Which City of Madhya Pradesh is Known for Chausath Yogini Temple?

Madhya Pradesh, a state in central India, is known for its rich historical and cultural heritage. Among its many ancient temples, the Chausath Yogini Temple stands out for its architectural beauty and historical significance. The temple is located in a specific city that has become famous due to this monument.

An Overview of Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh is a state in central India. Its capital city is Bhopal, and its largest city is Indore. Other important cities include Jabalpur, Gwalior, and Ujjain. Madhya Pradesh is the second biggest state in India by size and has over 72 million people. It shares borders with Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan.

Number of Districts in Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh consists of 55 districts, which are organized into 10 divisions. As of 2023, the state has 55 district panchayats, 376 tehsils, 313 block-level panchayats (janpad panchayats), and 23,043 village panchayats. The urban areas are managed by 18 municipal corporations (Nagar Nigams), 100 municipal councils (Nagar Palikas), and 264 town councils (Nagar Panchayats).

Largest and Smallest Districts of Madhya Pradesh

Chhindwara is the largest district in Madhya Pradesh, covering 11,815 square kilometers and located in the Jabalpur division. It has 13 tehsils. Niwari is the smallest district, covering just 1,170 square kilometers. Niwari is famous for its beautiful palaces, forts, and vibrant markets.

Location of Chausath Yogini Temple in Madhya Pradesh

The Chausath Yogini Temple is located in Mitaoli village, Morena district, Madhya Pradesh. It sits on a hill about 100 feet high, offering a beautiful view of the surroundings. Visitors can reach the temple by climbing 100 steps, making it a significant historical site in the region.

Architecture and Design of Chausath Yogini Temple of Madhya Pradesh

The temple has a unique circular design, with 65 chambers surrounding an open courtyard. These chambers were meant for 64 Yoginis (female deities) and the goddess Devi. The temple also features an open central shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Unlike many Indian temples, this one is open to the sky, creating a sacred space for the Yoginis, who were believed to have the ability to fly.

Historical Importance

The Chausath Yogini Temple was built during the rule of King Devapala in the 11th century. According to historical records, it was a center for learning astrology and mathematics, especially by observing the Sun’s movements. The temple is now protected as a historical monument by the Archaeological Survey of India.