MP Diaries: Ashapuri, A ruined Capital City
Ashapuri is one of the best kept secrets of Madhya Pradesh. Being very close to the capital city of Bhopal and located between two of the most prominent tourist places of Bhimbetka and Bhojpur, this place is hardly visited by tourists. We too were unaware of this place until a board at Midway Retreat in Bhimbetka displayed it. A quick research about the same on google helped us gather more information. We were more than happy to visit this place as it was located on the way to our next destination of Bhojpur. The sign board put up by Madhya Pradesh Tourism made it easier for us to reach this place, which is located about 22 km from Bhimbetka towards Bhojpur.
Ashapuri was the temple laboratory of the Pratihara and Paramara clans during 9th century AD. The numerous temples that are now in ruins bear a testimony to this. As we entered the Bhootnath temple complex, the care taker walked down the steps towards us with the visitors book in hand. After gathering details from us, he doubled up as our guide. As we maneuvered through the ruins, we stumbled upon the main temple complex of Bhootnath, built on the banks of a lake. The complex houses 26 uniquely styled temples of varying proportions. The locals are bound to the belief that this place was razed to dust by Mughals and hence is in ruins. The site is well maintained by the ASI and temples are systematically numbered from 1 to 26. Temple number 5 is the main temple of this complex and is dedicated to Bhootnath (Lord Shiva). The remains of this temple speaks volumes about the art and architecture of Pratiharas, who contributed majorly towards the temple construction. A large number of idols and other segments of the temples, most of which are partially damaged are kept spread wide across the temple complex, while many others are displayed at the museum nearby.
Our guide also mentioned about the presence of another temple dedicated to Goddess Durga at a fair distance (about 400 meters) from the Bhootnath complex. This temple too lies in a ruined state with fragments of idols spread across the temple. Just outside the Bhootnath temple complex is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Hereon, we drove towards the museum during lunch time and realised it was closed. We inquired about directions to another temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Billota temple at the entrance of the village. Unfortunately, this temple too was closed. A big Shiva linga is seen outside the temple with many small lingas carved on it, called as the Sahasralinga. A beautifully carved but broken pillar base is also seen in this complex, with a carving that exhibits the various avatars of Lord Vishnu. Thus ended our exploration. It is good to know that a joint effort has been initiated by Madhya Pradesh Government in collaboration with the World Monuments Fund towards restoring Ashapuri back to its glory.
Distance from the nearby town: 36 km from Bhopal.
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| Ruins of Ashapuri with lake in the background |
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| Pink Lotus |
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| Remains of BhootnathTemple |
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| Andhakasura form of Shiva |
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| Sapthamatrikas |
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| Ruins all the Way |
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| Goddess Durga Temple |
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| Lord Brahma |
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| Shiva Temple, Billota |
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| Sahasralinga |
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| Parshuram (6th Avatar of Lord Vishnu) |
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| Vamana (5th Avatar of Lord Vishnu) |
Accommodation: There are no accommodation options here. The best would be to plan for an overnight stay at Bhopal.
Where to eat: The nearest eateries are about 6 km from here, at Bhojpur.
References:
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I already like the way MP promotes its tourism and the way they preserved these ruins is appreciable. Great coverage on the site and nice photos... I just wonder how they got mind to destroy these artistic marvels. Good leaning about this place from you
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Madhya Pradesh does seem to take a keen interest in their history.
Lovely images and narration.
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AnonymousFebruary 19, 2017 at 11:24 AM
Wonderful discovery as it were we missed it totally in the darkness
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Thank you for sharing about Ashapuri, exploring such hidden gems and sharing about it inspires others to visit this place. Hope this place gets resorted back to its glory soon and we get a glimpse of its glory in the past..
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Very interesting place. I am glad you brought this to our notice.
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AnonymousFebruary 25, 2025 at 2:20 AM
Hame esha lagta he ki ye jammu &kashmir ka pakistan or hindustan
He jiski koi border nahi he inhe dekhne ke baad hume esha lagta he jese ki poora world ishme samahit he
AnonymousFebruary 25, 2025 at 3:21 AM
Bhakto me mata aashapori hu me chetavni deti hu ki Mere mandir ke paas koi nirmad ya mere mandir par koi dusra mandir nya mandir nahi banega jo 1000 saal pehlye the veshs hi rahega nahi to tumhara sab log ka bura hoga or tum sab log mere honye dushman rahoge
ReplyAnonymousFebruary 25, 2025 at 3:26 AM
Bhkto mata je khe rahi he ki koi bhi naya kaam nahi karega jish jagha par jeshi chiz rakhi he vo veshi hi rakhi rahegi koi kuch mandir nahi banega ya tum mujhe bhart or pakistan ki border samajh lo
Jonye dushman
MP Diaries: Bhimbetka, A gateway to Ancient Civilisation
Long ago, during one of our visits to Hampi, we were fortunate to visit the pre-historic site of Anegundi (Koppal district), Karnataka. Ever since then, our interest with regards to pre-historic cave paintings only grew and any search relevant to pre-historic cave paintings in India would lead us first to the site of Bhimbetka in Madhya Pradesh. Though visiting Bhimbetka did not happen too soon, we have had a chance to visit many such interesting sites in Karnataka. Bhimbetka is India's most renowned pre-historic site and unlike other sites across India, this place has been very well documented and studied even today. Bhimbetka is the largest pre-historic site in India and the only such to have been inscribed on the list of UNESCO world heritage sites. This place was under continuous human occupation from lower Paleolithic period till the early 19th century AD.
