Karitalai Archeological Site – The Monuments

Karitalai Archeological Site – The Monuments

Karitalai Village houses few ancient remains of Hindu Temples, Jain Temples, large number of loose sculptures and architectural fragments. All  these remains are dated to Kalachuri period (10^th – 12^th century CE).

Vishnu Varaha Temple:

There is a ruined ancient temple complex of Varaha in this village. This temple complex enshrines an image of Varaha made of red stone of Kalachuri period (10^th century CE). The temple complex also has a huge Shiva Linga, images of Hindu deities, architectural fragments and Jain related images.

Idols of Kachcha and Machcha:

There are two ancient sandstone idols of tortoise (Kachcha) and fish (Machcha) kept at the gates of government school. Kachcha and Machcha are considered to be incarnations of Lord Vishnu. It is said that these idols were brought from the ancient ruins of Vishnu Varaha Temple situated in this village.

Jain Ruins:

There are few ruins of Jain temples to the northern side of the village. It also houses ruins of few Hindu temples. Sculptures of Jain Thirthankara, Hindu deities, Yaksha & Yakshini and architectural fragments (pillars, lintels, brackets, sculptures etc.) can be seen among the ruins. Around 33 sculptures from this village were preserved in Raipur and Jabalpur Museums.