What Is The Significance Of The Recurring Motif Of The ' Makara' In The Temple Architecture Of The Chandela Dynasty, Particularly In The Lakshmana Temple At Khajuraho, And How Does It Relate To The Mythological Narratives Of The Matsya Purana, Which Was Prevalent In The Region During The 10th Century CE?
The makara motif in the temple architecture of the Chandela dynasty, particularly in the Lakshmana Temple at Khajuraho, holds profound symbolic and mythological significance, deeply rooted in the cultural and religious context of 10th-century India. As a mythical creature often depicted as a crocodile or serpent, the makara is associated with water and serves multiple symbolic roles:
-
Cosmic Significance: The makara represents the cosmic ocean, a central theme in Hindu mythology. This aligns with the Matsya Purana, which narrates the story of Vishnu's fish avatar saving the world, symbolizing the primordial waters and the cycle of creation and destruction.
-
Fertility and Prosperity: As a water symbol, the makara embodies fertility and prosperity, crucial for the well-being of the kingdom, reflecting the Chandela dynasty's emphasis on agricultural abundance.
-
Protective Element: The makara is often depicted as a guardian, protecting the temple and its deities, thus serving as a protective motif in the temple's architecture.
-
Mythological Connection: The makara's presence in the Lakshmana Temple connects to the mythological narratives of the Matsya Purana, reinforcing themes of cosmic order, creation, and preservation. It may symbolize the journey through the cosmic ocean, a theme in Hindu cosmology.
In conclusion, the makara motif in Chandela architecture is not merely decorative but a symbol laden with mythological and cosmological significance, reflecting the broader religious narratives and cultural values of the time.