ABSTRACT

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A Saiva Monastic Complex of the Kalacuris at Chunari in Central India

A. K. Singh

This paper reveals some of the finer details of a hitherto unexplored ancient Kalachuri monument from Central India, a Saivite monastic complex wrapped in obscurity. The imperial Kalachuris, in the early medieval period, were invincible warriors, stalwart builders, benevolent philanthropists and ardent Saiva adherents. Myriads of monuments erected by them stand testimony to their unflinching faith and refined aesthetic sense. This paper is an attempt at a detailed analysis of one Kalachuri monument explored by the author and the expedition led by him.

The Saivite monastic complex (c. 10th-12th century A.D.) is situated at Chunari near Rewa (Central India) amidst the serene environs of the Kaimur Vindhyas. In the vicinity are the Buddhist monastic complex of Deour Kothar (c. 2nd-3rd century B.C.), the DevÍ temple of Deour Kothar (c. 10th century A.D.), the Siva temple of Baghedi (c. 10th century. A.D.) and the megalithic burials of Patharauda. The historical importance of the site is further added to by its position on an ancient trade route.

As this is only the second Kalachuri monastery discovered so far, after decades of fine combing by experts and amateurs, the site is of enormous significance to art historians and archeologists. This paper provides an account of the architecture and sculpture of the whole complex.