Chandellas Of Jejakabhukti: Rise, Fall and Artistic Brilliance

The Chandellas of Jejakabhukti, from the 9th to the 13th century AD, were a remarkable dynasty in medieval India. Initially believed to be aboriginal chiefs, they rose to become influential rulers of Bundelkhand. With notable rulers like Yasovarman, Dhanga, and Vidyadhara, they expanded their territory and left a lasting legacy in art and architecture, especially evident in the magnificent temples of Khajuraho.

The Legacy of the Chandellas

1. Rise and Fall of Chandellas Of Jejakabhukti

• Feudatory Origins: The Chandellas were initially believed to be aboriginal chiefs related to the Gonds or Bhars, later rising to the status of Kshatriyas.
  • Jejjaka Ruler: Their kingdom, Jejakabhukti, was named after an early Chandella ruler named Jeja or Jejjaka.
  • They originally served as feudatories to the Gurjara Pratiharas and claimed descent from Sage Chandratreya. 
• Founder: The Chandella dynasty was founded by Nannuka (831-845 AD). [UPSC 2022]
• Important Rulers
  • Yasovarman (925-950 AD): the first autonomous Chandella ruler, broadened his realm in North India. 
    • His son, Dhanga/Dhangdev (950-999 AD), annexed Pratihara territories and supported Shahi ruler Jaipal against Subuktigin, while Ganda/Gandadev (999-1002 AD), Dhanga’s son, assisted Jaipal’s son Anandpal against Mahmud Ghazni. 
  • Vidyadhara (1003-1035 AD): (Ganda’s son), a powerful Chandella king, subdued the Pratiharas.
    • He attacked and killed the Pratihara ruler Rajyapala in 1019 AD but faced defeat when Mahmud Ghazni attacked Kalinjara in 1023.
• Decline and Revival: Kirtivarman revived Chandella fortunes by resisting a Ghazanvid invasion in 1090 AD.
  • Madanavarman and Paramardideva were notable rulers, with Madanavarman defeating several neighboring kings.
  • Paramardideva (1165-1203 AD): a later Chandella ruler, faced defeats from Prithvi Raj III and Qutbuddin Aibak, but his descendant regained Kalinjar by 1205 as Turks struggled to retain it. 
    • Kalinjar fort remained under native rulers until 1545, after which it fell to the Afghans

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2. Art and Architecture

• Chandella’s Architectural Legacy: is visible at the magnificent temples at Khajuraho.
• Khajuraho Temples: Magnificent structures famous for their beauty, design, and sculptural art.
• Artists’ Technique: Added a new dimension to temple construction, portraying gods, goddesses, and humans with expressive moods and actions.
• Utilization of Natural Resources: Chandella artists used local rocks for sculptures and sandstone from Panna quarries for temple construction.
• Depiction of Animals: Chandella art includes various animal motifs, reflecting the fauna of the region, including elephants and lions.
• Socioeconomic Reflection: Chandella art mirrors the society’s environmental, political, and economic conditions, depicting common people’s lives.
• Role of Women: Chandella art highlights the importance of women, including queens, in society, with depictions in various               roles like dancers and queens.
  • Queens like Kanchuka, Puppa, and Satyabhama held significant positions during the Chandella period, reflected in inscriptions and art.
• Integration of Nature: Chandella art showcases a deep connection with nature, incorporating flora and fauna into its motifs.
• Musical and Dance Representation: Chandella art reflects the popularity of music and dance during their reign, with depictions of performances in sculptures.

Conclusion

The Chandellas of Jejakabhukti left an indelible mark on Indian history through their rise, fall, and cultural contributions. Their architectural marvels at Khajuraho stand as a testament to their creativity and skill. Through their art, they not only depicted the society’s socio-economic situations but also celebrated nature and the role of women. The Chandellas left a lasting impact on India’s medieval history, with their legacy inspiring admiration even today.