Indian culture is believed to be thousands of years old. We have several scriptures that teach us about the architectural, medical, engineering, and other scientific techniques that our ancestors used in their times. Our artisans have always been known around the world for their art of storytelling. Similar is the case with temples.
Thousands of years old temples are known for their marvellous structures, strong foundation, and scriptures they boast. A few such centres in India are famous around the globe for flaunting erotic sculptures. These centuries-old images depict people in polygamy and homosexual relations, a few topics that orthodox mindsets believe to be against our culture.
Here are five temples that you must visit for their opulent structure and bold sculptures.
Jain Temple, Ranakpur, Rajasthan
Built in 1436 CE, Ranakpur Jain Temple is among the popular pilgrimage centres for devotees of Tirthankara Rashabhanatha. The three-storeyed structure is made of marble featuring erotic sculptures.
The temple is a house of more than 1400 pillars depicting the intricate art of the worker. The main temple features walls boasting figures of dancing nymphs. Tourists can visit these temples throughout the day, but devotees should visit them in the morning to offer prayers.
Sun Temple, Konark, Odisha
Sun Temple in Konark was built in the 13th century and is among the most famous places tourists visit in Odisha. Dedicated to Lord Surya or Sun God, the walls of the temple display sculptures showcasing human anatomy.
Over the years, a few figures were destroyed and have been preserved in the Archaeological Museum. This temple is also renowned for featuring a 100 ft tall chariot standing on 12 wheels that symbolise 12 months in a year. Learned people will tell you that each wheel is a sundial using which they can accurately read time and make astronomical observations.
Sun Temple, Modhera, Gujarat
Located in Gujarat, the Sun Temple in Modhera is protected under the Archaeological Survey of India. Apart from the main shrine, tourists also visit a step well, an assembly hall, and a reservoir situated nearby.
The walls of the temple showcase human figures indulging in polygamy practices. It also flaunts sculptures depicting homosexual relationships. It was built in 1026-27 CE. Every year, the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat organises a cultural festival for three days. It happens on the premises of the temple in the third week of January.
Don't Miss: Starry Nights In India: Top 5 Stargazing Destinations You Must Visit
Virupaksha Temple, Hampi, Karnataka
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Virupaksha Temple in Hampi, Karnataka has walls showcasing couples in amorous poses. It is the oldest temple in the city and was built in the 7th century.
It is situated near the banks of the Tungabhadra River. Many parts of the temple exist as ruins. It has been declared as the UNESCO World Heritage Site because it has remains of three ancient Indian dynasties.
Don't Miss: Hot Springs At Dhekale: A Lesser Known Place
Khajuraho Temples, Madhya Pradesh
There are 25 meticulously-designed temples in Khajuraho that make it one of the most-visited places in India. Archaeologists believe that they were built a thousand years ago at least, and it took workers centuries to complete the construction.
These temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Vishnu. The walls of the temples boast erotic sculptures engaging in sexual acts. They depict couples practising polygamy and polyandry. They also show bisexual and homosexual figures. If you are planning to visit, you must not miss out on the light and sound show that discusses the history of the place in great detail.
Stay tuned to HerZindagi for more.