Harshnath Temple Complex

Sikar, Rajasthan

By Anchit Jain

Located 14km from the district headquarters and perched atop the Harsha Hill in the Sikar district of Rajasthan, the Harshnath Temple Complex is a protected site under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The complex comprises many architectural remnants from the 10th to 18th century CE. At the heart of the complex, lies the historical Harshnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The architectural marvel built during the second half of the 10th century CE serves as the focal point of the sacred site. An inscription was also found from the hill which is known as the Harshnath stone inscription. According to the inscription, dated 973 CE, the temple was constructed by the Saiva ascetic Bhavarakta, alias Allata, during the reign of the Chahamana (or Chauhan) king Vigraharaja I of Shakambhari lineage.

Surrounding the Harshnath Temple are remnants of other temples, once dedicated to deities like Surya, Vishnu, and various Yoginis, indicating the diverse religious landscape of the site. Most of these were built around the historical temple. Surprisingly, none of these diverse sectarian shrines were recorded in the extensive Harshnath Temple inscription, except for the temple dedicated to Harsha. Apart from these, the complex also comprises a Shiva temple, built by the first chieftain of Sikar, Ras Sahoo Singh in 1718 CE. Some early modern structures also exist in the complex.

The module explores the architectural and cultural history of the site and how it is still part of the religious-cultural narrative of the region. The overview article delves into the historical journey of Harsha Hill turning it into a revered site and complex comprising several shrines. The allied article explores the question of patronage. The module also includes a photoessay, an image gallery and architectural drawings.