ASI to Restore 10th-Century Bhand Devra Temple in Rajasthan
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to restore the 10th-century Bhand Devra Temple in Rajasthan's Baran district. |
| Location | The temple is located on the bank of the Ramgarh Crater in Baran district, Rajasthan. |
| Architectural Style | Built in the Nagara architectural style, resembling the Khajuraho temples. |
| Nickname | Often referred to as "Rajasthan's mini Khajuraho" due to its resemblance to the Khajuraho temples. |
| Historical Background | Originally built as a victory monument by King Malaya Verma of the Nagavanshi dynasty and restored in 1162 CE by King Trishna Verma of the Meda dynasty. |
| Current Condition | The temple has suffered damage due to neglect, with crumbling structures and stolen idols. |
| Geological Significance | Located adjacent to the Ramgarh Crater, formed by an asteroid impact around 165 million years ago, and recognized as one of India's rare geo-heritage sites. |
| Nagara Temple Features | Features include a Shikhara (curvilinear tower), Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), Mandapa (pillared hall), Jagati (raised platform), and Adhisthana (base platform). |
| Khajuraho Temple | Built by the Chandela dynasty in the 10th and 11th centuries, these temples are UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1986. |
| ASI's Role | ASI, under the Ministry of Culture, is responsible for the archaeological research and protection of the cultural heritage of India. It was founded in 1861 by Alexander Cunningham, known as the "Father of Indian Archaeology". |