Chaturbhuj Temple: Khajuraho Southern Group

 Chaturbhuj Temple: Khajuraho's Unique Vishnu Shrine

The Chaturbhuj Temple (Devanagari: चतुर्भुज मंदिर), also known locally as the Jatakari Temple, stands apart in the famous Khajuraho Group of Monuments. Built around 1100 CE by the Chandela Dynasty ruler, Yasovarman, this modest 12th-century shrine is dedicated entirely to the Hindu god Vishnu. The name Chaturbhuj (Devanagari: चतुर्भुज) is derived from Sanskrit words चतु: (Chatuh) = four and भुजा (Bhujā) = arms, which literally means "One who has four arms"—a direct epithet of Lord Vishnu, whom the temple honors. Situated in the village of Jatakari, about 3 km south of the Duladeo Temple, Chaturbhuj holds a distinct place in Khajuraho's religious landscape. Its profound architectural significance and testimony to the Chandela Dynasty earned it inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1986.

Chaturbhuj Temple (Jatakari Temple): The modest, west-facing shrine, unique for its towering single shikhara among Khajuraho's temples.

Architecture and Structure

Structurally similar to the Jawari Temple, Chaturbhuj faces west, providing a spectacular view, especially at sunset. The temple rests upon a modest chabutara (platform) and is accessible via a staircase.

Its design is characterized by verticality due to its single, large shikhara (spire). The temple complex consists of:

• An inviting entrance porch.

• A central mandapa (hall).

• A vestibule.

• A sanctum (garbhagriha) that uniquely lacks an ambulatory (a path for circumambulation).

Standing Apart: The temple resting on its simple yet elevated chabutara (platform), symbolizing its solitude and spiritual focus.

The entryway is particularly elaborate, featuring beautifully carved figures of the Trinity: Brahma, Vishnu, and Lord Shiva. Notably, Shiva is depicted in the tribhanga (triple-bend) posture, with an expression of gentle tranquility that showcases the height of Chandela artistry. The doorway's lower section also symbolically represents the holy rivers Ganga and Yamuna with their respective vahinas (vehicles): Makara-vahini Ganga (on a crocodile or sea dragon) and Kachhap-vahini Yamuna (on a tortoise).

Ganga and Yamuna: The river goddesses at the base of the doorway, identified by their vahinas (vehicles)—the crocodile (Ganga) and the tortoise (Yamuna).

The Striking Image of Vishnu

The temple’s central focus is the magnificent idol housed within the sanctum. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the shrine features an impressive nine-foot-high, four-armed (Chaturbhuja) image. This imposing sculpture is often considered the tallest deity and one of the most striking sculptures in all of Khajuraho.

The deity is adorned with a crown and ornaments. Its iconography is distinct:

• The upper right hand is raised in benediction (abhaya-mudra).

• The left hand holds a lotus stalk and a sacred book.

• He is depicted standing gracefully, reminiscent of Krishna, with his right leg resting lightly behind on the toe.

(Left) The Four-Armed Preserver: The majestic, nine-foot-high, four-armed Vishnu idol housed within the sanctum, the tallest deity sculpture in Khajuraho.

(Right) Iconography of the Deity: A close view highlighting Vishnu's raised right hand in abhaya-mudra (benediction) and the ornaments adorning the four-armed deity.

Exterior Sculptures and Unique Identity

The outer walls of the sanctum are decorated with three rows of Hindu gods and goddesses. While the exterior carvings, with a few exceptions, are sometimes noted to be less intricate than other Khajuraho temples (possibly reflecting the declining fortunes of the empire), they still hold significant iconographic value:

Celestial Rows: A segment of the temple's outer wall, showing the three bands of carved Hindu gods and goddesses.

• Cardinal Niches: The main niches feature the Narasimha avatar of Vishnu (North), a four-armed Lord Shiva seated on a bull (East), and the androgynous deity Ardhanarishwara (South).

The Lion Man: The powerful carving of Narasimha, the man-lion avatar of Vishnu, located in the northern cardinal niche.

• Other Notable Carvings: Figures like Suryanarayana in a yoga posture, Harihara (a blend of Vishnu and Shiva), dikhpalas (guardians of directions), ashtavasus, and mythical lions also decorate the exterior.

The most significant distinguishing feature of the Chaturbhuj Temple is its complete absence of erotic sculptures, which are famously present across the other temples of the Khajuraho complex. This unique characteristic sets it apart and makes it an anomaly among its peers.

Conclusion: A Peaceful Sanctuary

The Chaturbhuj Temple, or Jatakari Temple, offers visitors a peaceful counterpoint to the more elaborate and sensuous carvings found elsewhere in Khajuraho. Dedicated solely to the preserver god, Vishnu, it not only represents the spiritual and architectural brilliance of the Chandela Dynasty but also provides a moment of serene contemplation. With its majestic Vishnu idol and reputation as the best spot in Khajuraho to witness the sunset, the Chaturbhuj Temple is a must-see for those seeking history, artistry, and tranquillity.   Top: Column capitals in the balcony                                    Left: Northeast corner elevation     

 

Intricate Celestial Ceiling: Detailed carvings adorning the ceiling and column capitals in the mandapa (hall) or entrance porch.

Chandela Verticality: A full side view showcasing the temple's single, dominant shikhara (spire) rising above the three distinct bands (rows) of exterior deity sculptures.