Khajuraho Jain Temples
The ancient temple site of Khajuraho (Hindi: खजुराहो) in Chhatarpur District of Madhya Pradesh is one of the most popular temple complex in India and consists of a large group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples. The name Khajuraho, ancient "Kharjuravāhaka", is derived from the Sanskrit words kharjura, which means "date palm" and vāhaka, which denotes "one who carries".
All Jain temples of the Khajuraho site are now enclosed within a compound wall, constructed in early 20th century, with the exception of the Ghantai temple. Of the Jain buildings mainly three temples are of special art historical interest:
- Parshvanath temple contains an inscription of 954 CE of builder Pahil, mentioning donation of gardens and requesting future generations to safeguard the temple. It mentions Chandella Dhanga as the reigning king.
- Adinath Temple contains an idol with an inscription dated Samvat 1215 during the rule of Chandella king Madanavarman.
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Shantinath Temple is a modern composite structure that incorporates sections of several temples. It has several shrines. The main section has a idol of Lord Shantinath with an inscription of Samvat 1085.