Shiva temple, Kera
The Shiva temple, Kera, also known as the Lakheshwara temple of Kerakot, is an ancient Hindu temple located in Kera village, near Bhuj in Gujarat, India. Built during the later part of the 10th century under the Chaulukya dynasty, it is dedicated to the deity Shiva and is renowned for its well-preserved spire and intricate sculptures, despite significant damage from historical earthquakes.
Key Facts
- ›The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- ›It was constructed during the reign of the Chaulukya dynasty (Solankis).
- ›The temple's construction dates back to the later part of the 10th century (9th to 11th century).
- ›It suffered severe damage from earthquakes in 1819 and 2001.
- ›The spire, inner sanctum, and many sculptures remain in attractive condition.
- ›An annual fair is held at the temple, attracting a large number of devotees.
Shiva
- Architectural Preservation Despite Earthquake Damage
- Religious Pilgrimage Site For Shiva Devotees
- Historical Importance As A Chaulukya Dynasty Structure
Chaulukya Dynasty
Annual Fair
Stone
Rao Lakha Phulani
Sculptures of Human Figures On the Spire, Sculptures of Yakshas, Chaitya Window-Like Sculptures On the Spire
About Shiva temple, Kera
The Shiva temple, Kera, also referred to as the Lakheshwara temple of Kerakot, is an ancient Hindu temple situated in Kera village, near Bhuj in the Kutch district of Gujarat, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and holds historical and religious significance.
History and Construction
The temple's construction is attributed to the later part of the 10th century, during the rule of the Chaulukya dynasty, also known as the Solankis. Historical accounts suggest it may have been patronized by Rao Lakha Phulani, who ruled from his capital at Kapilkot. The temple's architectural style reflects this period of Gujarat's history.
Architectural Features and Sculptures
The Shiva temple of Kera is noted for its well-preserved spire and intricate sculptures. The interior of the shrine is square, measuring approximately 8 feet 6 inches on each side, with walls that are 2 feet 7 inches thick. A circumambulatory passageway, or pradakshina, of 2-foot-6-inch width surrounds the sanctum, receiving natural light from two perforated windows. The temple's spire is adorned with ornamentation, including triangular sculptures resembling chaitya windows on each face, interspersed with finely crafted human figures. Miniature spires are placed at the corners of the shrine, with further tiered spires built above them, leading to the main central spire. The external faces of the spires are decorated with elegantly carved sculptures. Additionally, numerous stone sculptures of Yakshas are found around the temple premises.
Damage and Preservation
The temple has endured significant structural damage due to major seismic events. It was substantially affected by the Rann of Kutch earthquake in 1819, and again to some extent by the Bhuj earthquake in 2001. Despite these adversities, the temple's spire, inner sanctum, and many of its sculptures remain in an attractive and recognizable condition, attesting to the quality of its original construction.
Location and Accessibility
Located in Kera village, the temple is approximately 22 kilometers south of Bhuj. Bhuj serves as the nearest railhead, with express trains connecting it to Ahmedabad and Mumbai. Bhuj also has an airport with flights to Mumbai, making the temple accessible to visitors.
Religious Significance and Festivals
The Shiva temple, Kera is an active place of worship and a pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Shiva. An annual fair is held at the temple, which attracts a large number of devotees, further highlighting its role in the local religious calendar.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Shiva temple, Kera located?
The Shiva temple is situated in Kera village, near Bhuj in the Kutch district of Gujarat, India. It is approximately 22 kilometers south of the city of Bhuj.
When was the Shiva temple, Kera built?
The temple was built during the later part of the 10th century, with historical periods ranging from the 9th to the 11th century, under the patronage of the Chaulukya dynasty.
What deity is worshipped at the Shiva temple, Kera?
The temple is primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a significant place of worship for devotees of the deity.
What architectural features are notable at the Shiva temple, Kera?
The temple features a well-executed spire ornamented with triangular sculptures resembling chaitya windows, and human figures. The interior is square, with a circumambulatory passageway and perforated windows providing natural light.
Has the temple experienced any major damage?
Yes, the temple has been substantially damaged by two major earthquakes: the Rann of Kutch earthquake in 1819 and the Bhuj earthquake in 2001. Despite this, key elements like the spire and inner sanctum have been remarkably preserved.
Are there any significant sculptures or artworks at the temple?
The temple walls feature well-carved sculptures, and the spire is adorned with elegant carvings of human figures and miniature spires. Stone sculptures of Yakshas are also found around the temple premises.
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