THE EROTIC CARVINGS OF KHAJURAHO

About this book

The temples of Khajuraho in central India are famous for their breathtaking sandstone sculpture, and for the erotic carvings that cover their walls. Why would such imagery appear on sacred buildings? This concise guide sets out to answer that question for the general reader. Written in a clear, accessible style for non-specialists, the book gathers the major opinions, theories, myths and beliefs that surround the erotic art of Khajuraho. It looks at the history of the temple complex built by the Chandela rulers between 950 and 1050 AD, and at the social, political and religious changes in India that prepared the way for this art. It also introduces the philosophy of Tantra and other literary works that may help explain what the artisans created. The author keeps the focus on the erotic sculpture itself, and devotes one chapter to the variety of carvings and their place in the Silpa Sastra, the traditional guide to Hindu art and architecture. The book does not claim scholarly authority. It offers a readable, well-organised introduction that gives you a first understanding of the carvings and a glimpse into the mind of the master craftsman. Ideal for travellers, students of Indian culture and anyone curious about ancient art, this short book of about 11,700 words in 19 short chapters is easy to read in one sitting. Start reading online instantly in your browser, right after purchase.

Author

KUSHAGRA RAJESH SENGAR

Length

~43 pages

Reading time

51 min

Chapters

19

Released

October 24, 2026

Languages

🇬🇧 EN · 🇵🇱 PL · 🇩🇪 DE · 🇫🇷 FR · 🇪🇸 ES · 🇮🇹 IT · 🇧🇷 PT-BR · 🇲🇽 ES-MX · 🇵🇹 PT · 🇺🇦 UK · 🇨🇿 CS · 🇸🇰 SK · 🇬🇷 EL · 🇭🇺 HU · 🇹🇷 TR · 🇳🇱 NL · 🇷🇴 RO · 🇧🇬 BG · 🇭🇷 HR · 🇷🇸 SR · 🇸🇮 SL · 🇱🇹 LT · 🇱🇻 LV · 🇪🇪 ET · 🇸🇪 SV · 🇩🇰 DA · 🇳🇴 NB · 🇫🇮 FI · 🇯🇵 JA · 🇰🇷 KO · 🇨🇳 ZH · 🇹🇼 ZH-TW · 🇮🇩 ID · 🇻🇳 VI · 🇹🇭 TH · 🇮🇳 HI · 🇸🇦 AR · 🇮🇱 HE

Formats

eBook · Print edition

Print format

Paperback, 13.5 × 21 cm, 60 pages

Age rating

Mature 17+