The lesser-known Khedapati Mata Mandir in Kagpur village is an architectural gem of the Paramaras. Built between the 10th – 11th century, this temple structure has been desecrated multiple times by Muslim invaders and the British. The structure that stands today is the collective effort of the residents of the village after it collapsed.
This small square temple sits in the middle of the village and though bereft of a shikhara, still exudes the grandeur and elegance of the Paramara period. There is a statue of Khedapati Mata in the sanctum sanctorum that is adorned with vermillion. This idol of Divine Mother is revered by all and people come from surrounding villages to offer prayers on Navaratri and other auspicious occasions.
Just behind the statue of Khedapati Mata is a rare stone sculpture depicting both Durga Mata and Parvati Devi. The artisan has carved a lion on one side and a bull on the other and Devi is seen holding a kamandalu in one hand.
A fair number of exquisitely carved door jambs, pillars, architectural members and ornamental brackets from nearby temples and sculptures of Lord Shiva and Parvati Devi, Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma and Devi of the Paramara period have been painstakingly collected and placed in the foreground.
This temple along with Mangala Devi Mandir and Athakambha makes a visit to Kagpur worthwhile.
Written by Lakshmi Subramanian
* Photos are only symbolic (Taken from public domain/internet and any copyright infringement is unintentional and regrettable)
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