On the 29th of December 2016, we drove down from Mandu to Bhopal, via Indore and Dewas. A good six hour drive brought to us Bhopal. It was around 2 am and our hunt for accommodation at this hour brought us to Hotel Midland. After a hard bargain, we negotiated a good deal and settled down for the night. We woke up considerably late the next morning after getting the much needed rest. We were ready to hit the road again after a quick Poha and Sev for breakfast. In an hour we reached Midway Retreat, located 3 km away from Bhimbetka. A cup of hot tea was only thing in between us and the cave paintings. The book of Bhimbetka-World Heritage Series quotes, "Bhimbetka's uniqueness lies not only in the concentration of its antiquity and art, and the wealth that it conceals, but that it has not remained frozen in time and space. Elements of this continuity are manifest in the creative expressions that show affinity to great antiquity in the traditional lifestyles of the adivasis of the area integral to Bhimbetka and the surrounding region". There are over 1400 rock shelters here, of which about 700 carry cave paintings, while only 15 among them are open to the public. The rest are located inside the Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary. The 15 rock shelters are prefect representatives of Bhimbetka.
Rock Shelter No.1 - This shelter has a few paintings mostly of historic period. Here we can see the paintings of two elephants and a bull, wounded by the arrow of a hunter.
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| Walk-way |
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| Welcome to Bhimbetka |
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| Paintings in Rock Shelter No.1 |
Rock Shelter No.3 - This cave is also called as the 'auditorium cave' due to this long shape. This shelter has paintings of bull, buffaloes, deer, peacock, left hand print of a child and many such. There are many cupules (depressions) on stone, probably associated with Paleolithic period.
Rock Shelter No.4 - This shelter is known as the 'zoo rock' and is the most important rock shelter here. There are 453 figures here, comprising of 252 animals of 16 species. The paintings here belong to the Mesolithic, Chalcolithic and historic periods. There are as many as ten layers of super-imposed paintings which is a unique and the most important feature of this cave.
Rock Shelter No.6 - This shelter contains beautifully depicted, natural looking animal drawings, group of dancers, drummers and horse riders in white color. An interesting drawing is that of a group of dancers in a line, shown with interlocking hands.
Rock Shelter No.7 - This shelter contains paintings of horse riders and a row of deers in stylized form, belonging to historic period.
Rock Shelter No.8 - This is one of the important shelters here and the only one comprising drawings of scorpions, fowls and other insects. This is a two storeyed cave with paintings all across its ceilings. There is a scene depicting seven cavaliers accompanied by three foot soldiers, a horse, an old woman, a panther, a jungle fowl, two chicks and insects. Other paintings here exhibit various scenes of hunting, dancing, and other daily rituals.
Rock Shelter No.9 - The only shelter here having paintings depicted in green and yellow colors. Most of the paintings here belong historic period. There are paintings of a horse, an elephant and a flower pot.
Rock Shelter Nos.2,5,10 - These shelters carry only one painting each.
Rock Shelter No.11 - The paintings of this shelter depict scenes from war, most of them showing men on horses carrying swords or spades.
Rock Shelter No.12 - This is another interesting shelter with an attractive composition of 38 animals drawn, along with various other paintings.
Rock Shelter No.13 - There are a few paintings here depicting humans engrossed in there daily activities.
Rock Shelter No.14 - There are few paintings of animals, the most beautiful of them is that of a horse painted in white and decorated with a honeycombed pattern.
Rock Shelter No.15 - This shelter is also called as the 'boar rock' due to the presence of a huge painting of a mythical boar like animal chasing a human. Apart from this, many other animals and humans are depicted in the shelter here.
Entrance Fee: Rs.50/- per head for Indian Citizens and Rs.200/- per head for others. Rs.250/- for car entry including parking.
Distance from nearby major town: 45 km from Bhopal.
Accommodation: The only option for accommodation at Bhimbetka is Midway Retreat maintained by MPSTDC. A better idea would be to plan for an overnight stay at Bhopal.
Where to eat: Midway Retreat is the only closest option here for food and drinks. There are a few eateries after we reach the highway which is about 4 km from Bhimbetka rock shelter. Carry enough water as there are no facilities for the same once you enter the rock shelter.
