Orchha Chaturbhuj Temple
Chaturbhuj Temple Built
upon a massive stone platform and reached by a steep flight of steps. The
temple was specially constructed to enshrine the image of Ram that remained
in the Ram Raja Tempi. Lotus emblems and other symbols of religious significance
provide the delicate exterior ornamentation. Within, the sanctum is chastely
plain with high, vaulted walls emphasizing its deep sanctity.
One of the city’s greatest
attractions is the Chaturbhuj Temple, which is situated right opposite
the Raja Mahal. Dedicated to the four-armed deity, Chaturbhuj (chaturbhuj
literally means four-armed), the temple has plenty of light and space inside,
a feature unusual for a Hindu temple.
This is the temple which
was built originally for Lord Ram. But when legend has it that the queen,
who was bringing the idols of Lord Ram, and Sita, rested outside this temple
for some time as she felt tired. After rest, when she tried to take the
idols, the idols did not move from the place. So, a new temple had been
built around the idols and that is known as Ram Raja temple now.
Located opposite the Raja
Mahal, the Chaturbhuj Temple with its unique concept and luxury of space
is the prime attraction of the city. Dedicated to Chaturbhuj meaning the
four-armed, the temple built in 1558 and 1573 by Raja Madhukar, perched
on a stone platform has marvellous exterior which is a visual delight adorned
with Lotus emblems. The most striking feature of the temple is when one
sees the inside of the temple one will be astonished to find the temple
abounds in light and space which is unlikely of any Hindu temple.
Travel to Orchha and visit
the Charurbhuj temple, constructed between the years 1558 and 1573 by Raja
Madhukar, the Chaturbhuj Temple is a bold concept and as enormous as any
European cathedral. While earlier temples had fairly small enclosures,
the Chaturbhuj Temple has a huge cross-shaped congregation hall that caters
to devotees of the Krishna-Bhakti cult, who throng the complex. Conical
shikharas (spires) crown the sanctuary of the spacious Chaturbhuj Temple,
which is similar to the Kushak Mahal in Chanderi. |