Monuments
In Madhya Pradesh |
|
Madhya Pradesh is not called the "Heart of
India" only because of its location in the
centre of the country. It has been home to the cultural
heritage of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Islam.
Innumerable monuments, exquisitely carved temples,
stupas, forts and palaces are dotted all over the
State. The natural beauty of Madhya Pradesh is equally
varied. Consisting largely of a plateau, the State
has everything. Spectacular mountain ranges, meandering
rivers and miles and miles of dense forests offering
a unique and exciting panorama of wildlife in sylvan
surroundings.
Madhya Pradesh, in its present form, cameinto existence
on November 1,2000 following its bifurcation to
create a new state of Chhattisgarh.The undivided
Madhya Pradesh was founded on November 1, 1956.Madhya
Pradesh, because of its central location in India,
has remained a crucible of historical currents from
North, South, East and West.
Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic, Chalcolithic
and Iron Age Cultures have flourished in the state
along Narmada Valley and other river valleys. Rich
archaeological wealth has been unearthed in various
parts of the state throwing light on its history.
Evidences of earliest human settlements have been
found in Bhimbethika and other places of Raisen
district. Over 600 rock shelters have been discovered
in Bhimbethika. About 500 caves have rock paintings,
which depict the life of pre-historic cave-dwellers.
Sanchi in Raisen district is a world renowned Buddhist
centre known for its stupas, monuments, temples
and pillars dating from 3rd century B.C. to 12th
century A.D. The most famous Sanchi stupa was built
by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka, then governor of
Ujjain.
Bhojpur, in the same districxt is famous for its
incomplete but marvelous Shiva temple, built by
legendary Parmar King of Dhar, Raja Bhoj (1010-53).Khajuraho
in Chhatarpur district is renowned the world over
for its unique temples. Built by Chandela rulers
from 950-1050 A.D., in a truly inspired burst of
creativity these temples are a unique gift to the
world. Orchha in Tikamgarh district is a medieval
legacy in stone built by Bundela rulers in the 16th
and 17th centuries. This land is hallowed by the
memories of the great warrior Chhatrasal who illumined
the pages of history by his heroic deeds.Madhya
Pradesh has a number of important pilgrimage centres.
While Ujjain and Omkareshwar have special significance
due to Shrines having two of the twelve jyotirlingas,
Maheshwar, Mandleshwar, Amarkantak, Hoshangabad
are also important in their own rights.
|
| |
|
|
