A glimpse into the medieval era
While the Chitragupta Temple shares similarities with the Jagadambi, it boasts its own distinctive charm. Imagine a temple where the ceiling transforms from a square to an octagon and then into a series of diminishing circles. This intricate design is a testament to the architectural ingenuity of the era. The temple unfolds with a familiar layout: an entrance porch leading to a spacious hall, or maha-mandapa, followed by a vestibule and the sanctum.
The heart of the temple holds a captivating sculpture of Surya, the Sun God himself, standing tall at 5 feet. Adorned in high boots and a master of a chariot drawn by seven majestic horses, this deity exudes an aura of power and grace. Be greeted by three smaller yet equally splendid sculptures of Surya grace the ornate lintel of the doorway.
The temple's exterior walls are a canvas of vibrant scenes. Look closely to spot a procession of stone carriers, majestic battles of elephants, hunting scenes, and lively dance sequences. Each carving tells a tale, offering a glimpse into daily life and festivities of the time. A particularly intriguing sculpture is the eleven-headed Vishnu, where the central head represents the god himself, and the remaining heads symbolise his incarnations.
The temple showcases the architectural splendour of the medieval epoch, leaving spectators in awe of its intricate craftsmanship. Admire the minutely detailed carvings that depict gods, goddesses, celestial beings, and scenes from everyday life, and fall in love with the skill and artistry of its creators.