SOME SHRINES SUPERB - 
A Bird's Eye - View

DEOGARH - DASAVATARA MANDIR

On the bank of Betwa in the state of Uttara Pradesh lies this ancient Dasavatara temple considered as a gem of the sculptured architectural marvel on the fifth century. It is a shrine dedicated to Sri Mahavishnu, but went by the name of Dasavatara temple due to profusion of Vishnu images in all his incarnations carved out superbly on wall panels, ceilings, lintels, and pillars. The temple has four entrances provided with flights of stair on all sides. Much of its splendour in architecture although disappeared due to ravages of time, there are traces of excellent plan, particularly in the plinth, adorned with. relief panels that reveal its frontier glory. The execution of wall panels rich with hoary legends delineating Mahavishnu's sports is beyond the range of words. Among them, Gajendra moksha merits mention. Art-critics bewitched by their artistry lavished praises and classed the temple as a sculptural paradise of eternal glory. This monument though in ruins is attracting a steady stream of visitors throughout the year. Like Konark of Orissa, this ancient shrine is casting irresistable attraction both on paryatakas and asthikas bringing credit to Indian art.

It lies about 10 km off Jakhlawn and 20 km front Lalitpur, accessible by bus from both these town.

[ Back ] [ Up ] [ Next ]