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Madhya Pradesh

Khajuraho Light and Sound show

By: VJ Sharma
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We were in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, in October 2021 when the pandemic had relented for a bit and had loved the city. It had the air of tiny, charming hamlets where you could stay for days and relax. It looked like a good place to spend your days and evenings drinking beer in one of the many cafes facing the Western Group of Temples, and just chill. And when it comes to evenings, you should plan to spend at least one watching the sound and light show that is organized in the Western Group of Temples.

The entry for the sound and light show is different from the regular entry of the temples and you will need to walk a little further along the Bamitha road to reach it. We weren't aware of this and kept sitting at Raja Cafe, across the road, waiting for the crowds to gather and for the authorities to allow the entry. However, we realized well in time that we were waiting at the wrong place and then we rushed toward the entrance.

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Madhya Pradesh

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We opted for Hindi show because we felt that it would be a more earthy experience. And we were right about this. The show is recorded in the voice of none other than Mr Amitabh Bachchan himself and is quite spellbinding.

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When you go for the Light and Sound Show, do try to get the front seats because that allows for the best listening and viewing experience.

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The show is organized in the open area surrounded by the various temples in the western group. It would probably get really cold in the winter months so if you happen to visit in November, December, and January, you should ensure that you carry enough woolens and caps and hats to stay warm.

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The sound and light show is about 50 minutes long and the narrator (voiced by Mr Bachchan) is the spirit of one of the sculptors who worked on the construction of these temples. The story is that of the founding of Khajuraho, its development across centuries, its ruin and rediscovery, and the final restoration and the recognition by UNESCO.

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The story also enlightens the viewers about the Chandela Dynasty and their contributions to India's architecture. There are some interesting anecdotes about how Khajuraho got its name and how the temples survived after being abandoned.

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The story also tries to explain or rather justify the presence of the erotic sculptures in the temples. I believe this urge to justify should be abandoned. We should just try to accept that the sculptures are there and not try to find a reason for that. There is beauty in just accepting things.

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The show does seem to stretch after say 20-25 minutes and could easily have been 15 minutes shorter I believe. However, the lighting is quite good and it is haunting to sit in the open surrounded by these imposing temples and have a spirit talk to you. The experience is definitely worth it.