Previous Year Question
Which of the following temples is also known as Khajuraho of Vidarbha?
Markandeshwar
Kailash
Manudevi
Bhimashankar
Correct Answer: A
Detailed Solution
The Markandeshwar temple complex is situated on the bank of the Wainganga River in the present-day Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra. Because of its exceptionally rich sculptural decoration and intricate figures carved on the exterior walls of the temples, it is known as the ‘Khajuraho of Vidarbha.’
According to a Government account relating to the Archaeological Survey of India, the Markandadeo group of temples belongs to the Nagara style of North Indian temple architecture. On stylistic grounds, these temples are generally dated approximately between the 9th and 12th centuries CE.
The temple complex was not confined to a single religious tradition. Its temples and sculptures contain representations associated with Shaiva, Vaishnava and Shakta traditions. The principal shrine is associated with Lord Shiva, and its name is linked with the sage Markandeya.
The walls of the temples contain elaborate sculptures of deities, celestial beings, dancing figures and various mythological episodes. It is because of this highly ornate sculpture and architecture that the complex is compared with the famous Khajuraho group of temples in Madhya Pradesh.
According to Maharashtra Tourism, the complex originally consisted of 24 temples, of which only a smaller number survive today. This also indicates that Markandeshwar was an extensive temple complex rather than merely an isolated shrine.