Situated between the Kandariya Mahadev and Jagadambi temples and sharing the same platform, this structure now known simply as Mahadeva, is a much smaller and ruined Siva shrine.
All that remains of the temple today is the portico, the sanctum has completely disappeared. Placed in the middle of the portico is a Sardula (or Vyala).
This is a popular motif and a favourite theme in Chandella and Rajput art. The Sardula consists of a composite leonine creature with the head of a tiger, elephant, bird, or other animal, frequently shown in combat with humans. Here we have a warrior cowering beneath the lion-like monster.
Although now considered a Shiva shrine, it’s thought that originally this may have been a temple to Shiva’s consort, Parvati. This is suggested by its close positioning to the Kandariya Mahadev Temple, and can be considered as an integral part of the same temple-complex.
| Group | Khajuraho Monuments |
|---|---|
| Western | Lakshmana ♦ Varaha ♦ Kandariya Mahadeva ♦ Mahadeva Shrine ♦ Jagadambi ♦ Chitragupta ♦ Parvati ♦ Vishvanatha ♦ Nandi ♦ Pratapeshwar ♦ Bhairava Statue ♦ Matangeshvara ♦ Chausath Yogini ♦ Lalguan Mahadeva ♦ Chopra Tank |
| Eastern | Hanuman ♦ Brahma ♦ Vamana ♦ Javari ♦ Ghantai ♦ Adinatha ♦ Parshvanatha ♦ Shantinatha |
| Southern | Duladeo ♦ Chaturbhuj ♦ Bijamandal |
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Categories: India, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, Mahadeva Shrine, Western Temples Group
Kevin Standage 
The cowering warrior seems to be a female…because of the bun at the ba
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The cowering warrior seems to be a female…because of the hair bun at the back. Would really love to know the story behind the exquisite figures. I had gone to Khajuraho many years ago. But hadn’t learn much about the statues. Amazing posts Kevin!
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Yes ! You’re right ! I’m going to try and find out more about this at some point…
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