Bijolia Group of Temples: A visual walkthrough
The art and architecture of the Bijolia group of temples showcase remarkable examples of early medieval Indian temple architecture from the 11th to 13th century CE, particularly in the region of Rajasthan. The temples exhibit various architectural styles including Nagara, Bhumija, a variety of Nagara styles and Mishraka.
The Bijolia group of temples include Mahakal Temple, Hazareshwar Temple, Undeshwar Temple and Mandakini Kund (water tank). The temples have a garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), antarala (vestibule or antechamber) and mandapa (pillared hall). The Hazareshwar and Undeshwar temples also have a mukhamandapa (front porch). These temples are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting Hindu deities, mythological scenes, celestial beings, and apsaras and surasundaris (celestial damsels). These sculptures reflect the artistic excellence and religious fervour of the artisans of that era. The water tank has many inscriptions all over its platform, probably from worshippers visiting the temple complex.
The doorframes of the temples are elaborately carved with multi-shakha (vertical band or architrave) designs, floral motifs, and depictions of deities. The ceilings of the temples often feature elaborate designs. The mandapa ceilings, in particular, are known for their large size and intricate artwork of cusped arches and figures of flying gods and goddesses.
Each temple within the Bijolia group boasts unique characteristics that distinguish them from one another. The Mahakal Temple, for instance, is a twin temple featuring two sanctums, one situated to the east and the other to the south. Notably, it includes an underground water tank and intricate jali (lattice) work, adding to its architectural charm. The Hazareshwar Temple, also known as the Swarnajaleshwar Temple, may be modest in size, yet it houses a Shiva linga (aniconic representation of Shiva) adorned with numerous miniature lingas. It is this unique feature of the linga, adorned with hundreds and thousands of lingas, that lends the temple its name, the Hazareshwar Temple. With its Bhumija architecture and mishraka shikhara, it exudes a distinctive appeal. In contrast, the Undeshwar Temple is a Bhumija masterpiece, showcasing the evolved phase of this architectural style with its stellate plan and nine-storied bhumija shikhara. Its external walls are lavishly adorned with depictions both divine and mundane.