References:
1. Bhimbetka - World Heritage Series by ASI.
Related Posts:
1. Usgalimal - Rock engraving in Goa
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| Paintings in Auditorium Cave |
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| Left Hand Print of a Child |
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| Cupules |
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| Zoo Rock |
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| Row of Dancers |
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| Men Riding Horse and Carrying Weapons |
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| Cavaliers |
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| Paintings of Rock Shelter No.8 |
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| Horse Painting |
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| Flower Pot Painted in Yellow |
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| Painting in Rock Shelter No.2 |
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| War Scenes |
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| Paintings of Rock Shelter no.12 |
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| Humans Engrossed in Their Daily Activities |
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| Horse Decorated With Honeycombed Pattern |
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| Mythical Boar Like Animal Chasing a Human |
Distance from nearby major town: 45 km from Bhopal.
Accommodation: The only option for accommodation at Bhimbetka is Midway Retreat maintained by MPSTDC. A better idea would be to plan for an overnight stay at Bhopal.
Where to eat: Midway Retreat is the only closest option here for food and drinks. There are a few eateries after we reach the highway which is about 4 km from Bhimbetka rock shelter. Carry enough water as there are no facilities for the same once you enter the rock shelter.
References:
1. Bhimbetka - World Heritage Series by ASI.
Related Posts:
1. Usgalimal - Rock engraving in Goa
10 comments:
Amazing...A must go place for art lover like me. It is interesting just to observe how art has evolved.
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There are so many paintings there. Seems like people who drew them just painted them as they saw things in real time!
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How many kilometers it is from Bhopal ? Very good place to visit
ReplyHello Yogi..Bhimbetka is 45 km from Bhopal.
MP Diaries - The Baobab, Mandu Ki Imli
Mandu, apart from being well
known for its rich heritage is also significant for the presence of a good
number of Baobab (Adansonia Digitata)
trees. Unlike other locations in India where the trees are present either
singly or up to a maximum of three in number, Baobab trees can be sighted across
the length and breadth of Mandu. Being native to Africa, they are considered as
one of the very ancient and longest living trees. These trees also find a
mention in the Hindu epic of Mahabharata. An African folk-tale claims that their
consorted shapes were caused by an angry deity plucking the tree from the ground
and thrusting it back in again upside down. Hence, they are also called as
upside-down trees with their branches resembling the roots after they shed their
leaves. The Baobab trees have an incredible quality of storing water in their
trunks in high capacities and hence are a lifeline to the locals of the tropical
regions of Africa. The Africans consider the Baobab as sacred and refer to it
as the ‘Tree of Life’. This tree possesses amazing medicinal properties and is of great nutritive
value. Apart from providing shelter,
water and food to many, every part of its tree proves useful in many ways. It
is truly the tree of life. The Baobab is locally known as ‘Imli’ (tamarind),
or ‘Bada Imli (Big tamarind) in Mandu and is popularly referred to as ‘Mandu
ki Imli’.
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| Baobab Tree Welcoming us to Mandu |
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| Bare Baobab Tree with only Fruits |
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| Baobab Tree Inside Baz-Bahadur's Palace Complex |
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| Upside-Down Tree |
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| Malik Mughith Mosque and the Baobab |
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| Baobab Reflection in Somvati Kund |
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| Probably the Largest and the Oldest Baobab Tree we saw |
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| Mandu Ki Imli |
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| Baobab Fruit on Sale |
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| Value Added Products from Baobab Fruits |
References:
1.AFRICA Natural Spirit of the African Continent- By Gill Davies
Related Posts:
13 comments:
So interesting. They have a fake tree inspired by this at Disneyworld Orlando if I remember correctly.
ReplyYes you are right Christine..they do.
Interesting facts about Baobab! Its like kalpavriksh where every part of the tree is used..:)
ReplyBaobab trees are amazing. Specially the ones found in Madagascar. I found the ones in India, much different to those in Africa.
BuyMaps
ReplyYes ajeya..we think it depends on the climatic and environmental conditions..
These Baobabs are part of our heritage and need to be protected. We are fighting in saving an OLD Baobab in Hyderabad Nanakramguda....
ReplyGood work...hoping your sincere efforts will really save that baobab tree. Sadly, every city today is facing the crisis of deforestation due to urbanization..
MP Diaries - Mandu, Symbol of Immortal Love
Mandu is the largest fortified area
in India, second only to the great city of Hampi. This romantic city
which is also well known for its history is situated about 37 km from Maheshwar.
Mandu has also been known by various names previously such as
Mandapa-Durga and Mandavagarh. The original fort was built by Paramara
kings in 6th century AD. This region attained unparalleled
glory, especially under Kings Munja and Raja Bhoj who ruled from both
Ujjain and Dhar. Mandu was founded as a fortress and retreat by Raja
Bhoj and later King Jayavaram transferred the seat of the Paramara from
Dhar to Mandu, finally falling into the hands of Khilji of Delhi
Sultanate. Mandu came on its own later under Hoshang Shah who shifted
his capital from Dhar to Mandu and renamed Mandu as Shadiabad - City of
Joy. Even amidst his arduous wars with the neighboring powers, Hoshang
Shah raised the architectural splendor of the kingdom to its greatest
heights. A period of expansion and prosperity was witnessed under the later rulers, Mahmud Shah and Ghiyasuddin,
until the end of 14th century AD. In the next century, Mandu collided
with various kingdoms of Gujarat and Rajasthan. A series of deadly
warfare followed there after and one such change led to Baz-Bahadur
assuming power. Baz-Bahadur almost gave up fighting after being
overpowered by Rani Durgavati during one of the wars. He devoted himself
to music in which the famous and beautiful Rani Rupmati proved to be
his most loving associate and consort. The selfless and devoted love
between them even today is a favorite theme in the folk songs of Malwa.
