Madan Kamdev, Archaeological site in Kamrup district, India
Madan Kamdev is an archaeological site on the Devangiri hill near Baihata Chariali in Kamrup district, Assam. Its ruins lie on a circular stone platform of rough dark grey and brown blocks, where carved slabs and broken fragments are scattered. At the centre-rear stands a rounded, dome-like stone structure, with a small pillared pavilion behind it to the right; larger carved stones are stacked on the left.
The temple complex was built between the 9th and 12th centuries during the Pala Dynasty period. It contains the remains of more than twenty religious structures that were dedicated to the god Shiva.
Despite the name, Kamdev is not worshipped here; the temple is dedicated to Shiva, and the paired Shiva-Parvati image is venerated. The name likely comes from the erotic carvings on the temple walls and scattered around the site. The site is also called the Khajuraho of Assam for these sculptures.
The site is located roughly 40 kilometers from Guwahati and is easily accessible via National Highway 52. Visitors can explore the grounds daily and should wear comfortable shoes since the terrain is uneven.
The name Madan Kamdev is misleading: the temple was dedicated to Shiva, not to Kamdev, and the name likely comes from the erotic sculptures carved on its walls. The site has been called Assam's Khajuraho for these figures. A six-headed Bhairav and a four-headed Shiva are among the statues found here.
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