The Enigma of THE Bhojpur Temple
Open roofed sanctum or a disproportionate Temple – historical riddle

Apurva Sinha

The Paramara dynasty, like the other Rajput dynasties, originated from the ‘Agnikunda’, and ruled for almost four centuries over the region north of Narmada, anciently known as Avanti or the kingdom of Ujjain . The dynasty was established by Upendra in 9th century CE, and is chiefly known for the eloquence of Munja (seventh ruler); and, his successor nephew Bhoja; as they were great patrons of art and literature. Bhoja is also famous among the bards for ‘Kaha Raja Bhoja, Kaha Gangu Teli’. He is accredited for eleven prominent literary works of the mediaeval times, such as ‘Samaranganasutradhara’, ‘Saraswatikanthabharan’, ‘Yuktikalpataru’, ‘Tattva P rakash’, ‘Champu-Ramayana’ etc. The Siva temple at Bhojpur is an evocative example of Bhoja’s mastery over art, aesthetics, and science.