Rani Rupmati is said to have
committed suicide rather than succumb to the powerful army of Akbar. In
late 17th century this fort came under the control of Marathas under
Malhar Rao Holkar and from then on remained under the Marathas.
Rupmati’s
Pavilion: Rupmati’s/Roopmati’s pavilion
is situated atop the hill to the south of Baz-Bahadur’s palace overlooking the
Nimar valley. It is believed that Rani Rupmati, Baz-Bahadur’s beloved enjoyed the view of the much revered river Narmada from this pavilion. The arched pavilion is a
Baradari, a building with 12 doors with 3 doorways on every side and is crowned
by a fluted dome.
Baz-Bahadur’s Palace: To the east
of Rewa Kund is the Baz-Bahadur’s Palace, built on the hill slope. A Persian
inscription on its entrance arch states that the palace was built by Nasiruddin
in 1508 AD. The palace has a spacious courtyard with a beautiful water tank at
its center fed by Rewa Kund. It is quite interesting to know that Rewa Kund situated
close by, was frequently visited by Rani Rupmati, which justifies the king’s choice
of this place as his palace.
Rewa-Kund: This is a reservoir
built by Baz-Bahadur whose origin is associated with the love story of
Baz-Bahadur and Rupmati.
Jali Mahal: Jali Mahal is a
tomb built on a square plan with three arched openings on each side.
Except for the entrance, the arches on the other three sides are filled
with latticed screens carrying various geometric/ornamental patterns
giving this tomb the name Jali Mahal.
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| Mandu Ravines |
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| Rupmati's Pavilion |
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| Baz-Bahadur's Palace |
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| Rewa-Kund |
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| Jali Mahal |
Malik Mugith's/ Malik Mughith's Mosque:
This
mosque was built by Malik Mugith, father of Mahmud Khilji in 1432 AD.
The
projecting front porch of the mosque built on a high plinth is now
mostly in ruins. The exterior
walls are in the form of an arcade at the lower level while colonnades
are seen in the corridors inside. It is
clearly evident from the pillars of the corridor that the mosque was
built by utilizing materials from destroyed
Hindu temples/buildings, which is considered as the first phase of
Muslim
architecture in Malwa. The mosque houses three domes above its main
portion with turrets at the corners. During our visit, restoration work
was in progress to
save the remnants of the structure.
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| Mosque of Malik Mughith |
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| Caravan Sarai |
Dai-Ki-Chhoti-Behan-Ka-Mahal: This tomb associated with a lady is
built on a highly raised double terraced platform in an octagonal plan with
four entrance arches and is crowned by a dome. Remains of blue tiles with which
the dome was originally decorated with, is clearly visible.
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| Dai-Ki-Chhoti-Behan-Ka-Mahal |
Dai-Ka-Mahal: This is a tomb of a lady and stands on a high
platform having rooms with arched openings. The tomb is square in plan. The
lower portion of the dome is octagonal in shape and is decorated with miniature
arches while small projecting structures are seen at the corners.
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| Dai-Ka-Mahal |
Lal-Bagh: A beautiful garden and pavilion, with traces of cisterns
and cascades laid during the Mughal rule.
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| Lal-Bagh |
Hathi Mahal (Elephant Palace): The Hathi Mahal is a mausoleum with
its name being attributed to the enormous pillars that resemble the legs of an
elephant, supporting the dome above.
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| Hathi Mahal |
Darya Khan's Main Tomb: The most beautiful structure in Mandu is
the tomb dedicated to Darya Khan. This tomb is built of red sand stone in a
square plan. There is a Darya Khan Mosque, Sarai Kothari, Kharbush Tomb and
Somvati Kund nearby the Main tomb.
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| Darya Khan's Tomb |
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| Sarai Kothdi |
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| Jami Masjid |
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| Tomb of Hoshang Shah |
Ashrafi Mahal (Madrassa) and Tower of Victory: Khilji built the
Madrassa (school) facing the mosque (Jami Masjid), which is now deserted. It
also has the Tower of Victory, originally a seven storeyed tower built in
celebration of victory over an enemy which is now in ruins with only one storey having
managed to survive.The tomb of Mahmud Khilji is also situated in this complex.
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| Tower of Victory |
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| Khilji's Tomb |
Jahaz Mahal (Ship Palace): This magnificent palace standing between
two man-made lakes of Munj and Kapur is beautifully designed. The palace resembles
a ship floating on water and hence the name. The interconnected
water-ways/channels from the lake to the water ponds of the Mahal and its
garden is fascinating.
