Ghantai temple, Jain temple ruins in Khajuraho, India.
Ghantai temple is a Jain temple ruin in the eastern group of Khajuraho monuments, displaying tall remaining pillars with intricate carved chains and bell motifs. The structure retains elaborate sculptural details that reveal the former grandeur of the building despite its damaged state.
The temple was built around 995 CE during the reign of Chandela king Dhanga and was originally dedicated to the Jain tirthankara Rishabhanatha. This founding period coincided with an era of intense architectural activity across Khajuraho.
The entrance shows an eight-armed Yakshi Chakreswari seated on a Garuda alongside six symbols from the dreams of Mahavira's mother. These figures reflect the importance Jainism placed on female deities and spiritual visions.
The site is open to visitors daily and provides direct access to one of the eastern group ruins at Khajuraho. It makes sense to plan your visit during cooler morning hours, as the location offers little shade.
The building is twice the size of the nearby Parshvanatha temple and features elaborately designed ceiling panels depicting dancers and musicians in the entrance porch. These ceiling decorations remain difficult to view today but represent a remarkable craft achievement of the Chandela period.
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