Teli ka Mandir Gwalior Fort History
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| Teli ka Mandir Teli ka Mandir, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India source Wikipedia |
Introduction
The Teli ka Mandir
is an ancient temple complex in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh in India. Constructed
in the 8 th century, this temple is associated with a great height, distinctive
architecture and historical significance. This temple is unique and unique in a
unique mix of Nagara style of North India and Dravidian style of South India.
Religiously important, it nowadays is a priceless icon of the Indian
traditional architecture and culture and draws history lovers and tourists
worldwide.
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| 8th or 9th century ruined Teli ka Mandir before restoration, Gwalior Madhya Pradesh, east view 1869. source Wikipedia |
Location
Telika Temple is
found within the Gwalior Fort complex in Madhya Pradesh. It is among the
highest and most beautiful temples in the fort.
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| Teli ka mandir ground plan (incomplete) source Wikipedia |
History
One of the oldest
Hindu temples in Gwalior is Telika Temple, the construction of which is said to
be of 8 th century. It is said to have been constructed at the period of the
Pratihara dynasty as it is alleged by historians. Some inscriptions and
archaeological facts show that the temple was initially given to Lord Vishna.
It was however linked to the worship of Shiva and Shakti later. Another way of
naming is a popular legend - it is believed that the construction of the temple
was funded by the oil merchants (Teli community). Thus, it is referred to a
ghost temple. The name Telika is said to have been based on the word Telangi (
South Indian people), which carries the implication of the Dravidian style of
temple architecture. Accordingly, the Temple of Telika is not only a place of
worship, but also a historical point of convergence between North and South
India.
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| Teli ka Mandir Teli ka Mandir, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India source Wikipedia |
The founder
History does not know the name of the
particular founder of the Telika temple. But as most historians describe it was
constructed under the Pratihara dynasty (8th century). Pratihara rulers were
firm believers of Hinduism, and constructed numerous temples and religious
buildings. It is a point of disputed opinion as to what this temple is called.
The Teli (oil merchant community) money assisted in the building of the temple,
therefore it is referred to as Telika Temple. The name, according to some, is
based on the word "Telangi" which translates to the Dravidian style
of South India. Thus, the name of the founder is not known although it can be
surely said that at the initiative of the kings of Pratihara, it became a
distinctive architectural masterpiece in the fort area of Gwalior.
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| This is a photo of ASI monument number Source Wikipedia |
The walls of the Telika Temple.
The Telika temple
has a unique architectural style in the sense that it exhibits a rare blend of
Nagara style of North India and the Dravidian style of South India. The temple
is approximately 100 feet in height and is the tallest of all the temples in
the Gwalior Fort Complex. It has a rectangular sanctum sanctorum contrary to
the conventional Hindu temples. The shikhara style has been influenced by the
Dravidian style in its structure, whereas the Nagara influence is reflected in
the carvings and ornaments. The temple is decorated with decorative carvings of
Hindu deities, mythological tales and other decorative patterns on its walls.
Of particular interest is the grandiose design of its gateways and buildings
representing power on the one hand, and beauty on the other. It is this
architectural diversity that has made the Telika temple so special in the
history of ancient temple architecture in India.
Conclusion
Telika Temple is a
religious building as well, but also a special phenomenon of ancient
architecture in India. The temple is a combination of north and south India
style. This temple is located on the territory of the Gwalior Fort and
continues to impress history, religion and art admirers. Its size, decoration
and its unclear name make it even more alluring. It is currently a significant
tourist and research destination that is a great treasure of traditional Indian
culture.
