Nestled in the serene village of Mitaoli, in Madhya Pradesh’s Morena district, lies the Chausath Yogini Temple, a captivating relic of India’s ancient architectural and spiritual heritage. This remarkable temple, also known as the Ekattarso Mahadev Mandir, is steeped in history and myth, with some sources claiming it inspired the design of the Indian Parliament building in New Delhi. Let’s take a closer look at this enchanting site.
A Journey to Mitaoli
Located about 40 kilometers from Gwalior and 30 kilometers from Morena, Mitaoli is a quaint village that draws visitors to its historic temple perched atop a small hillock. To reach the Chausath Yogini Temple, one must ascend approximately 100 stairs that lead to a circular temple complex, which spans about 100 meters in diameter and is built on an elevated platform.
The Temple’s Architecture
Upon entering the temple complex, visitors are greeted by a central shrine surrounded by an outer pillared enclosure. The central shrine is circular and features two concentric rings of pillars, with the main entrance facing east. Inside the sanctum, a Shiva Lingam is enshrined, emphasizing Shiva’s role as the overlord of the Yoginis.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this temple is its hypaethral design, meaning it lacks a roof. This open-air configuration was crucial for the rituals of the Yogini cult, which often required ceremonies to be conducted under the open sky, possibly for astrological practices as well.
The outer circular enclosure comprises 65 cells—64 dedicated to the Yoginis and one likely reserved for a special deity, believed to be Devi or Parvati, Shiva’s consort. Among these cells, cell number 37 stands out with its decorative doorway, hinting at its significance.
Although the original design may have included towers or shikharas atop each cell, none have survived. Instead, some cells have been repurposed to house Shiva Lingas, reflecting the temple’s evolving spiritual significance. The absence of original Yogini sculptures is notable, as none have been discovered at the site. However, historical references suggest these statues may have stood around three feet high.
The Mystique of the Yogini Cult
The temple is deeply connected to the Yogini cult, which venerates female masters of yoga in Hindu tantra, often equated with goddesses, particularly Parvati. The Agni Purana provides one of the earliest mentions of the 64 Yoginis. Temples dedicated to the Yoginis began to emerge in the 9th century, with many constructed between the 9th and 12th centuries across Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Orissa.
Worship of the Yoginis was especially favored by royalty, with texts such as the Kulārnava Tantra suggesting that devotion to the 64 Yoginis could enhance a king’s fame and success in military endeavors. The Kālikā Purāṇa and Mattotara Tantra further describe the significance of performing specialized rituals to appease the Yoginis within a Mandala, emphasizing their importance in royal patronage.
The Legend of the Indian Parliament
Many enthusiasts have drawn comparisons between the Chausath Yogini Temple and the Indian Parliament building, suggesting that the latter’s designers were inspired by the former. However, this claim lacks substantiation. While both structures feature pillars, the temple’s pillars face inward, contrasting with the outward-facing pillars of the Parliament building, which was designed by Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker. No evidence indicates that Lutyens or Baker visited Mitaoli, and the first recorded mention of the temple appears in an archaeological report from 1942-1946.
The Shrine and Its Resilience
Outside the circular temple complex, a small subsidiary shrine rests on a raised platform, accessible via nine steps. Currently, it lacks an idol, but remnants suggest it once housed a significant sculpture. Remarkably, the Chausath Yogini Temple has withstood the test of time, surviving earthquakes and retaining its structural integrity for nearly 1,000 years.
Conclusion
The Chausath Yogini Temple at Mitaoli is not just a historical site; it’s a testament to the rich tapestry of Indian spirituality and architectural brilliance. As a major tourist attraction in the Morena district, alongside the Bateshwar and Padhavali temples, it invites visitors to explore its sacred grounds and ponder the mysteries of the Yogini cult.
Whether you’re drawn by its historical significance, architectural beauty, or spiritual essence, a visit to the Chausath Yogini Temple is sure to leave an indelible mark on your journey through India’s ancient heritage. So, lace up your hiking boots, and prepare to ascend the steps to a world where history and spirituality intertwine in captivating harmony.
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