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| Jahaz Mahal |
Kolhu (Crusher): Kolhu was a very popular traditional device used
for crushing solid materials into smaller pieces, usually manually or animal
driven. Different materials such as lime stone, jaggery, and other building
materials were mixed together and crushed/ground to form a uniform powder which was
then used for construction purpose.
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| Kolhu |
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| Gadashah's Shop |
Ancient Baoli: A beautiful well belonging to the Paramara period.
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| Ancient Baoli |
Hindola Mahal (Swinging Palace): This mahal is 'T' shaped in plan
and has sloping side walls by virtue of which it is also known as the Swinging
Palace and served as an audience hall. The exteriors are mostly plain with
two-storeyed arches placed between huge pillars that slope inward. The
overhanging balconies are enclosed (jharokhas) and carry on them floral
carvings and lattice designs.
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| Hindola Mahal |
Champa Baoli and Royal Palace: This is an underground well that served
as a reservoir. Square in shape, it is surrounding by eight arches that giving
it a circular appearance. This place was used by the royal ladies as a summer
retreat. The Royal palace is very big building where the royal family resided.
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| Champa Baoli |
Hammam (The Bath): The Hammam houses separate waterways for supply
of hot and cold water. The queens enjoyed a luxurious bath here. The ceiling of
the hammam is dome like, having circular and star shaped perforations for light
to pass through and hot steam to pass out. The techniques used for water flow
system into the Hammam are quite intriguing.
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| Domed Roof Hammam |
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| Sunset Behind the Jal Mahal |
Darwazas (Gateways): The 40 km long fort wall that encircles the
city of Mandu houses 12 Darwazas or Gateways, notable ones being the Tarapur
Gate, Jahangirpur Gate, Rampol Darwaza, Delhi Darwaza, Alamgir Darwaza and
Bhangi Darwaza.
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| Tarapur Gate |
Distance from the nearby Major Town: 90 km from Indore
Entrance Fee: A fixed entrance fee is charged to visit the Royal
Enclave, Jami Masjid and Rupmati's Mahal. Rs 15/- for Indian Tourists and Rs
200/- for Foreigners, an additional fee is charged for video shooting.
Accommodation: We didn't stay here, but there are many options for
accommodation here. The better ones are the Malwa Resort and Malwa Retreat,
both maintained by MPSTDC.
Where to eat: We had lunch in Malwa Retreat, a multi cuisine
restaurant and our lunch bill was around Rs.700/-. Food was good and tasty.
Card payments are accepted.
References:
1. The Guide to the Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent - By Takeo Kamiya
2. RBS Visitors Guide India-"Madhya Pradesh"
3. Latest Tourist Guide Mandu - By J.P.Sharma
References:
1. The Guide to the Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent - By Takeo Kamiya
2. RBS Visitors Guide India-"Madhya Pradesh"
3. Latest Tourist Guide Mandu - By J.P.Sharma
Related Posts:
SupportVeterans
ReplyBeautiful landscapes and historical buildings.
The ceiling of the bath looks very innovative. It must be lovely to see moonlight filter through those circles and stars.
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Very detailed post. Enjoyed reading.
Thanks for sharing, Mandu is high on my agenda
MP Diaries - Maheshwar, Fashion Carved in Stone
Maheshwar stands
as a brilliant
example of Maratha architecture portraying marvelous geometric symmetry,
which
is truly a feast for the eyes. The sculptures and carvings on stone
simply exhibit
the excellent craftsmanship the ancient men possessed. The decorative
friezes
at the base of the platform, sculptures of dwarapalakas (door-keepers)
on either sides of the door, corbels
carved in the form of statues depicting various men and women with a
variety of
attire and ornaments, musicians, dancers and the intricate carvings of
lattice designs and floral patterns on the walls are most impressive
and carved to
perfection. Below are some of the exceptional statuettes of men and
women found in the courtyard of Vithoji's Chhatri/Cenotaph. The unique
clothing styles, patterns and ornamentation epitomizes the fashion
statement of their period.
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| A Bearded Man with his Better-Half |
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| Door-Keeper |
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| A Musician Playing the Bugle |
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| A Stylish Couple |
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| Lord Krishna with his Lover Radha |
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| Lord Krishna with Radha and Rukmini |
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| A Dancing Couple |
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| Couple with a Child - Team G Cube !!! |
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| Musicians Playing the Shehnai and Dhol |
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| Peacock Admiring the Beauty of a Lady |
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| An Englishman seen holding Parrots |
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| A Lady in Maheshwari Saree (Striped Saree) |
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| A Godly Woman |
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| Take a Closer Look |
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| Soldier with a Dagger |
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| Musicians Playing the Mridangam and Been |
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| A British Lady |
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Thanks for sharing, nice post! Post really provice useful information!
An Thái Sơn chia sẻ trẻ sơ sinh nằm nôi điện có tốt không hay võng điện có tốt không và giải đáp cục điện đưa võng giá bao nhiêu cũng như mua máy đưa võng ở tphcm địa chỉ ở đâu uy tín.
