https://en.bharatpedia.org/w/api.php?action=feedcontributions&feedformat=atom&user=VishvaksenaBharatpedia - User contributions [en]2026-10-08T19:27:39ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.43.6https://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chandel_Empire&diff=564961Chandel Empire2026-09-28T22:01:57Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
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<div>{{Short description|Late medieval Hindu dynasty of India (800-16th c.)}}<br />
{{pp-extended|small=yes}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=March 2013}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2022}}<br />
{{Infobox country<br />
|conventional_long_name = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
|common_name = Chandela<br />
|era = [[Medieval India]]<br />
|government_type = Monarchy<br />
|year_start = {{Circa|early 9th c.}}<br />
|year_end = 16th c.<br />
|p1 = Kalachuris of Tripuri<br />
| s1 = Mamluk dynasty (Delhi)<br />
| s2 = Mughal Empire <br />
|image_map = Map of the Candellas.png<br />
|image_map_caption = Territory of the Chandelas during the reign of [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] circa 1025 CE.<ref name="JS">{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical Atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=Oxford University Press, Digital South Asia Library|author-link=Joseph E. Schwartzberg |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/cgi-bin/reference/schwartzberg/query.py?display_type=image_display&object=183#gsc.tab=0|page=146, Map "j"}}</ref><br />
|map_width = 300px<br />
|capital = {{ubl|[[Khajuraho]]|[[Kalanjara]]|[[Mahoba]]}}<br />
|common_languages = [[Sanskrit]]<br />
|religion = {{ubl|[[Hinduism]]|[[Jainism]]}}<br />
|today = [[India]]<br />
| image_coat = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti. Sallakshana Varman. Circa 1120-1135 CE.jpg<br />
| coa_size = 280px<br />
| symbol_type = Coinage of [[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (1120–1135 CE), Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
}}<br />
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The '''Chandel Empire''' ([[Sanskrit]]: चन्देल साम्राज्य, [[IAST]]: ''Çandela empire''), also known as '''Chandelas of Jejakabhukti''' was an [[Indian]] empire during the [[medieval India|medieval period]] of the Indian subcontinent which existed from the 9th century to the 16th century CE. At its peak, the dynasty ruled an empire that stretched across more than half of the [[Indian subcontinent]], with its country called [[Jejakabhukti (Chandela country)|Jejakabhukti]]. The ruling dynasty of the empire was founded by the Chandela ruler [[Nannukavarman]], who established [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]] in the early 9th century. The dynasty belonged to the [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]] clan of the [[Rajput|Rajputs]].<ref>*{{Cite book |author=Upinder Singh|author-link=Upinder Singh|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7DRuAAAAMAAJ |title=The Discovery of Ancient India: Early Archaeologists and the Beginnings of Archaeology |date=2004 |publisher=Permanent Black |isbn=978-81-7824-088-6|page=73|quote=Discussion of the histories of various Rajput clans, such as the Chauhans, Kachhvahas, Chandelas, Pratiharas and Tomaras on the basis of a wide range of sources-literary, epigraphic, numismatic, bardic accounts and local traditions|language=en}}<br />
*{{Cite book|last1=Kulke|first1=Hermann|author-link1=Hermann Kulke|last2=Rothermund|first2=Dietmar |author-link2=Dietmar Rothermund|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TPVq3ykHyH4C|title=A History of India|date=2004|publisher=Psychology Press|isbn=978-0-415-32919-4|language=en|page=117|quote="When Gurjara Pratiharas power declined after the sacking of Kannauj by the Rashtrakutas in the early tenth century many Rajput princes declared their independence and founded their own kingdoms, some of which grew to importance in the subsequent two centuries. The better known among those dynasties were the Chaulukyas or Solankis of Gujarat and Kathiawar, the Chahamanas (i.e. Chauhans) of eastern Rajasthan (Ajmer and Jodhpur) and the Tomaras who had founded Delhi (Dhillika) in 736 but had been displaced by the Chauhans in the twelfth century. Rajput descent was also claimed by the Chandelas of Khujuraho and the Kalachuris of Tripuri"}}<br />
*{{Cite book |author=Romila Thapar|author-link=Romila Thapar|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=i6cwDwAAQBAJ |title=Early India: From the Origins to AD 1300 |date=2004|publisher=University of California Press |isbn=978-0-520-24225-8 |page=420|quote=Other claiming to be Rajputs and descended from the solar and lunar lines, established themselves as local kings in various parts of western and central India. Among them were the Chandellas, prominent in the tenth century in Bundelkhand with their centre at Khajuraho and their territory known as Jejakabhukti|language=en}}<br />
*{{harvnb|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=8}}: "The Candellas are undoubtedly a Rajput clan and the epigraphic evidences does not show that any inferiority was applied to them in the past. It reveals their matrimonial relationship with important Rajput families from the very beginning of their history"</ref><br />
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The Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti initially ruled small territories surrounding Khajuraho by overthrowing Pratiharas from there during the reign of its founder Nannukavarman. The 10th century Chandela ruler Harshavarman defeated the Rashtrakuta Empire and restored the Pratihara ruler Mahipala to the throne of Kannauj. Harsha's son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] defeated Pratiharas, palas and other kingdoms and expanded the supremacy of Chandel empire in North India. His successor [[Dhangavarman|Dhangavarman]] expanded the Chandela Empire, and stretched it over more than half of the Indian subcontinent. Vidyadharavarman was the greatest emperor who defeated Mahmud Ghaznavi twice. From the 9th to the 14th centuries, the Chandelas defeated the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramaras of Malwa]], [[Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty|Gurjara-Pratiharas]], [[Pala Empire|Palas]], [[Kambojas]], [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]], [[Magadha]]s, and [[Kalinga]]s at various times, bringing these kingdoms under feudal, subordinate, vassal, or tributary status during different periods. Many Chandela emperors also performed the [[Ashvamedha]] yajna on multiple occasions, asserting their sovereignty through the conquest and subjugation of Indian kingdoms.<br />
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They also defeated the [[Kashmiris]], [[Khasas]], [[Chaulukya dynasty|Chaulukyas]], [[Chalukya dynasty|Chalukyas]], and [[Rashtrakuta dynasty|Rashtrakutas]] at various times and captured parts of their territories, while conducting raids into [[South India]]. <br />
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From the 11th century onwards, the Chandel Empire faced raids and invasions by the [[Ghaznavid dynasty|Ghaznavids]] and the [[Ghurid dynasty|Ghurids]], followed by those of the [[Delhi Sultanate]] and other Muslim and Hindu dynasties. However, the [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti|Chandelas]] repulsed invasions by the [[Ghaznavid Empire|Ghaznavids]], [[Ghurid dynasty|Ghurids]], the [[Delhi Sultanate]], and other Muslim and Hindu dynasties, while retaining their power and independence until the 16th century.<br />
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The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture, most notably for the temples at their original capital [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]]. They also commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at other places, including their strongholds of [[Ajaigarh]], [[Kalinjar]] and their later capital [[Mahoba]].<br />
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== Origin ==<br />
The origin of the Chandelas is obscured by mythical legends. The epigraphic records of the dynasty, as well as contemporary texts such as ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' and ''Prabodha-chandrodaya'', suggest that the Chandelas belonged to the legendary [[Lunar dynasty]] (''Chandravansha'').{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} A 954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription states that the dynasty's first king [[Nannuka]] was a descendant of sage Chandratreya, who was a son of [[Atri]]. A 1002 CE Khajuraho inscription gives a slightly different account, in which Chandratreya is mentioned as a son of Indu (the Moon) and a grandson of Atri.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} The 1195 CE Baghari inscription and the 1260 CE Ajaygadh inscription contain similar accounts.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=5}} The ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' also names [[Atri]] among the ancestors of the Chandelas. Another Khajuraho inscription describes the Chandela king [[Dhanga]] as a member of the [[Vrishni]] clan of the [[Yadavas]] (who also claimed to be part of the Lunar dynasty).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}}<br />
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[[File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638391942).jpg |thumb|left|upright|Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
The ''Mahoba-Khanda'' legend of the dynasty's origin goes like this: Hemaraja, a priest of the [[Gahadavala|Gaharwar]] king of [[Varanasi|Benares]], had a beautiful daughter named Hemavati. Once, while Hemavati was bathing in a pond, the moon god [[Chandra]] saw her and made love to her. Hemavati was worried about the dishonour of being an unwed mother, but Chandra assured her that their son would become a great king. This child was the dynasty's progenitor Chandravarma. Chandra presented him with a [[philosopher's stone]] and taught him politics.<ref name="Asopa1976">{{cite book |author=Jai Narayan Asopa |title=Origin of the Rajputs |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=I_KznQEACAAJ |year=1976 |publisher=Bharatiya Publishing House |page=208}}</ref>{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} The dynasty's own records do not mention Hemavati, Hemaraja or Indrajit. Such legends appear to be later bardic inventions. In general, the ''Mahoba-Khanda'' is a historically unreliable text.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} ''Prithviraj Raso'' is also considered an historically unreliable text.<ref>{{cite book | editor=K Ayyappap Panikkar | title=Medieval Indian literature: an anthology (Volume 1) | author = Vijayendra Snatak | chapter = Medieval Hindi Literature | chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KYLpvaKJIMEC&pg=PA142 |year=1997 | publisher=Sahitya Akademi | isbn=978-81-260-0365-5 | page=142}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Serving empire, serving nation: James Tod and the Rajputs of Rajasthan |first=Jason |last=Freitag |publisher=BRILL |year=2009 |isbn=978-90-04-17594-5 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ib93BhAu43gC |pages=3–5}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=R. V. Somani |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NcIBAAAAMAAJ |title=History of Mewar, from Earliest Times to 1751 A.D. |publisher=Mateshwari |year=1976 |oclc=2929852 |page= 30}}</ref><br />
