Chitragupta Temple at Khajuraho is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Sun God. Lord Vishnu has been represented with Ten Heads representing ten avtars of Lord Vishnu. It depicts the stories of Hindu mythology. These define the avtars of Lord Vishnu that every time saved mankind. The temple also consists of the idol of Sun God who is represented with a huge Chariot pulled by seven horses. It is constructed in such a manner that it is oriented east towards the rising sun.

The place is also marked by the sculptures of hunting, dance performances, royal processions and elephant fighting which are inscribed on the external wall of the temple. The walls are beautifully carved. It depicts voluptuous and full figured sura-sundaris, erotic couples, image of lord Vishnu in the ten headed forms. The lintel of the intricate doorway portrays three small figures of Lord Surya as depicted in the main sanctum. There are several group scenes which portray royal processions and group dances. The innermost part of the temple contains a majestic 5 feet high image of the great sun-god, steering a chariot. Such varieties of art stand mute witness to the luxurious lifestyle of the Chandela courts. The temple also houses an ancient three-storied stepped tank, known as `Chopra`.

As far as plan, design, dimensions and decorative scheme is concerned it closely resembles the Devi Jagadamba Temple and consists of a sanctum without ambulatory, vestibule, maha-mandapa with lateral transepts and entrance-porch. The octagonal ceiling of its maha-mandapa marks an elaboration over the square plan. Therefore it appears to be relatively more ornate and developed than Jagadamba. The main image enshrined in the sanctum represents an impressive sculpture of standing Surya driving in a chariot of seven horses.

This article is a stub. You can enrich by adding more information to it. Send your Write Up to [email protected]