MP Diaries - Maheshwar, Sanctified by Faith
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| Maheshwar, Sanctified by Faith |
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| Entering the Fort |
A temple exhibiting typical North Indian style of architecture and
stands in neglect, is dedicated to the four armed Lord Naryana (Lord
Vishnu). As this temple was closed during our visit, we were unable to
witness the temple interiors.
Raja Rajeshwar Temple
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| Chaturbhuj Naryana Temple |
This temple complex is situated close to the Ahileshwar temple (main
temple). There are many temples in this complex, most of which are
dedicated to Lord Shiva. One such, seemed lively with a lot of action
happening in terms of rituals and offering prayers. There is an idol of
the king Sahasrarjuna in the temple.
Ahileshwar temple
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| Raja Rajeshwar Temple |
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| King Sahasrarjuna |
The Ahileshwar temple is a multi-tiered temple distinguished by its
carved overhanging balconies and intricately carved doorways. This
temple is dedicated to Lord Rama who is seen along with his consort Sita
matha and brother Lakshmana. This temple stands as an the epitome of
Holkar style of architecture and a symbol of pride of Queen Ahilya Bai.
Chhatri of Vithoji
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| Ahileshwar Temple and River Narmada |
In front of the Ahileshwar temple is a Chhatri (Cenotaph) dedicated to
Shrimant Sardar Vithoji Rao Holkar, who was sentenced to death by being
trampled under elephant's feet by the Maratha King Peshwa Baji Rao II.
The presence of enormous carvings of elephants may be attributed to this
incident.
Ahilya Ghat
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| Chhatri of Vithoji |
Ahilya ghat, built on the banks of river Narmada during the reign of
Rani Ahilya Bai is situated besides the temple of Ahileshwar, from where
one can get an astounding view of the Ahilya Bai fort.
Ahilya Bai Palace
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| Ahilya Bai Ghat and Fort |
The royal Palace of Holkar dynasty where Queen Ahilya Bai spent most of
her time during her rule is now converted into a small museum with
collections of her memorabilia. There is a big statue of the Queen
Ahilya Bai inside this palace installed in her memory. The rest part of
the Palace is now converted in the Heritage hotel.
Gobar Ganesha Temple
 |
| Queen Ahilya Bai |
This 900 year old temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha is one of the oldest
living temples here. Due to its continuous renovations, the temple
currently is seen as a modern structure housing the 900 year old Ganesha
idol shaped out of Gobar (cow dung). It is indeed surprising. How this
idol has survived for such a long period, being made of organically
decomposeable material is a mystery. We were fortunate enough for
having a chance to visit this temple which was located in the interior
streets of Maheshwar.
Other places to visit around: Kaleshwar Temple, Narmada Temple,
Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Jawaleshwar Temple, Baneshwar Temple (on the
island formed by River Narmada), many other temples and ghats.
 |
| Lord Gobar Ganesha |
Distance from nearby major town: 90 km from Indore.
Accommodation: We stayed at hotel Devarshi, a good budget hotel
for over night stay located on the road to Damoh. The hotel attached to
this place only serves vegetarian food. Only cash is accepted here.
Another option for lodging is hotel Narmada Retreat maintained by
MPSTDC. Various options exist to suit one's budget.
Where to eat: Hotel Narmada Retreat is the best choice for food
apart from the various cafes inside the fort area, although road side
eateries were our favorite for the very famous Poha and Sev.
References:
1. Wikipedia
2. RBS Visitors Guide India - ''Madhya Pradesh"
Related Posts:
10 comments:
Looks like everybody is exploring Madhya Pradesh. :)
Reply
No idea why but Cenotaphs always fascinate me. why were they made and what was the purpose... why they are common in some region, and not everywhere. What are their stories and so on. :)
Keep exploring and showing us the world.Such a great travel post!All the buildings are mysterious for me. Beautiful!
ReplyAmazing images. The place looks like photographer and history buffs delight.
Reply
Nice shots - Looking forward to spending a few days in India soon.
Sorry about slow reply - I have been in New Zealand and blogging has taken a bit of a back seat.
Cheers - Stewart M - Melbourne
BuyMaps
ReplySo many temples to see. So happy to go through the post and list of temples.
Wow, what an amazingly grand structures these are. Lovely pictures!
ReplyAnonymousFebruary 4, 2017 at 9:28 PM
Amazing...
MP Diaries - Maheshwar, Sanctified by Faith
|
| Maheshwar, Sanctified by Faith |
|
| Entering the Fort |
A temple exhibiting typical North Indian style of architecture and
stands in neglect, is dedicated to the four armed Lord Naryana (Lord
Vishnu). As this temple was closed during our visit, we were unable to
witness the temple interiors.