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[[File:Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh.jpg|thumb|Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh. [[Metropolitan Museum of Art]].]]<br />
British indologist [[Vincent Arthur Smith|V. A. Smith]] theorized that the Chandelas were of either [[Bhar]] or [[Gondi people|Gond]] origin. Some other scholars including [[R. C. Majumdar]] also supported this theory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=6}} The Chandelas worshipped Maniya, a tribal goddess, whose temples are located at Mahoba and Maniyagadh.<ref name="Ali_2008">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iXVNBAAAQBAJ&pg=PA44 |title=World Heritage Monuments and Related Edifices in India |volume=1 |author=Ali Javid and Tabassum Javeed |publisher=Algora |year=2008 |isbn=9780875864822 |page=44 }}</ref> Besides, they have been associated with places that are also associated with Bhars and Gonds. Also, [[Rani Durgavati]], whose family claimed Chandela descent married a Gond chief of [[Mandla|Garha-Mandla]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Historian R. K. Dikshit does not find these arguments convincing: he argues that Maniya was not a tribal deity.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}} Also, the dynasty's association with Gond territory is not necessarily indicative of a common descent: the dynasty's progenitor may have been posted as a governor in these territories.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Finally, Durgavati's marriage to a Gond chief can be dismissed as a one-off case.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}}<br />
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==History==<br />
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=== Early rulers ===<br />
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The Chandelas were originally vassals of the [[Gurjara-Pratiharas]].<ref>Radhey Shyam Chaurasia, History of Ancient India: Earliest Times to 1000 A. D.</ref> [[Nannuka]] (r. {{Circa|831}}–845 CE), the founder of the dynasty, was the ruler of a small kingdom centered around [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]].<ref>{{cite book |author=Sailendra Sen |title=A Textbook of Medieval Indian History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UdW6lAEACAAJ |year=2013 |publisher=Primus |isbn=978-93-80607-34-4 |page=22}}</ref><br />
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According to the Chandela inscriptions, Nannuka's successor [[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] defeated several enemies.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=27-28}} Vakpati's sons [[Jayashakti]] (Jeja) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vija) consolidated the Chandela power.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=30}} According to a [[Mahoba]] inscription, the Chandela territory was named "Jejakabhukti" after the Jayashakti.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=28}} Vijayashakti's successor [[Rahila]] is credited with several military victories in eulogistic inscriptions.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=30–31}} Rahila's son [[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]] played an important role in restoring the rule of the Pratihara king [[Mahipala I|Mahipala]], possibly after a [[Rashtrakuta]] invasion or after Mahiapala's conflict with his step-brother [[Bhoja II (Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty)|Bhoja II]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=32–35}}<br />
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=== Rise as a sovereign power ===<br />
[[File:Kirtivarman Chandela visits the temple of Khajurahu.jpg|thumb|A 20th century artist's imagination of Kirtivarman Chandela visiting a [[Khajuraho]] temple]]<br />
Harsha's son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] (r. c. 925–950 CE) continued to acknowledge the Pratihara suzerainty, but became practically independent.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=36–37}} He conquered the important fortress of [[Kalanjara]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}} A 953–954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription credits him with several other military successes, including against [[Gauḍa (region)|Gaudas]] (identified with the [[Pala Empire|Palas]]), the [[Khasas]], the [[Chedi Kingdom|Chedis]] (the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]), the [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosalas]] (possibly the [[Somavaṃśī dynasty|Somavamshis]]), the [[Mithila (ancient)|Mithila]] (possibly a small tributary ruler), [[Malwa|Malavas]] (identified with the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramaras]]), the [[Kuru Kingdom|Kurus]], the [[Kasmira Kingdom|Kashmiris]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=42-51}} These claims appear to be exaggerated, as similar claims of extensive conquests in northern India are also found in the records of the other contemporary kings such as the Kalachuri king Yuva-Raja and the Rashtrakuta king [[Krishna III]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=42}} Yashovarman's reign marked the beginning of the famous Chandela-era art and architecture. He commissioned the [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}}<br />
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Unlike the earlier Chandela inscriptions, the records of Yashovarman's successor [[Dhanga]] (r. c. 950–999 CE) do not mention any Pratihara overlord. This indicates that Dhanga formally established the Chandela sovereignty.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=57}} A Khajuraho inscription claims that the rulers of [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosala]], Kratha (part of [[Vidarbha]] region), [[Kuntala country|Kuntala]], and [[Sinhala Kingdom|Simhala]] listened humbly to the commands of Dhanga's officers. It also claims that the wives of the kings of [[Andhra Kingdom|Andhra]], [[Anga]], [[Kanchi Kingdom|Kanchi]] and [[Rarh region|Raḍha]] resided in his prisons as a result of his success in wars. These appear to be eulogistic exaggerations by a court poet, but suggest that Dhanga did undertake extensive military campaigns.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=56}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=61–65}} Like his predecessor, Dhanga also commissioned a magnificent temple at Khajuraho, which is identified as the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=69}}<br />
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Dhanga's successor [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda]] appears to have retained the territory he inherited.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72}} His son [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] killed theking of [[Kannauj]] (possibly Rajyapala) for fleeing his capital instead of fighting the [[Ghaznavid]] invader [[Mahmud of Ghazni]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72–73}}{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=72}} Mahmud later invaded Vidyadhara's kingdom; according to the Muslim invaders, this conflict ended with Vidyadhara paying tribute to Mahmud.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=81–82}} Vidyadhara is noted for having commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=26}}<br />
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The Chandela art and architecture reached its zenith during this period. The [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] (c. 930–950 CE), the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]] (c. 999–1002 CE) and the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] (c. 1030 CE) were constructed during the reigns of Yashovarman, Dhanga and Vidyadhara respectively. These [[Nagara architecture|Nagara-style]] temples are representative of the most fully developed style at Khajuraho.<ref name="James_1994">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LwcBVvdqyBkC&pg=PA234 |title=The Art and Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent |author=James C. Harle |publisher=Yale University Press |year=1994 |page=234 |isbn=0300062176 }}</ref><br />
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<gallery mode="packed" caption="Nagara-style temples of Khajuraho"><br />
India-5679 - Flickr - archer10 (Dennis).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]]<br />
File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638423582).jpg|[[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha Temple]]<br />
Vishwanath N-MP-23.jpg | [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]]<br />
A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg | [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]]<br />
</gallery><br />
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=== Decline ===<br />
[[File:Mahadeva Temple, Khajuraho.jpg|thumb|[[Surasundari]] and [[vyala]], [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
[[File:Le Temple Kandariya Mahadeva (Khajurâho) (8503001895).jpg|thumb|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple|Kandariya Mahadeva temple]] carvings.]]<br />
By the end of Vidyadhara's reign, the [[Ghaznavid]] invasions had weakened the Chandela kingdom. Taking advantage of this, the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]] conquered eastern parts of the kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=89–90}} Chandela inscriptions suggest that Vidyadhara's successor [[Vijayapala]] (r. c. 1035–1050 CE) defeated Gangeya in a battle.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=88}} However, the Chandela power started declining during the Vijayapala's reign.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=101}} The [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghatas]] of [[Gwalior]] probably gave up their allegiance to the Chandelas during this period.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=90}}<br />
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Vijayapala's elder son [[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavavarman]] was subjugated by Gangeya's son [[Lakshmikarna|Lakshmi-Karna]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=91}} His younger brother [[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]] resurrected the Chandela power by defeating Lakshmi-Karna.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=94}} Kirtivarman's son [[Sallakshanavarman]] achieved military successes against the Paramaras and the Kalachuris, possibly by raiding their territories. A [[Mau, Uttar Pradesh|Mau]] inscription suggests that he also conducted successful campaigns in the Antarvedi region (the Ganga-Yamuna [[doab]]).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=120-121}} His son [[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]] was of religious temperament and abdicated the throne after being tired of governance.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=126}}<br />
