| The
Dance Festival of Khajuraho |
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| The
temples of Khajuraho are an expression of Indian sculptors of yore.
A World Heritage site, these temples of Khajuraho were built by
the Chandela kings following the tradition of Tantric art. Although
famed for their erotic sculptures, the philosophy behind the temples
is much more vast and encompassing. They are in fact a celebration
of life! |
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The construction
of Khajuraho temples began in the reign of King Yasovarman. Eighty
five of these temples were built of which around twenty two survive
today. These temples are divided into three geographical blocks: the
western, eastern and the southern. The western block is the biggest
and the richest in artistry.
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The sheer
elegance and grace seems to have been chiseled by the craftsmen. Their
patient hands have transformed even the mundane to excellence, from
a maiden stretching her limbs in the morning, to one wringing water
out of her hair after a bath to a surasundari taking out a thorn out
of the sole of her foot. Besides erotic sculptures there are court
scenes and scenes of battle and advice to the citizens of the kingdom.
It is very interesting to note the tremendous eye for detail in these
sculptures like the depiction of strained muscles and cuts on the
calf muscles or the biceps.
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Every
year the spirit of these marvelous sculptures is celebrated in the
form of Khajuraho Dance Festival, in which artistes from all over
the country perform here. This include traditional Indian dances which
are a feast to the eyes. One can appreciate all the dance forms of
India in one place. It is once in a life-time experience.
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Express
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