Raja Rajeshwar Temple
|
| Chaturbhuj Naryana Temple |
This temple complex is situated close to the Ahileshwar temple (main
temple). There are many temples in this complex, most of which are
dedicated to Lord Shiva. One such, seemed lively with a lot of action
happening in terms of rituals and offering prayers. There is an idol of
the king Sahasrarjuna in the temple.
Ahileshwar temple
|
| Raja Rajeshwar Temple |
|
| King Sahasrarjuna |
The Ahileshwar temple is a multi-tiered temple distinguished by its
carved overhanging balconies and intricately carved doorways. This
temple is dedicated to Lord Rama who is seen along with his consort Sita
matha and brother Lakshmana. This temple stands as an the epitome of
Holkar style of architecture and a symbol of pride of Queen Ahilya Bai.
Chhatri of Vithoji
|
| Ahileshwar Temple and River Narmada |
In front of the Ahileshwar temple is a Chhatri (Cenotaph) dedicated to
Shrimant Sardar Vithoji Rao Holkar, who was sentenced to death by being
trampled under elephant's feet by the Maratha King Peshwa Baji Rao II.
The presence of enormous carvings of elephants may be attributed to this
incident.
Ahilya Ghat
|
| Chhatri of Vithoji |
Ahilya ghat, built on the banks of river Narmada during the reign of
Rani Ahilya Bai is situated besides the temple of Ahileshwar, from where
one can get an astounding view of the Ahilya Bai fort.
Ahilya Bai Palace
|
| Ahilya Bai Ghat and Fort |
The royal Palace of Holkar dynasty where Queen Ahilya Bai spent most of
her time during her rule is now converted into a small museum with
collections of her memorabilia. There is a big statue of the Queen
Ahilya Bai inside this palace installed in her memory. The rest part of
the Palace is now converted in the Heritage hotel.
Gobar Ganesha Temple
|
| Queen Ahilya Bai |
This 900 year old temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha is one of the oldest
living temples here. Due to its continuous renovations, the temple
currently is seen as a modern structure housing the 900 year old Ganesha
idol shaped out of Gobar (cow dung). It is indeed surprising. How this
idol has survived for such a long period, being made of organically
decomposeable material is a mystery. We were fortunate enough for
having a chance to visit this temple which was located in the interior
streets of Maheshwar.
Other places to visit around: Kaleshwar Temple, Narmada Temple,
Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Jawaleshwar Temple, Baneshwar Temple (on the
island formed by River Narmada), many other temples and ghats.
|
| Lord Gobar Ganesha |
Distance from nearby major town: 90 km from Indore.
Accommodation: We stayed at hotel Devarshi, a good budget hotel
for over night stay located on the road to Damoh. The hotel attached to
this place only serves vegetarian food. Only cash is accepted here.
Another option for lodging is hotel Narmada Retreat maintained by
MPSTDC. Various options exist to suit one's budget.
Where to eat: Hotel Narmada Retreat is the best choice for food
apart from the various cafes inside the fort area, although road side
eateries were our favorite for the very famous Poha and Sev.
References:
1. Wikipedia
2. RBS Visitors Guide India - ''Madhya Pradesh"
Related Posts:
10 comments:
Looks like everybody is exploring Madhya Pradesh. :)
Reply
No idea why but Cenotaphs always fascinate me. why were they made and what was the purpose... why they are common in some region, and not everywhere. What are their stories and so on. :)
Keep exploring and showing us the world.Such a great travel post!All the buildings are mysterious for me. Beautiful!
ReplyAmazing images. The place looks like photographer and history buffs delight.
ReplyNice shots - Looking forward to spending a few days in India soon.
Sorry about slow reply - I have been in New Zealand and blogging has taken a bit of a back seat.
Cheers - Stewart M - Melbourne
BuyMaps
ReplySo many temples to see. So happy to go through the post and list of temples.
Wow, what an amazingly grand structures these are. Lovely pictures!
ReplyAnonymousFebruary 4, 2017 at 9:28 PM
Amazing...
MP Diaries - Asirgarh, Gateway to Deccan
Asirgarh, a hill fort in Burhanpur
of East Nimar district, Madhya Pradesh is located in the Satpura range,
259 meters high from the base and 696 meters above sea level. Asirgarh
was an invincible fort of the medieval times covering an area of 60
acres at the summit of the hill. The fort was regarded as the gateway to
the Deccan and the emperor who had the authority over the region not
only had access to the Deccan region but also had a control over land
and water routes and could regulate the inland and foreign trade that
resulted in a prosperous economy. The west side of the hill is well
defended by three lines of defenses namely, the lower most Malaigarh,
middle most Kamargarh and the top most Asirgarh. Over time, the fort was
ruled by many dynasties and the fortification was strengthened. The
fort comprising of strong walls and bastions had mainly seven gateways.
Asirgarh fort finds a mention in the epic Mahabharata as
Ashwatthamagiri. Firishta (Persian historian) derived the name of
Asirgarh from Asa Ahir, to whom he attributes the foundation of the
fort; but this is speculative as the name Asir is repeatedly mentioned
by the Rajput poet Chand. It may have come from the Asi or Haihaya kings
who ruled the Narmada valley from Maheshwar.