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Jayavarman appears to have died heirless, as he was succeeded by his uncle [[Prithvivarman]], the younger son of Kirttivarman.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=110–111}} The Chandela inscriptions do not ascribe any military achievements to him; it appears that he was focused on maintaining the existing Chandela territories without adopting an aggressive expansionist policy.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=111}}<br />
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=== Revival ===<br />
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By the time Prithvivarman's son [[Madanavarman]] (r. c. 1128–1165 CE) ascended the throne, the neighbouring [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] and [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] kingdoms had been weakened by enemy invasions. Taking advantage of this situation, Madanavarman defeated the Kalachuri king [[Gayakarna|Gaya-Karna]], and possibly annexed the northern part of the [[Baghelkhand]] region.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132}} However, the Chandelas lost this territory to Gaya-Karna's successor [[Narasimha (Kalachuri dynasty)|Narasimha]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}} Madanavarman also captured the territory on the western periphery of the Paramara kingdom, around [[Bhilsa]] (Vidisha). This probably happened during the reign of the Paramara king [[Yashovarman (Paramara dynasty)|Yashovarman]] or his son [[Jayavarman I (Paramara dynasty)|Jayavarman]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=130–132}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=112-113}} Once again, the Chandelas could not retain the newly annexed territory for long, and the region was recaptured by Yashovarman's son Lakshmivarman.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}}<br />
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[[Jayasimha Siddharaja]], the [[Chaulukya]] king of Gujarat, also invaded the Paramara territory, which was located between the Chandela and the Chaulukya kingdoms. This brought him in conflict with Madanavarman. The result of this conflict appears to have been inconclusive, as records of both the kingdoms claim victory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=133}} A [[Kalanjara]] inscription suggests that Madanavarman defeated Jayasimha. On the other hand, the various chronicles of Gujarat claim that Jayasimha either defeated Madanavarman or extracted a tribute from him.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=133–134}} Madanavarman maintained friendly relations with his northern neighbours, the [[Gahadavala]]s.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132-133}}<br />
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Madanavarman's son [[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]] either did not rule, or ruled for a very short time. Madanavarman's grandson [[Paramardi|Paramardi-deva]] was the last powerful Chandela king.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=130}}<br />
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=== Final decline ===<br />
{{South Asia in 1175||Location of the Chandelas and neighbouring South Asian polities in 1175, on the eve of the [[Ghurid Empire]] invasion of the subcontinent.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=University of Chicago Press |location=Chicago |pages=37, 147|isbn=0226742210 |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/schwartzberg/pager.html?object=074}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Eaton |first1=Richard M. |title=India in the Persianate Age: 1000-1765 |date=25 July 2019 |publisher=Penguin UK |isbn=978-0-14-196655-7 |page=38 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aIF6DwAAQBAJ&pg=PP31 |language=en}}</ref>|{{Annotation|152|90|[[File:Orange dot (semi-transparent).png|35px]]}}}}<br />
[[Paramardi]] (reigned c. 1165-1203 CE) ascended the Chandela throne at a young age. While the early years of his reign were peaceful, around 1182–1183 CE, the [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari|Chahamana]] ruler [[Prithviraj Chauhan]] invaded the Chandela kingdom. According to the medieval legendary ballads, Prithviraj's army lost its way after a surprise attack by ([[Ghurid]]) [[Turkic peoples|Turkic]] forces, and unknowingly camped at the Chandela capital [[Mahoba]]. This led to a brief conflict between the Chandelas and the Chauhans, before Prithviraj left for Delhi. Sometime later, Prithviraj invaded the Chandela kingdom and sacked Mahoba. Paramardi cowardly took shelter in the [[Kalanjara]] fort. The Chandela force, led by [[Alha]], Udal [[banaphar]], rajputs, of Mahoba|Udal]] and other generals, was defeated in this battle. Nowadays [[ahir]], caste claims alha udal but according to historians and alha khand and mahoba khand they belongs to [[banaphar]], clan of [[rajput]], caste and their mother was of [[ahir]], which is why they are called of mixed origin.According to the various ballads, Paramardi either committed suicide out of shame or retired to [[Gaya, India|Gaya]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=120–123}}<br />
<br />
Prithviraj Chauhan's raid of Mahoba is corroborated by his [[Madanpur, Lalitpur, India|Madanpur]] stone inscriptions. However, there are several instances of historical inaccuracies in the bardic legends. For example, it is known that Paramardi did not retire or die immediately after the Chauhan victory. He restored the Chandela power, and ruled as a sovereign until around 1202–1203 CE, when [[Qutb al-Din Aibak]], the [[Ghurid Empire]] governor of [[Delhi]], invaded the Chandela kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=123–126}} According to ''Taj-ul-Maasir'', a chronicle of the [[Delhi Sultanate]], Paramardi surrendered to the Delhi forces. He promised to pay tribute to the Sultan, but died before he could keep this promise. His [[dewan]] offered some resistance to the invading forces, but was ultimately subdued. The 16th century historian [[Firishta]] states that Paramardi was assassinated by his own minister, who disagreed with the king's decision to surrender to the Delhi forces.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela power did not fully recover from their defeat against the Delhi forces. Paramardi was succeeded by [[Trailokyavarman]], [[Viravarman]] and [[Bhojavarman]]. The next ruler [[Hammiravarman]] (r. c. 1288–1311 CE) did not use the imperial title [[Maharajadhiraja]], which indicates that the Chandela king had a lower status by his time. The Chandela power continued to decline because of the rising Muslim influence, as well as the rise of other local dynasties, such as the [[Bundela]]s, the Baghelas and the [[Khangar (community)|Khangars]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=179}}<br />
<br />
Hammiravarman was succeeded by Viravarman II, whose titles do not indicate a high political status.{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}{{sfn|Om Prakash Misra|2003|p=11}} [[Chandelas of Kalanjara (minor Chandela branch)|One minor branch of the family continued ruling Kalanjara]]: its ruler was killed by [[Sher Shah Suri]]'s army in 1545 CE. Another minor branch ruled at [[Mahoba]]: [[Rani Durgavati|Durgavati]], one of its princesses married into the [[Garha Kingdom|Gond]] royal family of [[Mandla]]. Some other ruling families also claimed Chandela descent (see [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]]).{{sfn|Romila Thapar|2013|p=572}}<br />
<br />
== Art and architecture ==<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture. They commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at various places. The most famous example of their cultural achievements are the Hindu and Jain temples at [[Khajuraho]]. Three other important Chandela strongholds were Jayapura-Durga (modern [[Ajaigarh]]), Kalanjara (modern [[Kalinjar]]) and Mahotsava-Nagara (modern [[Mahoba]]).{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela architecture"><br />
Khajuraho Dulhadeo 2010.jpg | Dulhadeo temple, Khajuraho<br />
0B Ajaigarh 4 sides temple.jpg | Ajaigarh temple<br />
Yajna mandap in kulpahar.jpg | A [[yajna]] [[mandapa]] at [[Kulpahar]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
Other smaller Chandela sites include Chandpur, [[Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh|Deogarh]], Dudahi, [[Kakadeo]], Madanpur and [[Aharji Jain Teerth|Aharji]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<ref>{{cite book |last1=Titze |first1=Kurt |last2=Bruhn|first2=Klaus |title=Jainism: A Pictorial Guide to the Religion of Non-Violence |url={{Google books|loQkEIf8z5wC|page=123|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=[[Motilal Banarsidass]] |edition=2 |year=1998 |isbn=978-81-208-1534-6 | page=128 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Reddy |first=P. Chenny | author-link=P. Chenna Reddy |title=Kalyana Mitra: A treasure house of history, culture and archaeological studies | volume=5 |url={{Google books|prCqEAAAQBAJ|page=197|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=Blue Rose Publishers |year=2023 |isbn=978-93-5741-111-0 | page=197 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela sculptures"><br />
Brahma and his consort.jpg | Brahma and his consort, Khajuraho<br />
Ajaygarh Alians ship.jpg | Stone carving, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Neel Swarshwati.jpg | Jain [[tirthankara]]s and [[Sarasvati]], Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh seven heavens of Jain.jpg | Jain heavens, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Shramanas Egyptian style rock cut.jpg | Jain [[shramana]]s, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh treasure sign.jpg | Cattle with treasure sign, Ajaigarh<br />
35. Khajuraho Visvanath apsara.jpg | [[Surasundari]] [[Apsara]], Khajuraho<br />
Khajuraho 126.jpg | Dancing Ganesha, Khajuraho<br />
<br />
Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638393390).jpg | [[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha temple]] carvings<br />
Le Temple de Lakshmana (Khajurâho) (8498182643).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana temple]] carvings<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== List of Rulers==<br />
<br />
Based on epigraphic records, the historians have come up with the following list of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti ([[IAST]] names in brackets):{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=25}}{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=25}}{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+List of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti<br />
! S.N.<br />
! Ruler's regional name ([[IAST]] name in bracket)<br />
! Reign (CE)<br />
|-<br />
|1<br />
|[[Nannuka]]<br />
|831–845<br />
|-<br />
|2<br />
|[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] (Vākpati)<br />
|845–865<br />
|-<br />
