Tales of Legacies

A GEM OF 9TH CENTURY ✨

India is a land of ancient temples, sacred places and shrines. Temples are a symbol of peace and belief for Hindus. The temple's main deity is the sculpture of a God or Goddess. Indian temples are known for their intricate sculptures, carvings and ancient paintings. These temples are open to the public and visitors who come to worship and make offerings.

From Kashmir to Kanyakumari we find temples in any corner of the country. Each temple has a history, and the walls have a story of brave warriors or kings to tell the world. The entrance, or dhwaja sthambha, is a gateway that marks the way to the sanctum sanctorum. People visit temples for different reasons, such as pursuing peace, organising family functions, seeking blessings, serving people, etc.

Ancient Hindu temples are unique in their architecture and design. Take for instance, the 64 Yogini temples that are a group of ancient Hindu temples dedicated to the worship of the 64 Yoginis, the female deities of the Tantric tradition. These temples are known for their unique architecture and mystical symbolism, making them a significant part of India's cultural and religious heritage.

Introduction:-

Chausath Yogini Architecture is a distinctive style of temple architecture built during 9th and 11th centuries. These shrines have niches for 64 yoginis (female practitioner of yoga), so they are called Chausath Yogini Temples. These temples are usually dedicated to Shiva or Bhairava, who is placed in the center of the courtyard. The yoginis are depicted as powerful and fierce aspects of the divine feminine, often associated with tantric practices and rituals.

{Drone view of the temple}

Significance of Chausath Yogini Architecture:-

The significance of Chausath Yogini Architecture in the Indian temple tradition lies in its representation of the cosmic energy and the dynamic relationship between Shiva and Shakti. The circular shape of the temple symbolizes the cyclic nature of time and the cosmic order. The yoginis are seen as manifestations of Shakti, who emanate from Shiva and surround him in a protective circle. The yoginis also represent the different aspects of human personality, emotions, desires, and powers.

By worshipping the yoginis, the devotees seek to harmonize their inner and outer worlds and attain spiritual liberation.

Chausath Yogini architecture reflects several socio-cultural and religious aspects of the era in which it was built, providing insights into the prevailing beliefs, practices, and social dynamics of that time.

{The deities of 64 yogini}

Chausath Yogini architecture reflects several socio-cultural and religious aspects of the era in which it was built, providing insights into the prevailing beliefs, practices, and social dynamics of that time:

Goddess Worship and Feminine Divinity:-

Chausath Yogini temples celebrate feminine divinity during that era and are dedicated to the 64 female attendants of the goddess Durga, known as Yoginis. The representation of these powerful female figures emphasizes the concept of Shakti, the divine feminine energy, and recognizes the spiritual power and influence of women.

Yogic and Tantric Influences:-

Yoginis are depicted in yogic postures, reflecting the influence of yogic and tantric traditions during that era. Yoga and meditation were seen as means to attain spiritual enlightenment and transcendence.

Simplicity and Austerity:-

Chausath Yogini temples stand out for their simplicity and austere architectural style. Compared to the temple structures of earlier periods, these temples have a more minimalist design. The absence of ornate superstructures and excessive decoration signifies a shift towards a more simplistic and spiritually focused approach to worship.

Symbolism of Circular Architecture:-

The circular or octagonal plan of Chausath Yogini temples represents the cosmic form of the universe, reflecting the belief in the cyclic nature of time. It symbolizes the chakra, representing the cosmic order and the continuous flow of energy. This embodies a deeper metaphysical understanding and a worldview rooted in cosmic order and balance.

{ Martand Bhairav with Yogini's }

SHRINES OF CHAUSATH YOGINI TEMPLES :-

1} HIRAPUR CHAUSATH YOGINI TEMPLE, BHUBANESWAR , KHORDA , ODISHA

2} 64 YOGINI TEMPLE , RANIPUR JHARIAL , BALANGIR , ODISHA

3} CHAUSATH YOGINI TEMPLE , BHEDAGHAT , MADHYA PRADESH

4} CHAUSATH YOGINI TEMPLE , KHAJURAHO , MADHYA PRADESH

Conclusion:-

Chausath Yogini Architecture holds immense significance in the Indian temple tradition. Its unique circular or octagonal layout, focus on yogini goddesses, and reflection of socio-cultural and religious aspects of the era in which it was built make it a distinct and influential architectural style. The influence of Chausath Yogini Architecture can be observed in subsequent temple designs, solidifying its place in the evolution of Indian temple architecture.

{ The deity of Bhagwati Vinakyaki }