Chandelas of Jejakabhukti

The Chandelas of Jejakabhukti were one of the most prominent Rajput dynasties that ruled over central India, particularly the region of Bundelkhand (historically known as Jejakabhukti) between the 9th and 13th centuries CE. Renowned for their patronage of art, architecture, and temple construction—especially the magnificent Khajuraho Temples—the Chandelas played a vital role in shaping the political and cultural history of early medieval northern India.

Geographical and Historical Background

The Chandela kingdom was centred in Jejakabhukti, corresponding roughly to the modern districts of Chhatarpur, Panna, Tikamgarh, and parts of Jhansi and Mahoba in present-day Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.
The term Jejakabhukti is believed to have derived from the name of an early ruler, Jeja (Jayashakti). The region lay strategically between the Yamuna and Narmada rivers, forming a link between northern and southern India. This location enabled the Chandelas to control vital trade and military routes, giving their kingdom considerable importance.

Origin and Rise of the Chandelas

The Chandelas originally emerged as feudatories of the Pratiharas, who were then the dominant power in northern India. Over time, they consolidated their position and asserted independence during the decline of the Pratihara Empire in the 9th century CE.

• The dynasty traced its lineage to the Lunar (Chandravanshi) race of the Rajputs.
• Early inscriptions and legends describe their divine descent from the Moon (Chandra) and link their origin to mythological figures, which helped legitimise their rule.

The earliest known ruler of the dynasty was Nannuka (c. 831–845 CE), who laid the foundation of Chandela power. However, the real rise of the dynasty began under his successors.

Prominent Rulers and Political Expansion

1. Vakpati (c. 845–885 CE)

• Consolidated the territories inherited from his predecessor.
• Laid the groundwork for future expansion and stability.

2. Jayashakti (Jeja) and Vijayashakti (c. 885–915 CE)

• These rulers are credited with expanding the kingdom and strengthening its military power.
• The region came to be known as Jejakabhukti, derived from Jayashakti’s name.

3. Yashovarman (c. 925–950 CE)

• Considered the first powerful Chandela ruler.
• Defeated the Pratihara ruler of Kannauj, Mahipala, marking the emergence of Chandela independence.
• Commissioned the construction of the earliest temples at Khajuraho.
• His reign marked the beginning of Chandela cultural patronage and prosperity.

4. Dhanga (c. 950–1002 CE)

• One of the most illustrious rulers of the dynasty.
• Extended the kingdom’s influence over parts of Malwa and the Ganga valley.
• Maintained relations with the Rashtrakutas and Palas.
• Known for large-scale temple construction, including the Vishwanath Temple at Khajuraho.
• During his rule, the Chandela court attained splendour comparable to other great dynasties of India.

5. Ganda (c. 1002–1017 CE)

• Continued his father’s policies and maintained stability.
• Faced early encounters with invading forces from the northwest.

6. Vidyadhara (c. 1017–1039 CE)

• The most notable ruler of the dynasty, known for his valiant resistance against Mahmud of Ghazni.
• Fought two major battles with Mahmud in 1019 CE and 1022 CE.
• Though unable to prevent Ghazni’s passage completely, Vidyadhara preserved the core of his kingdom.
• Built the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple at Khajuraho, one of the finest examples of medieval temple architecture.

7. Kirttivarman (c. 1060–1100 CE)

• Strengthened the kingdom after a brief period of decline.
• Promoted learning and temple building.
• Maintained friendly relations with neighbouring dynasties such as the Kalachuris.

8. Madanavarman (c. 1129–1165 CE)

• Last significant ruler who restored Chandela power and prestige.
• Defeated neighbouring kings, including the Kalachuris of Tripuri and the Chaulukyas of Gujarat.
• Patronised arts and architecture, continuing the temple-building tradition.

After Madanavarman’s death, the power of the Chandelas gradually waned due to internal conflicts, invasions, and the growing strength of rival dynasties like the Gahadavalas and the Delhi Sultanate.

Decline of the Chandelas

The decline of the Chandelas began in the late 12th century:

• Internal Weakness: Succession disputes weakened central authority.
• Invasions: The region faced repeated incursions from the Ghurids and Delhi Sultanate.
• Loss of Key Territories: The Ghurid invasion under Qutb-ud-din Aibak in 1203 CE dealt a severe blow to Chandela power.
• Rise of Regional Powers: Local chiefs, including the Bundelas, emerged as semi-independent rulers.

By the 13th century, the Chandelas had lost political significance, though they continued as minor local chiefs in Bundelkhand for some time.

Administration and Governance

• Feudal Structure: The Chandela polity was semi-feudal, with the king at the apex supported by feudatory chiefs.
• Efficient Administration: The kingdom was divided into provinces (vishayas) and villages (gramas), each managed by appointed officials.
• Revenue System: Land revenue was the main source of income, supplemented by taxes on trade and artisans.
• Judicial Administration: Justice was administered according to customary laws and Dharmashastra principles.

The Chandela rulers were known for their benevolent and stable governance, which contributed to the region’s prosperity and cultural development.

Art, Architecture, and Culture

The Chandelas are immortalised in Indian history for their magnificent temple architecture, particularly at Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Khajuraho Temples:

• Built between the 10th and 12th centuries CE, the temples are masterpieces of Nagara style architecture.
• Of the original 85 temples, about 25 survive today.
• The temples are dedicated to both Hindu and Jain deities, reflecting religious tolerance.
• Notable temples include:
  • Kandariya Mahadeva Temple – dedicated to Lord Shiva, renowned for its grandeur and sculptural detail.
  • Lakshmana Temple – dedicated to Vishnu, one of the earliest and best-preserved temples.
  • Chitragupta Temple – dedicated to Surya (Sun God).
  • Parswanath and Adinath Temples – Jain temples demonstrating artistic diversity.

Architectural Features:

• Elevated temple platforms (jagati), intricate carvings, and towering spires (shikharas).
• Sculptures depict divine figures, dancers, animals, and everyday life with remarkable realism.
• Erotic sculptures represent the broader theme of life’s totality—spiritual and material.

Patronage of Arts and Literature:

• The Chandela court supported poets, scholars, and artists.
• Inscriptions and literary works from the period reveal their deep interest in Sanskrit learning and fine arts.

Religion and Society

• The Chandelas were devout Hindus, primarily worshippers of Shiva, Vishnu, and Devi.
• They also extended patronage to Jainism, which had a strong following in central India.
• The coexistence of Hindu and Jain temples in Khajuraho illustrates religious tolerance and syncretism.
• Society under their rule was prosperous and culturally vibrant, marked by advances in art, sculpture, and architecture.

Legacy

The legacy of the Chandelas of Jejakabhukti endures through their architectural, cultural, and historical contributions:

1. Architectural Heritage:
   • The Khajuraho temples remain a symbol of India’s artistic excellence and are celebrated globally for their aesthetic and spiritual depth.
2. Cultural Flourishing:
   • The period witnessed a synthesis of religion, art, and literature that contributed to the richness of medieval Indian culture.
3. Political Significance:
   • The Chandelas played a crucial role in stabilising central India during a turbulent period marked by the decline of major empires.
4. Artistic Inspiration:
   • Their architectural style influenced later temple constructions across northern and central India.