|3<br />
|[[Jayashakti]] (Jayaśakti) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vijayaśakti)<br />
|865–885<br />
|-<br />
|4<br />
|[[Rahila]] (Rāhila)<br />
|885–905<br />
|-<br />
|5<br />
|[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Shri Harsha]] (Śri Harśa)<br />
|905–925<br />
|-<br />
|6<br />
|[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman]] (Yaśovarman)<br />
|925–950<br />
|-<br />
|7<br />
|[[Dhangavarman]] <br />
|950–999<br />
|-<br />
|8<br />
|[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda-Deva]] (Gaṇḍadeva)<br />
|999–1002<br />
|-<br />
|9<br />
|[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] (Vidyādhara)<br />
|1003–1035<br />
|-<br />
|10<br />
|[[Vijayapala|Vijaya-Pala]] (Vijayapāla)<br />
|1035–1050<br />
|-<br />
|11<br />
|[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Deva-Varman]]<br />
|1050–1060<br />
|-<br />
|12<br />
|[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirtti-Varman]] (Kīrtivarman)<br />
|1060–1100<br />
|-<br />
|13<br />
|[[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (Sallakṣaṇavarman)<br />
|1100–1110<br />
|-<br />
|14<br />
|[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jaya-Varman]]<br />
|1110–1120<br />
|-<br />
|15<br />
|[[Prithvivarman|Prithvi-Varman]] (Pṛthvīvarman)<br />
|1120–1128<br />
|-<br />
|16<br />
|[[Madanavarman|Madana-Varman]]<br />
|1128–1164<br />
|-<br />
|17<br />
|[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman II]]<br />
|1164–1165<br />
|-<br />
|18<br />
|[[Paramardideva|Paramardi-Deva]]<br />
|1165–1203<br />
|-<br />
|19<br />
|[[Trailokyavarman|Trailokya-Varman]]<br />
|1203–1245<br />
|-<br />
|20<br />
|[[Viravarman|Vira-Varman]] (Vīravarman)<br />
|1245–1285<br />
|-<br />
|21<br />
|[[Bhojavarman|Bhoja-Varman]]<br />
|1285–1288<br />
|-<br />
|22<br />
|[[Hammiravarman|Hammira-Varman]] (Hammīravarman)<br />
|1288–1311<br />
|-<br />
|23<br />
|Vira-Varman II<br />
|1311–1315<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Family tree ==<br />
<br />
{{Chart top|width=100%|collapsed=yes|Chandela dynasty}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart/start|align=center|style=font-size:90%}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Nannuka]]'''<br><sup>(1)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 831-845</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]]'''<br><sup>(2)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 845-865</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(3)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Vijayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(4)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Rahila]]'''<br><sup>(5)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 885-905</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]]'''<br><sup>(6)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 905-925</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman I]]'''<br><sup>(7)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 925-950</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Dhanga]]deva'''<br><sup>(8)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 950-999</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandadeva]]'''<br><sup>(9)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 999-1002</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]]'''<br><sup>(10)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1003-1035</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vijayapala]]'''<br><sup>(11)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1035-1050</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavarman]]'''<br><sup>(12)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1050-1060</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]]'''<br><sup>(13)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1060-1100</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Sallakshanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(14)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1100-1110</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Prithvivarman]]'''<br><sup>(16)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1120-1128</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]]'''<br><sup>(15)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1110-1120</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Madanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(17)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1128-1165</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]]'''<br><sup>(18)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|+|-|-|-|.| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Paramardi]]'''<br><sup>(19)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165-1203</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Viravarman]]'''<br><sup>(21)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1245-1285</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03=Child of<br>Yashovarman}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Trailokyavarman]]'''<br><sup>(20)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1203–1245</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Hammiravarman]]'''<br><sup>(23)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1288-1311</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03='''[[Bhojavarman]]'''<br><sup>(22)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1285-1288</small>|boxstyle_A03=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart/end}}<br />
<br />
{{Chart bottom}}<br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[History of Madhya Pradesh]]<br />
* [[Chandel (Rajput clan)]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kalanjara]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kumaun]]<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Harihar Vitthal Trivedi |title=Inscriptions of the Paramāras (Part 2) |series=Corpus Inscriptionum Indicarum Volume VII: Inscriptions of the Paramāras, Chandēllas, Kachchapaghātas, and two minor dynasties |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8B4LAQAAMAAJ |year=1991 |publisher=[[Archaeological Survey of India]] }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Om Prakash Misra |title=Archaeological Excavations in Central India: Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=o0ISjDDWJwQC&pg=PA11 |year=2003 |publisher=Mittal Publications |isbn=978-81-7099-874-7 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Peter Jackson |author-link=Peter Jackson (historian) |title=The Delhi Sultanate: A Political and Military History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=lt2tqOpVRKgC&pg=PA199 |year=2003 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-0-521-54329-3 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=R. K. Dikshit |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130 |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Romila Thapar |author-link=Romila Thapar |title=The Past Before Us |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aei9AAAAQBAJ&pg=PA571 |year=2013 |publisher=Harvard University Press |isbn=978-0-674-72651-2 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sisirkumar Mitra |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA113 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sushil Kumar Sullerey |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{refend}}<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
* {{commons category-inline|Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti| ]]<br />
[[Category:Medieval Indian dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Hindu dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Bundelkhand]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:9th-century establishments in India]]<br />
[[Category:14th-century disestablishments in India]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Siege_of_Kalinjar_(1022)&diff=564960Siege of Kalinjar (1022)2026-09-28T22:00:05Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox military conflict<br />
| conflict = Siege of Kalinjar<br />
| partof = [[Ghaznavid campaigns in India]]<br />
| date = 1022<br />
| place = [[Kalinjar Fort]], [[Jejakabhukti Country]]<br />
| result = Chandela victory; Mahmud negotiated peace and withdrew<br />
| combatant1 = [[Ghaznavid Empire]]<br />
| combatant2 = [[Chandel Empire]]<br />
| commander1 = [[Mahmud of Ghazni]]<br />
| commander2 = [[Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)|Vidyadhara Varman]]<br />
| strength1 = Unknown<br />
| strength2 = Unknown<br />
| casualties1 = Unknown<br />
| casualties2 = Unknown<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Siege of Kalinjar''' was a military conflict fought in 1022 between the [[Ghaznavid Empire]], led by [[Mahmud of Ghazni]], and the [[Chandel Empire]], ruled by [[Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)|Vidyadhara Varman]]. To avenge his defeat in 1019, Mahmud invaded the [[Chandel Empire]] and besieged [[Kalinjar Fort]], the military capital of the Chandel Empire. The Ghaznavid army failed to capture the fortress and was defeated. Mahmud subsequently negotiated a peace settlement with Vidyadhara and withdrew.<br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
In 1019, Mahmud of Ghazni attacked the Chandela emperor Vidyadhara Varman to punish him for killing the Ghaznavid vassal, but this conflict ended with Mahmud's defeat at the hands of Vidyadhara Varman. <br />
<br />
To avenge his defeat in 1019, Mahmud returned to India with a renewed campaign against the [[Chandel Empire]], this time leading a large army. After advancing through central India and attacking and subduing the Kachhapaghatas of [[Gwalior Fort]], whose king was a haakim of Chandelas, he proceeded towards [[Kalinjar Fort]], the capital of the Chandel Empire, where he began the siege against Vidyadhara Varman.<br />
<br />
== Siege ==<br />
<br />
Mahmud's army surrounded Kalinjar and began a siege of the fortress. The Ghaznavid forces made repeated efforts to overcome the fortifications, but were unable to capture Kalinjar. The fortress's elevated position and strong defensive works made a direct assault difficult.<br />
<br />
After failing to take the fortress by force and being defeated by Vidyadhara Varman again, Mahmud entered into negotiations with Vidyadhara Varman. The siege was brought to an end through a negotiated peace settlement rather than the capture of Kalinjar. Accounts describe an exchange of valuable gifts, including elephants, between the two rulers.<br />
<br />
== Aftermath ==<br />
<br />
Following the negotiations, Mahmud withdrew from Kalinjar and returned towards Ghazni. The [[Chandel Empire]] retained control of Kalinjar, and the fortress was not incorporated into the Ghaznavid Empire.<br />
<br />
The outcome has been interpreted differently in the surviving sources. Persian chroniclers portrayed the expedition as a success for Mahmud, while modern historical interpretations emphasize that he was defeated by Vidyadhara Varman and failed to capture Kalinjar and withdrew after reaching a negotiated settlement with Vidyadhara Varman.</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Siege_of_Kalinjar_(1022)&diff=564959Siege of Kalinjar (1022)2026-09-28T21:59:24Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox military conflict<br />
