Matangeshwara Temple

Matangeshwara Temple is a tenth century Shiva temple in the Western group of temples in Khajuraho. This temple is considered one of the most pious temples of Khajuraho for many reasons. The very first reason is that it is constructed in the respect of sage Matang, who is considered one of the incarnations of Lord Shiva. This temple is also called the Mrityunjay Mahadev Mandir; locals believe the relief from death threat can be avoided by worshipping here. The Matangeshwara temple is a copy of Brahma Temple in a larger scale in terms of plan and design. The whole structure is designed on a square plan. The temple has a 2.5 meter high Lingam, made of yellow sandstone 1.1 meter in diameter established on a raised platform 1.2 meter high and 7.6 meter in diameter. The Lingam has Nagara and Persian inscriptions. The interior and exterior walls of the temple are not richly decorated; the ceilings are carvings having floral designs. Among the Hindu temples of Khajuraho the Matangeshwara temple is only widely active from worshipping point of view. A grand three days fair with a rejoicing festival are being organized in Shivratri. There is an open air exhibition hall towards the south of the temple where several structures of different deities of ancient importance are displayed.