauty, charm and sensuality of the damsels depicted are a unique feature. These temples were first noticed by Sir Alexander Cunnigham (British Army engineer who took keen interest in the history and archaeology of India. This led to his appointment in 1861 to the newly created position of Archaeological Surveyor to the Government of India. Later, he became the founder of Archaeological Survey of India. Archaeologists told ‘The Hitavada’ that the ‘Shikhara’ and ‘Mahamandapa’ of the main shrine were struck by lightning damaging the both portions two centuries ago. One of the Gond kings had repaired the roof of the hall about 120 years ago. His architect introduced huge piers with radiating arches inside the principal rooms. Along with Markandeshwara, the other temples -- Nandikeshwara, Markundeshwara, Mritunjaya, Yamadharma and Dasavatara – are small and elegant. However, most of these small temples appear to be in a dilapidated condition.

 

Many of them were damaged by either natural disasters or human vandalism. ASI experts are also putting sincere efforts to restore them using scientific methods. The Mrikunda Rishi Temple facing east located to the north-west of the Yamadharma temple is also dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its ‘Sabhamandapa’ has a remarkable square ‘Rangasila’ with profusely carved pillars at the four corners. The exterior of the temple is fully carved with a lofty ‘Sikhara.’ ‘Yamadharma’ is the small temple that stands close to the north of the main temple, facing to the west. Its slender ‘Sikhara’ has a soaring effect with the profusely decorated doorway. The temple of ‘Dasavatara’ (ten incarnations of Vishnu) is an open cloister, placed against the western wall of the main enclosure. It is divided into twelve compartments by pilasters, two of divisions being probably intended for statues of Vishnu and remaining ten for the ‘Avataras.’ The incarnation’s sculptures are lying in and around the temple. Besides the temples there are several curious old square pillars. Nearly all of them are sculptured and some of them are inscribed. The chief figures are soldiers, armed with battle axe bows and quiver full of arrows in an attitude of attack.

 

Historians informed that the architects were influenced by the temple styles prevailing in Central India, Gujarat, Malwa and Karnatak. Marking one of the perfect monuments of Maharashtra's aesthetic sensibility, these temples provide a visual record of the medieval Indian world view which revealed as much in religious symbolism as in the country preoccupations with embellishment of temples. The conservation work of the dilapidated Sikhara and the entire Garbhagriha of the main temple had first started by the ASI in January 2016. It continued in a phased manner. The work was affected due to coronavirus pandemic but ASI experts expressed confidence that the task would be completed before March 31, 2022. The conservation work is being carried out under the supervision of Nandini Sahu, Regional Director (West), ASI, K R K Reddy, Superintending Archaeologist (In-Charge Nagpur Circle), ASI, N D B Kempegoaowda, Assistant Superintending Archaeological Engineer, ASI and Milind Angaitkar, Senior Conservation Assistant, Nagpur Sub-Circle, ASI.