| conflict = Siege of Kalinjar<br />
| partof = [[Ghaznavid campaigns in India]]<br />
| date = 1022<br />
| place = [[Kalinjar Fort]], [[Jejakabhukti Country]]<br />
| result = Chandela victory; Mahmud negotiated peace and withdrew<br />
| combatant1 = [[Ghaznavid Empire]]<br />
| combatant2 = [[Chandel Empire]]<br />
| commander1 = [[Mahmud of Ghazni]]<br />
| commander2 = [[Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)|Vidyadhara Varman]]<br />
| strength1 = Unknown<br />
| strength2 = Unknown<br />
| casualties1 = Unknown<br />
| casualties2 = Unknown<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Siege of Kalinjar''' was a military conflict fought in 1022 between the [[Ghaznavid Empire]], led by [[Mahmud of Ghazni]], and the [[Chandel Empire]], ruled by [[Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)|Vidyadhara Varman]]. Mahmud's forces invaded the [[Chandel Empire]] and besieged [[Kalinjar Fort]], the military capital of the Chandel Empire. The Ghaznavid army failed to capture the fortress and was defeated. Mahmud subsequently negotiated a peace settlement with Vidyadhara Varman and withdrew.<br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
In 1019, Mahmud of Ghazni attacked the Chandela emperor Vidyadhara Varman to punish him for killing the Ghaznavid vassal, but this conflict ended with Mahmud's defeat at the hands of Vidyadhara Varman. <br />
<br />
To avenge his defeat in 1019, Mahmud returned to India with a renewed campaign against the [[Chandel Empire]], this time leading a large army. After advancing through central India and attacking and subduing the Kachhapaghatas of [[Gwalior Fort]], whose king was a haakim of Chandelas, he proceeded towards [[Kalinjar Fort]], the capital of the Chandel Empire, where he began the siege against Vidyadhara Varman.<br />
<br />
== Siege ==<br />
<br />
Mahmud's army surrounded Kalinjar and began a siege of the fortress. The Ghaznavid forces made repeated efforts to overcome the fortifications, but were unable to capture Kalinjar. The fortress's elevated position and strong defensive works made a direct assault difficult.<br />
<br />
After failing to take the fortress by force and being defeated by Vidyadhara Varman again, Mahmud entered into negotiations with Vidyadhara Varman. The siege was brought to an end through a negotiated peace settlement rather than the capture of Kalinjar. Accounts describe an exchange of valuable gifts, including elephants, between the two rulers.<br />
<br />
== Aftermath ==<br />
<br />
Following the negotiations, Mahmud withdrew from Kalinjar and returned towards Ghazni. The [[Chandel Empire]] retained control of Kalinjar, and the fortress was not incorporated into the Ghaznavid Empire.<br />
<br />
The outcome has been interpreted differently in the surviving sources. Persian chroniclers portrayed the expedition as a success for Mahmud, while modern historical interpretations emphasize that he was defeated by Vidyadhara Varman and failed to capture Kalinjar and withdrew after reaching a negotiated settlement with Vidyadhara Varman.</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Siege_of_Kalinjar_(1022)&diff=564958Siege of Kalinjar (1022)2026-09-28T21:58:12Z<p>Vishvaksena: /* Background */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox military conflict<br />
| conflict = Siege of Kalinjar<br />
| partof = [[Ghaznavid campaigns in India]]<br />
| date = 1022<br />
| place = [[Kalinjar Fort]], [[Jejakabhukti Country]]<br />
| result = Chandela victory; Mahmud negotiated peace and withdrew<br />
| combatant1 = [[Ghaznavid Empire]]<br />
| combatant2 = [[Chandel Empire]]<br />
| commander1 = [[Mahmud of Ghazni]]<br />
| commander2 = [[Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)|Vidyadhara Varman]]<br />
| strength1 = Unknown<br />
| strength2 = Unknown<br />
| casualties1 = Unknown<br />
| casualties2 = Unknown<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Siege of Kalinjar''' was a military conflict fought in 1022 between the [[Ghaznavid Empire]], led by [[Mahmud of Ghazni]], and the [[Chandel Empire]], ruled by [[Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)|Vidyadhara Varman]]. Mahmud's forces invaded the [[Chandel Empire]] and besieged [[Kalinjar Fort]], the military capital of the Chandel Empire. The Ghaznavid army failed to capture the fortress and was defeated. Mahmud subsequently negotiated a peace settlement with Vidyadhara Varman and withdrew.<br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
In 1019, Mahmud of Ghazni attacked the Chandela emperor Vidyadhara Varman to punish him for killing the Ghaznavid vassal, but this conflict ended with Mahmud's defeat at the hands of Vidyadhara Varman. <br />
<br />
In 1022, for defeat of his revenge, Mahmud returned to India with a renewed campaign against the [[Chandel Empire]], this time leading a large army. After advancing through central India and attacking and subduing the Kachhapaghatas of [[Gwalior Fort]], whose king was a haakim of Chandelas, he proceeded towards [[Kalinjar Fort]], the capital of the Chandel Empire, where he began the siege against Vidyadhara Varman.<br />
<br />
== Siege ==<br />
<br />
Mahmud's army surrounded Kalinjar and began a siege of the fortress. The Ghaznavid forces made repeated efforts to overcome the fortifications, but were unable to capture Kalinjar. The fortress's elevated position and strong defensive works made a direct assault difficult.<br />
<br />
After failing to take the fortress by force and being defeated by Vidyadhara Varman again, Mahmud entered into negotiations with Vidyadhara Varman. The siege was brought to an end through a negotiated peace settlement rather than the capture of Kalinjar. Accounts describe an exchange of valuable gifts, including elephants, between the two rulers.<br />
<br />
== Aftermath ==<br />
<br />
Following the negotiations, Mahmud withdrew from Kalinjar and returned towards Ghazni. The [[Chandel Empire]] retained control of Kalinjar, and the fortress was not incorporated into the Ghaznavid Empire.<br />
<br />
The outcome has been interpreted differently in the surviving sources. Persian chroniclers portrayed the expedition as a success for Mahmud, while modern historical interpretations emphasize that he was defeated by Vidyadhara Varman and failed to capture Kalinjar and withdrew after reaching a negotiated settlement with Vidyadhara Varman.</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Siege_of_Kalinjar_(1022)&diff=564957Siege of Kalinjar (1022)2026-09-28T21:58:00Z<p>Vishvaksena: /* Background */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox military conflict<br />
| conflict = Siege of Kalinjar<br />
| partof = [[Ghaznavid campaigns in India]]<br />
| date = 1022<br />
| place = [[Kalinjar Fort]], [[Jejakabhukti Country]]<br />
| result = Chandela victory; Mahmud negotiated peace and withdrew<br />
| combatant1 = [[Ghaznavid Empire]]<br />
| combatant2 = [[Chandel Empire]]<br />
| commander1 = [[Mahmud of Ghazni]]<br />
| commander2 = [[Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)|Vidyadhara Varman]]<br />
| strength1 = Unknown<br />
| strength2 = Unknown<br />
| casualties1 = Unknown<br />
| casualties2 = Unknown<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Siege of Kalinjar''' was a military conflict fought in 1022 between the [[Ghaznavid Empire]], led by [[Mahmud of Ghazni]], and the [[Chandel Empire]], ruled by [[Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)|Vidyadhara Varman]]. Mahmud's forces invaded the [[Chandel Empire]] and besieged [[Kalinjar Fort]], the military capital of the Chandel Empire. The Ghaznavid army failed to capture the fortress and was defeated. Mahmud subsequently negotiated a peace settlement with Vidyadhara Varman and withdrew.<br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
In 1019, Mahmud of Ghazni attacked the Chandela emperor to punish him for killing the Ghaznavid vassal, but this conflict ended with Mahmud's defeat at the hands of Vidyadhara Varman. <br />
<br />
In 1022, for defeat of his revenge, Mahmud returned to India with a renewed campaign against the [[Chandel Empire]], this time leading a large army. After advancing through central India and attacking and subduing the Kachhapaghatas of [[Gwalior Fort]], whose king was a haakim of Chandelas, he proceeded towards [[Kalinjar Fort]], the capital of the Chandel Empire, where he began the siege against Vidyadhara Varman.<br />
<br />
== Siege ==<br />
<br />
Mahmud's army surrounded Kalinjar and began a siege of the fortress. The Ghaznavid forces made repeated efforts to overcome the fortifications, but were unable to capture Kalinjar. The fortress's elevated position and strong defensive works made a direct assault difficult.<br />
<br />
After failing to take the fortress by force and being defeated by Vidyadhara Varman again, Mahmud entered into negotiations with Vidyadhara Varman. The siege was brought to an end through a negotiated peace settlement rather than the capture of Kalinjar. Accounts describe an exchange of valuable gifts, including elephants, between the two rulers.<br />
<br />
== Aftermath ==<br />
<br />
Following the negotiations, Mahmud withdrew from Kalinjar and returned towards Ghazni. The [[Chandel Empire]] retained control of Kalinjar, and the fortress was not incorporated into the Ghaznavid Empire.<br />
<br />
The outcome has been interpreted differently in the surviving sources. Persian chroniclers portrayed the expedition as a success for Mahmud, while modern historical interpretations emphasize that he was defeated by Vidyadhara Varman and failed to capture Kalinjar and withdrew after reaching a negotiated settlement with Vidyadhara Varman.</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Siege_of_Kalinjar_(1022)&diff=564956Siege of Kalinjar (1022)2026-09-28T21:53:53Z<p>Vishvaksena: /* Background */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox military conflict<br />
| conflict = Siege of Kalinjar<br />
| partof = [[Ghaznavid campaigns in India]]<br />
| date = 1022<br />
| place = [[Kalinjar Fort]], [[Jejakabhukti Country]]<br />
| result = Chandela victory; Mahmud negotiated peace and withdrew<br />
| combatant1 = [[Ghaznavid Empire]]<br />
| combatant2 = [[Chandel Empire]]<br />
| commander1 = [[Mahmud of Ghazni]]<br />
| commander2 = [[Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)|Vidyadhara Varman]]<br />
| strength1 = Unknown<br />
| strength2 = Unknown<br />
| casualties1 = Unknown<br />
| casualties2 = Unknown<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Siege of Kalinjar''' was a military conflict fought in 1022 between the [[Ghaznavid Empire]], led by [[Mahmud of Ghazni]], and the [[Chandel Empire]], ruled by [[Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)|Vidyadhara Varman]]. Mahmud's forces invaded the [[Chandel Empire]] and besieged [[Kalinjar Fort]], the military capital of the Chandel Empire. The Ghaznavid army failed to capture the fortress and was defeated. Mahmud subsequently negotiated a peace settlement with Vidyadhara Varman and withdrew.<br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
