The Sahastra Bahu Temple – popularly known as Sas-Bahu Temple – is a little-known piece of architecture found in the quaintness of the village Nagda merely 22 kilometers from Udaipur. The temple site, which overlooks Lake Bagela and is surrounded by the mountainous Aravalli hills, is a 10th century temple complex illustrating the craftsmanship, devotion to religion, and artistry of ancient India.
Historical Ideas
The Sahastra Bahu Temple is a temple built in the late 10th – or early 11th – century, shortly after the time of King Mahipala of the Kachchhwaha dynasty. The temple’s name, despite its wording, should not lead us to think there is to do with “Sas” (Mother-in-law) and “Bahu” (daughter-in-law); in fact, the name “Sahastra Bahu”, literally translated, means “One with a thousand arms,” and this refers to Lord Vishnu, the main deity to which this temple is dedicated.
As various centuries passed, the vernacular differences (evolving language and dialect), and the mythology surrounding the area, the literal “Sahastra Bahu” we started calling it “Sas-Bahu,” and in fact the temple was built for the worship of Lord Vishnu. Now, the intricate temple complex is only thought of in artistic notions and historical ideas because it is evident there are no religious ceremonies occurring.
Architectural Marvels
The temple complex has two temples side by side, a bigger temple (sometimes called the “Sas” temple) and a smaller one (sometimes called the “Bahu” temple) both carved and built in intricate detail. They are made of granite and sandstone, and were built in the Māru – Gurjara (Solanki) architectural style, which has a lot of ornamentation, many different shikharas (spires), and places of heavy carving on walls, ceilings, columns, and pillars.
Every external and internal part of the temple is portrayed in an eruption of detailed depictions of gods, goddesses, animals, heavenly beings, flowers, of mythology, everything for centuries later, the monumental detail still comes through in the carvings, and was simply the best handiwork of the times. It was extraordinary, too, not just for the special effect of carved details but for the geometric or sculptural precision and beauty of the aesthetic interior columns of the temple halls.
The temple complex has purposely been preserved poorly and certainly from antiquity, and conquered, will always have an ambiance teleological and otherwise, in terms of architecture.
Cultural and Spiritual Importance
The temple does not function as a working temple today but is of significant historical and cultural importance. It serves as a representation of the history of the region, and continues to draw historians, art lovers, and people exploring spirituality. The temple is often noted within heritage walks and cultural tours across Udaipur, to bring visitors into the realm of Indian architectural marvel at the time of the early medieval age.
The location of the temple is naturally peaceful, with stunning views over Lake Bagela and green hills surrounding it, and this adds to the general feeling of a peaceful site. The pre-dawn and evening period takes on a particularly serene feel, with the light exhibiting the carvings of the temple with a mystical glow.
A Hidden Gem Near Udaipur
In contrast to the much busier City Palace or Lake Pichola, the Sahastra Bahu Temple is generally not yet on the mass tourism circuit, making this an excellent place to search out Udaipur heritage. The site is free and, with only one or two visitors arriving as a couple of people completed their heritage walk, the site provides a place of quiet, as well as time to contemplate the beauty of the ancient space.
Conclusion
The Sahastra Bahu Temple is more than an ancient ruin: it is an ode to devotion, art, and architectural mastery. Any visitor in Udaipur who has an interest in history, art, or mysticism will find Nagda Equinox an utterly unmissable secret.
Best Accommodation In Udaipur
Hotel Yaduraj is considered to be the best accommodation in Udaipur, combining comfort and luxury that is second to none. Guests can choose from Deluxe, Super Deluxe, or very spacious Family Rooms-all designed to provide a very relaxing environment for the guests’ stay. There is an option of having your meals at the restaurant with indoor or outdoor seating, with mesmerizing views. The relaxing pool is another nice option. Put it all together, and you have quite probably the best hotel in Udaipur where one can stay in the city, whether for pleasure or for business.
