Bhand Devra Group of Temples, Ramgarh, Rajasthan

Bhand Devra Group of Temples, Ramgarh, Rajasthan

Bhand Devra Group of Temples is a Hindu Temple Complex dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Ramgarh Village in Baran District, in the western Indian state of Rajasthan. The Temple is situated on the banks of a pond in the centre of the 4 Kms wide, which was possibly created by a meteor. The temple was constructed in the style of Khajuraho Group of Monuments. Hence, it is famously called as Little Khajuraho. The temple came to be called as Bhand Devra Temple due to the maithuna sculptures. The temple is now protected by the State Archaeological Department.

History

The temple was built in the 10^th century CE by Raja Malaya Verma of Nag dynasty of Malwa as a memorial of his victory over his enemies as per the inscription available in the temple. The temple was extensively renovated by Raja Trisna Verma of Med dynasty in 1162 CE.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east. The temple was constructed in the style of Khajuraho Group of Monuments and in ruined state. The temple consists of Sanctum, Antrala and Sabha Mandapa with three entrance porches on east, north and south. The pillars of the Sabha Mandapa are richly decorated with sculptures of celestial beings, damsels and amorous couples. The sanctum houses the presiding deity in the form of Shiva Linga within circular yonipitha. The Shikara over the sanctum follows Nagara style. There is a ruined subsidiary shrine to the left side of the main temple. This shrine is facing towards east and follows Nagara style architecture. 

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 15 Kms from Mangrol, 17 Kms from Mangrol Bus Stand, 41 Kms from Baran, 42 Kms from Baran Railway Station, 115 Kms from Kota, 258 Kms from Jaipur Airport and 266 Kms from Jaipur. The temple is well connected by bus and other local transport from Mangrol and Baran.

Location