<br />
In 1019, Mahmud of Ghazni encountered the forces of the Chandela emeperor [[Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)|Vidyadhara Varman]] during his campaign in northern India. The confrontation ended without Mahmud achieving his objective against the [[Chandel Empire]], while Vidyadhara's forces demonstrated the military strength of the Chandel Empire.<br />
<br />
In 1022, Mahmud returned to India with a renewed campaign against the [[Chandel Empire]], this time leading a large army. After advancing through central India and attacking and subduing the Kachhapaghatas of [[Gwalior Fort]], whose king was a haakim of Chandelas, he proceeded towards [[Kalinjar Fort]], the capital of the Chandel Empire, where he began the siege against Vidyadhara Varman.<br />
<br />
== Siege ==<br />
<br />
Mahmud's army surrounded Kalinjar and began a siege of the fortress. The Ghaznavid forces made repeated efforts to overcome the fortifications, but were unable to capture Kalinjar. The fortress's elevated position and strong defensive works made a direct assault difficult.<br />
<br />
After failing to take the fortress by force and being defeated by Vidyadhara Varman again, Mahmud entered into negotiations with Vidyadhara Varman. The siege was brought to an end through a negotiated peace settlement rather than the capture of Kalinjar. Accounts describe an exchange of valuable gifts, including elephants, between the two rulers.<br />
<br />
== Aftermath ==<br />
<br />
Following the negotiations, Mahmud withdrew from Kalinjar and returned towards Ghazni. The [[Chandel Empire]] retained control of Kalinjar, and the fortress was not incorporated into the Ghaznavid Empire.<br />
<br />
The outcome has been interpreted differently in the surviving sources. Persian chroniclers portrayed the expedition as a success for Mahmud, while modern historical interpretations emphasize that he was defeated by Vidyadhara Varman and failed to capture Kalinjar and withdrew after reaching a negotiated settlement with Vidyadhara Varman.</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Siege_of_Kalinjar_(1022)&diff=564955Siege of Kalinjar (1022)2026-09-28T21:53:18Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox military conflict<br />
| conflict = Siege of Kalinjar<br />
| partof = [[Ghaznavid campaigns in India]]<br />
| date = 1022<br />
| place = [[Kalinjar Fort]], [[Jejakabhukti Country]]<br />
| result = Chandela victory; Mahmud negotiated peace and withdrew<br />
| combatant1 = [[Ghaznavid Empire]]<br />
| combatant2 = [[Chandel Empire]]<br />
| commander1 = [[Mahmud of Ghazni]]<br />
| commander2 = [[Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)|Vidyadhara Varman]]<br />
| strength1 = Unknown<br />
| strength2 = Unknown<br />
| casualties1 = Unknown<br />
| casualties2 = Unknown<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Siege of Kalinjar''' was a military conflict fought in 1022 between the [[Ghaznavid Empire]], led by [[Mahmud of Ghazni]], and the [[Chandel Empire]], ruled by [[Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)|Vidyadhara Varman]]. Mahmud's forces invaded the [[Chandel Empire]] and besieged [[Kalinjar Fort]], the military capital of the Chandel Empire. The Ghaznavid army failed to capture the fortress and was defeated. Mahmud subsequently negotiated a peace settlement with Vidyadhara Varman and withdrew.<br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
<br />
In 1019, Mahmud of Ghazni encountered the forces of the Chandela emeperor [[Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor|Vidyadhara Varman]] during his campaign in northern India. The confrontation ended without Mahmud achieving his objective against the [[Chandel Empire]], while Vidyadhara's forces demonstrated the military strength of the Chandel Empire.<br />
<br />
In 1022, Mahmud returned to India with a renewed campaign against the [[Chandel Empire]], this time leading a large army. After advancing through central India and attacking and subduing the Kachhapaghatas of [[Gwalior Fort]], whose king was a haakim of Chandelas, he proceeded towards [[Kalinjar Fort]], the capital of the Chandel Empire, where he began the siege against Vidyadhara Varman.<br />
<br />
== Siege ==<br />
<br />
Mahmud's army surrounded Kalinjar and began a siege of the fortress. The Ghaznavid forces made repeated efforts to overcome the fortifications, but were unable to capture Kalinjar. The fortress's elevated position and strong defensive works made a direct assault difficult.<br />
<br />
After failing to take the fortress by force and being defeated by Vidyadhara Varman again, Mahmud entered into negotiations with Vidyadhara Varman. The siege was brought to an end through a negotiated peace settlement rather than the capture of Kalinjar. Accounts describe an exchange of valuable gifts, including elephants, between the two rulers.<br />
<br />
== Aftermath ==<br />
<br />
Following the negotiations, Mahmud withdrew from Kalinjar and returned towards Ghazni. The [[Chandel Empire]] retained control of Kalinjar, and the fortress was not incorporated into the Ghaznavid Empire.<br />
<br />
The outcome has been interpreted differently in the surviving sources. Persian chroniclers portrayed the expedition as a success for Mahmud, while modern historical interpretations emphasize that he was defeated by Vidyadhara Varman and failed to capture Kalinjar and withdrew after reaching a negotiated settlement with Vidyadhara Varman.</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Siege_of_Kalinjar_(1022)&diff=564954Siege of Kalinjar (1022)2026-09-28T21:53:02Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox military conflict<br />
| conflict = Siege of Kalinjar<br />
| partof = [[Ghaznavid campaigns in India]]<br />
| date = 1022<br />
| place = [[Kalinjar Fort]], [[Jejakabhukti Country]]<br />
| result = Chandela victory; Mahmud negotiated peace and withdrew<br />
| combatant1 = [[Ghaznavid Empire]]<br />
| combatant2 = [[Chandel Empire]]<br />
| commander1 = [[Mahmud of Ghazni]]<br />
| commander2 = [[Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)|Vidyadhara Varman]]<br />
| strength1 = Unknown<br />
| strength2 = Unknown<br />
| casualties1 = Unknown<br />
| casualties2 = Unknown<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Siege of Kalinjar''' was a military conflict fought in 1022 between the [[Ghaznavid Empire]], led by [[Mahmud of Ghazni]], and the [[Chandel Empire]], ruled by [[Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor|Vidyadhara Varman]]. Mahmud's forces invaded the [[Chandel Empire]] and besieged [[Kalinjar Fort]], the military capital of the Chandel Empire. The Ghaznavid army failed to capture the fortress and was defeated. Mahmud subsequently negotiated a peace settlement with Vidyadhara Varman and withdrew. <br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
<br />
In 1019, Mahmud of Ghazni encountered the forces of the Chandela emeperor [[Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor|Vidyadhara Varman]] during his campaign in northern India. The confrontation ended without Mahmud achieving his objective against the [[Chandel Empire]], while Vidyadhara's forces demonstrated the military strength of the Chandel Empire.<br />
<br />
In 1022, Mahmud returned to India with a renewed campaign against the [[Chandel Empire]], this time leading a large army. After advancing through central India and attacking and subduing the Kachhapaghatas of [[Gwalior Fort]], whose king was a haakim of Chandelas, he proceeded towards [[Kalinjar Fort]], the capital of the Chandel Empire, where he began the siege against Vidyadhara Varman.<br />
<br />
== Siege ==<br />
<br />
Mahmud's army surrounded Kalinjar and began a siege of the fortress. The Ghaznavid forces made repeated efforts to overcome the fortifications, but were unable to capture Kalinjar. The fortress's elevated position and strong defensive works made a direct assault difficult.<br />
<br />
After failing to take the fortress by force and being defeated by Vidyadhara Varman again, Mahmud entered into negotiations with Vidyadhara Varman. The siege was brought to an end through a negotiated peace settlement rather than the capture of Kalinjar. Accounts describe an exchange of valuable gifts, including elephants, between the two rulers.<br />
<br />
== Aftermath ==<br />
<br />
Following the negotiations, Mahmud withdrew from Kalinjar and returned towards Ghazni. The [[Chandel Empire]] retained control of Kalinjar, and the fortress was not incorporated into the Ghaznavid Empire.<br />
<br />
The outcome has been interpreted differently in the surviving sources. Persian chroniclers portrayed the expedition as a success for Mahmud, while modern historical interpretations emphasize that he was defeated by Vidyadhara Varman and failed to capture Kalinjar and withdrew after reaching a negotiated settlement with Vidyadhara Varman.</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Siege_of_Kalinjar_(1022)&diff=564953Siege of Kalinjar (1022)2026-09-28T21:47:23Z<p>Vishvaksena: Created page with "{{Infobox military conflict | conflict = Siege of Kalinjar | partof = Ghaznavid campaigns in India | date = 1022 | place = Kalinjar Fort, Jejakabhukti Country | result = Chandela victory; Mahmud negotiated peace and withdrew | combatant1 = Ghaznavid Empire | combatant2 = Chandel Empire | commander1 = Mahmud of Ghazni | commander2 = Vidyadhara Varman | strength1 = Unknown | stre..."</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox military conflict<br />
| conflict = Siege of Kalinjar<br />
| partof = [[Ghaznavid campaigns in India]]<br />
| date = 1022<br />
| place = [[Kalinjar Fort]], [[Jejakabhukti Country]]<br />
| result = Chandela victory; Mahmud negotiated peace and withdrew<br />
| combatant1 = [[Ghaznavid Empire]]<br />
| combatant2 = [[Chandel Empire]]<br />
| commander1 = [[Mahmud of Ghazni]]<br />
| commander2 = [[Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)|Vidyadhara Varman]]<br />
| strength1 = Unknown<br />
| strength2 = Unknown<br />
| casualties1 = Unknown<br />
| casualties2 = Unknown<br />
}}</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Vidyadharavarman_(Chandel_Emperor)&diff=564952Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)2026-09-28T21:45:37Z<p>Vishvaksena: /* Struggle against the Ghaznavids */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Infobox royalty<br />
| name = Vidyādhara varman<br />
| title = Paramabhattaraka, Maharajadhiraja, Parameshvara, Srī-kalanjaradhipati<br />
| succession = Emperor of the [[Chandel Empire]]<br />
| reign = c. 1003–1035<br />
| predecessor = [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandavarman]]<br />
| successor = [[Vijayapala|Vijayapalavarman]]<br />
| consort = Satyabhama Devi <br />
| regnal name = <br />
| full name = Srīmat Vidyadhara Varman Deva<br />
| dynasty = [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
| house = [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]]<br />
| father = Gandavarman<br />
| mother = <br />
| native_lang1 = [[Sanskrit language|Sanskrit]]<br />
| native_lang1_name1 = {{lang|fa|{{nastaliq|श्रीमत-विद्याधर-वर्म-देव }}}}<br />