The literary sources proclaim that from 9th to 12th century, the fort
was under the dominion of Tak and Chauhan Rajputs. In 1295, the fort was
a stronghold of the Chauhan Rajputs and was captured by the Sultan of
Delhi, Alauddin Khilji after retreating back from his Deccan campaign.
Later in 15th century, the fort was held by the Faruqi kings of Khandesh
and taken by the Mughal emperor Akbar in 1600 who opened the gateway to
the southern India. After the decline of the mughals, the fort was
controlled by Nizam, Peshwa, Scindia and Holkar. In 1904, the fort was
transformed into a British cantonment under the command of General
Doveton. The legendary freedom fighter of Sambalpur (Odisha/Orissa),
Veer Surendra Sai along with his family members and followers were
brought here against the charges of revolutionary movement against
British. They were kept here as state prisoners until the death of Veer
Surendra, after which the rest were released. The Persian inscriptions
of Akbar, Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb found here speak volumes about their
association with this fort.
 |
| Asirgarh Fort |
 |
| Persian Inscriptions |
The Jama Masjid was constructed by the Faruqi ruler Adil Shah IV in the
year 1590. The masjid is entered by three elevated arches that open into
a quadrangular courtyard that is surrounded by elevated arcaded
colonnades (a series of arches supported regularly spaced columns) on
three sides with a prayer hall on the west. The arched cloister of the
prayer hall has a qibla at its center. The two ends of the prayer hall
are supported by two lofty minars.
British Cantonment
 |
| Jama Masjid |
On the southwest side of the fort, structures, cells and cemetery of the
British period is present. These underground cells were for the
prisoners made captive by the British. Topographically, the hill was a
natural barrier for the intrusion and extrusion that resulted in a
difficult prison break. Apart form many patriots, revolutionaries of
kuka movement headed by Guru Ram Singh were also detained here in the
year 1872. Of the kuka revolutionaries, Rur Singh and Pahar Singh died
during their confinement whereas Muluk Singh, during his last days was
sent back to Punjab in the year 1886.
Mahadev Temple
 |
| Queen's Lake (Rani Ka Talab) |
 |
| Portion of the British Cantonment |
The legend says that, the son of Guru Drona, Ashwatthama of Mahabharata
worships this ancient Shiva temple every day. The temple was constructed
in 18th century in the Maratha style of architecture. The temple
comprises of a garbhagriha and a mandapa. Close to the temple are a
baoli (well) and few rock-cut cells and passages.
Moti Mahal
 |
| Lord Mahadev Temple |
 |
| Phansi Ghar (Place of execution of criminals) |
 |
| British Cemetery Inside the Fort |
The beautiful palace of Moti Mahal was built by Shah Jahan, which is now
in ruins and neglected. This two storeyed palace was built for his
beloved wife Moti Mahal, where he spent private time with his queen.
 |
| Moti Mahal |
 |
| Inside Moti Mahal |
1. Krik Kitell
2. Travel Magic
3. Saini Online
4. Imperial Gazetteer of India.
Related Post
12 comments:
Have been contemplating about Asrgarh for a while now...
Reply
MP wishlist keeps getting longer
Great shots of the mountain fort. It is good to see at least some of the ruins.
SupportVeterans
ReplyInteresting and beautiful.
Very impressive work. But, such sights also make me sad for the amount of vandalism they have undergone by the ancient attackers and the modern day ignorance.
ReplyNice work.I must appreciate. But at the same time I want to add that the legendary freedom fighter of Sambalpur, Odisha Veer Surendra Sai and others 7 were kept in Asirgarh since 1864. One of his brother and only son were released after 12 years but Surendra himself,two of his brothers and other three means total 6 fighters were breathed their last at Asirgarh. Surendra died on 18th February 1884. In his life time Surendra remains in jail for total 37 years. He fought against the British for 20 years, capture by treachery.
ReplySorry the date of death is wrongly typed it will be 28th February 1884
ReplyOut of eight Sambalpur political prisoners only two by name Dhruv Sai, brother and Mitrabhanu Sai, only son of Veer Surendra Sai were released from Asirgarh on the occasion of Maharani of Britain announced as the Empress of India, but were barred from entering in to Sambalpur. Rest all of the six by name Veer Surendra Sai and his two brothers Udanta, Medini Sai and also Loknath Panda, Khageswar Singh Dau and Kamal Singh Dau were died in Asirgarh in captivity. (Source : Sambalpur Itihas)
BuyMaps
ReplyAnonymousFebruary 18, 2025 at 8:59 AM
taak chauahn rajput vansh hai jiski detail vansh bhaskar book m likha hai galat gyan mat do kisi ahir ne nhi taak chauhan vansh ka hai jo sambhar ke manikrav ke vanshaj hia book read krlo
Amazing find!
ReplyWonderful pics.
ReplyThank you for sharing. This is a wonderful find.
Replyinteresting discovery!
ReplyBeautiful images of India, love this.