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It is not fair that a few popularised destinations get all the attention and most others are hardly noticed. We tend to feel that unexplored sites are not worth a try but is it so? Just go around the Bateshwar Temples in Morena and see this opinion changes.
Bateshwar Group of Temples were built much before the creation of Khajuraho Temples. Unfortunately, these legacies were lost in the string of times.
Bateshwar Temples
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Thanks to the archaeologist K.K.Muhammad who gave a re-introduced it to the contemporary world. In fact, his enormous efforts also helped in restoring around 100 temples out of the total 200 sites.
History of Bateshwar Temples
Bateshwar Temples were constructed during 8th to 11th century by the Kings of Gurjara-Pratihara Dynasty. It is a group of 200 temples located in Morena of Madhya Pradesh.
Bateshwar Temples
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Attractions at Bateshwar Temples
No doubt, Bateshwar is ideal for photography tours. You can do a lot of experimentation as there is so much to capture.
Most temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva while some are dedicated for Lord Vishnu. These are not live temples, hence you can stroll without any restrictions.
Bateshwar Temples
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A blend of artistic and rustic touch takes us back in time. We will feel that maybe artisans were having a competition while chiselling these stone structures.
Most temples have conical shikharas (gopuras) while some are destroyed over the time. So only a temple with flat roofs can be seen at few portions.
Interesting Facts About Bateshwar Temples
As of now, 100 temples are unearthed and there are 100 more to go.
Bateshwar Temples are more than 1000 years old.
Bateshwar Temple Complex was occupied by dacoits before the ASI entered to examine the locality. Interestingly, one of the main dacoits was the descendant of Gurjara-Prathihara community.
Bateshwar Temples
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K.K.Muhammud and his team initiated a talk with dacoits and convinced them about restoring this temple complex.
In the end, dacoits agreed for this process and even helped the workers in restoring the temples.
Now the Bateshwar Temple Complex is completely empty and it only belongs to ASI. It has been restored and it is one of the beautiful complex of temples in Madhya Pradesh.
Bateshwar Temple
PC: Varun Shiv Kapur
Threats
Illegal mining in the surrounding areas are a big threat to this heritage. The explosives used for breaking the rocks create strong vibrations which affect the base of these temples.
It is also facing threats from tourists as they carelessly litter the place and some even carve or write on the walls of temples.
How to Reach Morena
Morena is around 40km from Gwalior. It is easily accessible by road from neighbouring city centres.
Bateshwar Temple Complex is wonder in itself. The stone architectures, intricate sculptures and overall design shows their passion towards art. Such a beautiful site can never be boring, in fact it is more amazing to see so many temples spread in one place. All you need is time and patience to appreciate these structures which have monumental value.