| religion = [[Shaivism]]<br />
| image = <br />
| image_size = <br />
| alt = <br />
| caption = <br />
<br />
}}<br />
'''Vidyadharavarman''' ([[Nagari]]: विद्याधरवर्मन, [[romanized]]: ''Vidyādhara Varman''), most colloquially known as '''Vidyadhar Chandel''', was a great emperor of [[India]] and the ruler of [[Chandel Empire|Chandel empire (9th-16th c. CE)]], from 1003 CE until his death in 1030 CE. Much of his middle reign was spent conducting a military campaign throughout India, defeating and subjugating Indian kings, as well as [[Bhoja|Paramara Bhoja]] of the [[Paramaras of Malwa|Malwa]] and others. By 1020, he had created one of the largest empires in India, extending Chandel suzerainty across Northern India.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=74-76}}<ref>{{Cite book |last=Majumdar R.c. |url=http://archive.org/details/dli.ernet.527071 |title=The Struggle For Empire |date=1957 |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Bombay}}</ref> He was undefeated in battle and is widely considered to be one of history's greatest and most successful military commanders, having defeated [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] twice, who was one of the most formidable rulers and military commanders of the Islamic world. His efforts successfully prevented the permanent establishment of the Ghaznavid Empire in North India. To celebrate his glorious reign and victories, he constructed the magnificent [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] at [[Khajuraho]], the religious capital of the Chandelas.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=87,96-97}}<br />
<br />
== Ascension ==<br />
Until the 1970s, scholars such as R. K. Dikshit assigned the beginning of Vidyadhara's reign to 1018 CE.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=71-72}} However, later, a copper-plate issued by Vidyadhara's queen Satyabhama was discovered at [[Kundeshwar]]. This inscription is dated 1004 CE, which proves that Vidyadhara was already ruling in 1004 CE. Based on this, scholar S. K. Sullerey dates Vidyadhara's reign as 1003-1035 CE.{{sfn|Sullerey|2004|p=25}}<ref>{{cite book |title=Indian Archaeology: A Review |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=jW1DAAAAYAAJ |year=1975 |publisher=Archaeological Survey of India |page=55 }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Invasion of Kannauj ==<br />
{{See also|Ghaznavid invasion of Kannauj}}<br />
In 1018, the [[Ghaznavid]] king [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] invaded [[Kannauj]], whose [[Gurjara-Pratihara|Pratihara]] king (possibly Rajyapala) fled the city, allowing the Ghaznvids to sack it without facing much resistance. According to the 12th century Muslim historian [[Ali ibn al-Athir]], Bida, the king of [[Khajuraho]] killed the king of Kannauj as a punishment for this cowardice. Bida is believed to be a variant of "Vidya" (that is, Vidyadhara). Some later Muslim historians misread this name as "Nanda", based on which [[British India|British-era]] scholars identified the killer of the Kannauj king as Vidyadhara's predecessor Ganda. However, an inscription discovered at Mahoba confirms that it was Vidyadhara who defeated the ruler of Kannauj.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=72-73}}{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=72}} The Dubkund inscription of Arjuna of [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] family claims that Arjuna killed Rajyapala in a great battle. The Kachchhapaghatas were feudatories of the Chandelas, so it appears that Arjuna was acting as an agent of Vidyadhara.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=74-75}}<br />
<br />
== Struggle against the Ghaznavids ==<br />
{{Main|Siege of Kalinjar (1022)}}<br />
It is possible that Vidyadhara appointed Rajyapala's successor Trilochanapala on the Pratihara throne.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=75}} In 1019, Mahmud launched a fresh invasion of India, and defeated the [[Hindu Shahi|Kabul Shahi]] ruler Trilochanapala (not to be confused with the Pratihara ruler of same name). He then advanced towards Bari, the new Pratihara capital. According to [[Abu Sa'id Gardezi]]'s ''Zayn al-Akhbar'', the Pratihara ruler Trilochanapala fled from the town. After sacking Bari, Mahmud encountered the army of Vidyadhara (variously named "Bida" or "Nanda" in Muslim chronicles).{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=78}}<br />
<br />
According to [[Nizamuddin Ahmad]]'s ''Tabaqat-i-Akbari'', the two armies were encamped on the opposite banks of a river. Mahmud sent an envoy to Vidyadhara (called "Nanda" by Ahmad), asking him to accept [[Islam]] and Mahmud's suzerainty. Vidyadhara refused to make a submission. After seeing the Chandela ruler's vast army from an elevated spot, Mahmud became worried. However, at night, Vidyadhara withdrew with some of his companions, leaving behind his army. According to this account, there was no fight between the two armies. After Vidyadhara's withdrawal, Mahmud's army sacked his camp, and procured a great amount of wealth, including 580 elephants. Gardezi, in his ''Zayn al-Akhbar'', states that the Chandela ruler (called "Ganda" in this account) had already deserted his camp by the time Mahmud's envoy reached there. [[Ali ibn al-Athir]] offers a different account, stating that the two armies fought a battle before retreating at the nightfall. {{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=78-79}}<br />
<br />
In 1022, Mahmud invaded the Chandela kingdom again, besieging the [[Gwalior Fort]] (Gopadri), which was controlled by a [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] feudatory of Vidyadhara. This feudatory is identified with Kirtiraja. According to ''Tabaqat-i-Akbari'' Mahmud lifted the siege after four days, in return for a tribute of 35 elephants. He then proceeded to besiege the Chandela fortress of [[Kalanjara]]. After a long siege, the Kalanjara ruler (called "Nanda" in this account), offered Mahmud a tribute of 300 elephants and "begged for safety". According to [[Firishta]]'s account, the Chandela king intoxicated the elephants and sent them to Mahmud's camp without any riders. These wild elephants were tamed by Mahmud's [[Tatars|Tatar]] soldiers. The Chandela king, on seeing this act of bravery, sent a [[panegyric]] praising Mahmud and his army. In return, Mahmud also complimented the Vidyadhara, and awarded him 15 fortresses and other presents before turning to his capital [[Ghazna]].{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=80-82}}<br />
<br />
S. K. Mitra theorizes that the encounter between Vidyadhara and Mahmud ended with an "exchange of gifts", which must have been depicted as "tribute" by the Muslim historians.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=82}}<br />
<br />
== Triumph over Bhoja Paramara of Malwa ==<br />
An inscription of Kirtiraja, the [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] ruler of Gwalior, claims that he defeated the forces of the [[Malwa]] ruler. At that time, Malwa was ruled by the powerful [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] king [[Bhoja]]. It is unlikely that Kirtiraja could have defeated him alone. Thus, S. K. Mitra theorizes that Kirtiraja must have received help from his overlord Vidyadhara in this campaign. One possibility is that Bhoja invaded the Chandela kingdom, but was forced to retreat by Kirtiraja.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=83-84}} <br />
<br />
The fragmentary [[Mahoba]] inscription of the Chandelas states that Bhoja and Kalachuri-Chandra, like scared pupils, worshipped Vidhyadhara, a master of warfare.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=75}} Kalachuri-Chandra (literally "Moon of the Kalachuris") is identified with the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]]. According to one theory, Bhoja, aided by Gangeya, invaded the Chandela kingdom, but Vidyadhara Varman forced them to retreat. <br />
<br />
[[K. M. Munshi]] believe that the Mahoba inscription is merely a boastful exaggeration.{{sfn|Singh|1984|p=69}} But historians like R.K. Dixit, R.C. Majumdar, Nemai Sadan Bose etc. accepted the fact that the Paramara king [[Bhoja]] and the Kalachuri king [[Gangeyadeva]] both were defeated by Vidyadhar Varman and accepted the Chandela supremacy, while the Kalachuris of Tripuri became the feudals of Chandelas of Jejakabhukti.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=74-76}}<ref>{{Cite book |last=Majumdar R.c. |url=http://archive.org/details/dli.ernet.527071 |title=The Struggle For Empire |date=1957 |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Bombay}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Cultural contributions ==<br />
[[File:A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg|thumb|right|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]], commissioned by Vidyadhara]]<br />
<br />
Vidyadhara commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sullerey|2004|p=26}} Epigraphic inscriptions on a [[pilaster]] of the [[mandapa]] in the temple mentions a king called "Virimda", which is interpreted as another name of Vidhyadhara.{{sfn|Deva|1990|p=370}}<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist|2}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{ref begin}}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Deva |first=Krishna |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4OzVAAAAMAAJ |title=Temples of Khajuraho |volume=1 |year=1990 |publisher=Archaeological Survey of India }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Dikshit |first=R. K. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA25 |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Mitra |first=Sisirkumar |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA27 |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Singh |first=Mahesh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=uPsgAAAAMAAJ |title=Bhoja Paramāra and His Times |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Prakashan |year=1984 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Sullerey |first=Sushil Kumar |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{ref end}}<br />
<br />
{{Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
[[Category:11th-century Indian monarchs]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Vidyadharavarman_(Chandel_Emperor)&diff=564951Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)2026-09-28T21:44:02Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Infobox royalty<br />
| name = Vidyādhara varman<br />
| title = Paramabhattaraka, Maharajadhiraja, Parameshvara, Srī-kalanjaradhipati<br />
| succession = Emperor of the [[Chandel Empire]]<br />
| reign = c. 1003–1035<br />
| predecessor = [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandavarman]]<br />
| successor = [[Vijayapala|Vijayapalavarman]]<br />
| consort = Satyabhama Devi <br />
| regnal name = <br />
| full name = Srīmat Vidyadhara Varman Deva<br />
| dynasty = [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
| house = [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]]<br />
| father = Gandavarman<br />
| mother = <br />
| native_lang1 = [[Sanskrit language|Sanskrit]]<br />
