Exploring the Wonders of Khajuraho and the Wilds of Panna Tiger Reserve
Snigdha
Noida - NCR
Hari Aum!
I have always experienced that any trip with Mata ji and Manish ji is always a pleasurable, as well an educative trip and we were fortunate again to get an opportunity to visit Khajuraho Temples and Panna Tiger Reserve from 17th-20th March 24. Maa’s divine presence made our yatra very meaningful and purposeful as well as enjoyable.
One of the most popular tourist destinations of India, Khajuraho has the largest group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples. One cannot describe the beautiful amalgamation of science, art and philosophy that it depicts. It has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The complex of Khajuraho represents a unique artistic creation, as much for its highly original architecture; the high quality sculpted intricacies made up of mythological representation of numerous scenes, inspiring creativity to interpret them in various ways, sacred or profane. Built by the Chandela dynasty between 950 -1050 AD, these temples represent various forms of Meditation, Spiritual teachings and relationships through stimulating art which makes one leave in awe and wonder.
These temples are divided into three groups; Eastern, Western and Southern. In the Western group of temples, we find the temples of Lakshman ji. Kandariya Mahadev ji, Lord Vishnu ji and Varaha with marvellous sculptures engraved on the interior and exterior walls. The main attraction of this place is a huge Shiv ling. The outer sections of the walls depict the sculptures of Gods, Goddesses and Hindu mythological creatures - hybrid of wolf and lion and hybrid of elephant and lion. Some sculptures at the Khajuraho monuments are dedicated to Lord Vishnu ji, Lord Sun, Lord Ganesh ji. The Varaha temple enshrines a colossal monolith of ‘Varaha’ with six heads and a dancing Lord Ganesh ji showcasing marvellous moves and emotions captured on stone!
These temples have been built in the Nagara style of architecture. They showcase that period of Indian history, when Hindu art and devotion reached their apex. For example, their soaring Shikhara were meant to resemble the peaks of Himalayas, the abode of Lord Shiv ji. In fact, these temples were designed to inspire the viewer towards the highest human potential of the material world, from desire and lust to Moksh. The vast majority of art depict the various aspects of everyday life - for example, women putting on make-up, musicians playing music, potters, farmers etc. These show the medieval custom, tradition and their respect to women. Khajuraho temples are a living embodiment of ancient India’s artistic and Spiritual pursuit.
Located at a distance of 96 kilometres from Khajuraho, Panna National Park is home to wide range of species of birds, tigers, deer and antelopes. We, along with Mata ji and Manish ji undertook the jungle safari to experience a thrilling adventure through beautiful canyons and dense Teak trees. The variety of flora and fauna is quite fascinating to observe. First one hour into the jungle, we witnessed the peak of nature in a very serene atmosphere. We saw baboons jumping from trees to trees, spotted deer in groups, antelopes, sambars, peacocks and elephants. We were very keen to see the ‘Big Jungle Cat”. The guide in the safari jeep told us that very lucky few get a chance to see the tiger. There are 86 tigers in the park and this is a famous Tiger Reserve of India. Our joy knew no bounds when we witnessed a big tiger happily resting on the road side. It was an 8yr old male tiger, what a sight to see! En-route our return journey, another tiger was seen lazing on the road side. It was due to Maa’s presence that made it possible for us to see 2 tigers during one safari visit.
The trip to Khajuraho showed us the peak of evolution on one side and the peak of nature on the other. I have to observe where I stand in this scenario.
Hari Aum!