| native_lang1_name1 = {{lang|fa|{{nastaliq|श्रीमत-विद्याधर-वर्म-देव }}}}<br />
| religion = [[Shaivism]]<br />
| image = <br />
| image_size = <br />
| alt = <br />
| caption = <br />
<br />
}}<br />
'''Vidyadharavarman''' ([[Nagari]]: विद्याधरवर्मन, [[romanized]]: ''Vidyādhara Varman''), most colloquially known as '''Vidyadhar Chandel''', was a great emperor of [[India]] and the ruler of [[Chandel Empire|Chandel empire (9th-16th c. CE)]], from 1003 CE until his death in 1030 CE. Much of his middle reign was spent conducting a military campaign throughout India, defeating and subjugating Indian kings, as well as [[Bhoja|Paramara Bhoja]] of the [[Paramaras of Malwa|Malwa]] and others. By 1020, he had created one of the largest empires in India, extending Chandel suzerainty across Northern India.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=74-76}}<ref>{{Cite book |last=Majumdar R.c. |url=http://archive.org/details/dli.ernet.527071 |title=The Struggle For Empire |date=1957 |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Bombay}}</ref> He was undefeated in battle and is widely considered to be one of history's greatest and most successful military commanders, having defeated [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] twice, who was one of the most formidable rulers and military commanders of the Islamic world. His efforts successfully prevented the permanent establishment of the Ghaznavid Empire in North India. To celebrate his glorious reign and victories, he constructed the magnificent [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] at [[Khajuraho]], the religious capital of the Chandelas.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=87,96-97}}<br />
<br />
== Ascension ==<br />
Until the 1970s, scholars such as R. K. Dikshit assigned the beginning of Vidyadhara's reign to 1018 CE.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=71-72}} However, later, a copper-plate issued by Vidyadhara's queen Satyabhama was discovered at [[Kundeshwar]]. This inscription is dated 1004 CE, which proves that Vidyadhara was already ruling in 1004 CE. Based on this, scholar S. K. Sullerey dates Vidyadhara's reign as 1003-1035 CE.{{sfn|Sullerey|2004|p=25}}<ref>{{cite book |title=Indian Archaeology: A Review |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=jW1DAAAAYAAJ |year=1975 |publisher=Archaeological Survey of India |page=55 }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Invasion of Kannauj ==<br />
{{See also|Ghaznavid invasion of Kannauj}}<br />
In 1018, the [[Ghaznavid]] king [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] invaded [[Kannauj]], whose [[Gurjara-Pratihara|Pratihara]] king (possibly Rajyapala) fled the city, allowing the Ghaznvids to sack it without facing much resistance. According to the 12th century Muslim historian [[Ali ibn al-Athir]], Bida, the king of [[Khajuraho]] killed the king of Kannauj as a punishment for this cowardice. Bida is believed to be a variant of "Vidya" (that is, Vidyadhara). Some later Muslim historians misread this name as "Nanda", based on which [[British India|British-era]] scholars identified the killer of the Kannauj king as Vidyadhara's predecessor Ganda. However, an inscription discovered at Mahoba confirms that it was Vidyadhara who defeated the ruler of Kannauj.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=72-73}}{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=72}} The Dubkund inscription of Arjuna of [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] family claims that Arjuna killed Rajyapala in a great battle. The Kachchhapaghatas were feudatories of the Chandelas, so it appears that Arjuna was acting as an agent of Vidyadhara.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=74-75}}<br />
<br />
== Struggle against the Ghaznavids ==<br />
<br />
It is possible that Vidyadhara appointed Rajyapala's successor Trilochanapala on the Pratihara throne.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=75}} In 1019, Mahmud launched a fresh invasion of India, and defeated the [[Hindu Shahi|Kabul Shahi]] ruler Trilochanapala (not to be confused with the Pratihara ruler of same name). He then advanced towards Bari, the new Pratihara capital. According to [[Abu Sa'id Gardezi]]'s ''Zayn al-Akhbar'', the Pratihara ruler Trilochanapala fled from the town. After sacking Bari, Mahmud encountered the army of Vidyadhara (variously named "Bida" or "Nanda" in Muslim chronicles).{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=78}}<br />
<br />
According to [[Nizamuddin Ahmad]]'s ''Tabaqat-i-Akbari'', the two armies were encamped on the opposite banks of a river. Mahmud sent an envoy to Vidyadhara (called "Nanda" by Ahmad), asking him to accept [[Islam]] and Mahmud's suzerainty. Vidyadhara refused to make a submission. After seeing the Chandela ruler's vast army from an elevated spot, Mahmud became worried. However, at night, Vidyadhara withdrew with some of his companions, leaving behind his army. According to this account, there was no fight between the two armies. After Vidyadhara's withdrawal, Mahmud's army sacked his camp, and procured a great amount of wealth, including 580 elephants. Gardezi, in his ''Zayn al-Akhbar'', states that the Chandela ruler (called "Ganda" in this account) had already deserted his camp by the time Mahmud's envoy reached there. [[Ali ibn al-Athir]] offers a different account, stating that the two armies fought a battle before retreating at the nightfall. {{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=78-79}}<br />
<br />
In 1022, Mahmud invaded the Chandela kingdom again, besieging the [[Gwalior Fort]] (Gopadri), which was controlled by a [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] feudatory of Vidyadhara. This feudatory is identified with Kirtiraja. According to ''Tabaqat-i-Akbari'' Mahmud lifted the siege after four days, in return for a tribute of 35 elephants. He then proceeded to besiege the Chandela fortress of [[Kalanjara]]. After a long siege, the Kalanjara ruler (called "Nanda" in this account), offered Mahmud a tribute of 300 elephants and "begged for safety". According to [[Firishta]]'s account, the Chandela king intoxicated the elephants and sent them to Mahmud's camp without any riders. These wild elephants were tamed by Mahmud's [[Tatars|Tatar]] soldiers. The Chandela king, on seeing this act of bravery, sent a [[panegyric]] praising Mahmud and his army. In return, Mahmud also complimented the Vidyadhara, and awarded him 15 fortresses and other presents before turning to his capital [[Ghazna]].{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=80-82}}<br />
<br />
S. K. Mitra theorizes that the encounter between Vidyadhara and Mahmud ended with an "exchange of gifts", which must have been depicted as "tribute" by the Muslim historians.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=82}}<br />
<br />
== Triumph over Bhoja Paramara of Malwa ==<br />
An inscription of Kirtiraja, the [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] ruler of Gwalior, claims that he defeated the forces of the [[Malwa]] ruler. At that time, Malwa was ruled by the powerful [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] king [[Bhoja]]. It is unlikely that Kirtiraja could have defeated him alone. Thus, S. K. Mitra theorizes that Kirtiraja must have received help from his overlord Vidyadhara in this campaign. One possibility is that Bhoja invaded the Chandela kingdom, but was forced to retreat by Kirtiraja.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=83-84}} <br />
<br />
The fragmentary [[Mahoba]] inscription of the Chandelas states that Bhoja and Kalachuri-Chandra, like scared pupils, worshipped Vidhyadhara, a master of warfare.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=75}} Kalachuri-Chandra (literally "Moon of the Kalachuris") is identified with the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]]. According to one theory, Bhoja, aided by Gangeya, invaded the Chandela kingdom, but Vidyadhara Varman forced them to retreat. <br />
<br />
[[K. M. Munshi]] believe that the Mahoba inscription is merely a boastful exaggeration.{{sfn|Singh|1984|p=69}} But historians like R.K. Dixit, R.C. Majumdar, Nemai Sadan Bose etc. accepted the fact that the Paramara king [[Bhoja]] and the Kalachuri king [[Gangeyadeva]] both were defeated by Vidyadhar Varman and accepted the Chandela supremacy, while the Kalachuris of Tripuri became the feudals of Chandelas of Jejakabhukti.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=74-76}}<ref>{{Cite book |last=Majumdar R.c. |url=http://archive.org/details/dli.ernet.527071 |title=The Struggle For Empire |date=1957 |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Bombay}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Cultural contributions ==<br />
[[File:A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg|thumb|right|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]], commissioned by Vidyadhara]]<br />
<br />
Vidyadhara commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sullerey|2004|p=26}} Epigraphic inscriptions on a [[pilaster]] of the [[mandapa]] in the temple mentions a king called "Virimda", which is interpreted as another name of Vidhyadhara.{{sfn|Deva|1990|p=370}}<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist|2}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{ref begin}}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Deva |first=Krishna |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4OzVAAAAMAAJ |title=Temples of Khajuraho |volume=1 |year=1990 |publisher=Archaeological Survey of India }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Dikshit |first=R. K. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA25 |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Mitra |first=Sisirkumar |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA27 |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Singh |first=Mahesh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=uPsgAAAAMAAJ |title=Bhoja Paramāra and His Times |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Prakashan |year=1984 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Sullerey |first=Sushil Kumar |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{ref end}}<br />
<br />
{{Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
[[Category:11th-century Indian monarchs]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Vidyadharavarman_(Chandel_Emperor)&diff=564950Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)2026-09-28T21:43:37Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Infobox royalty<br />
| name = Vidyādhara varman<br />
| title = Paramabhattaraka, Maharajadhiraja, Parameshvara, Srī-kalanjaradhipati<br />
| succession = Emperor of the [[Chandel Empire]]<br />
| reign = c. 1003–1035<br />
| predecessor = [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandavarman]]<br />
| successor = [[Vijayapala|Vijayapalavarman]]<br />
| consort = Satyabhama Devi <br />
| regnal name = <br />
| full name = Srīmat Vidyadhara Varman Deva<br />
| dynasty = [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
| house = [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]]<br />
| father = Gandavarman<br />
| mother = <br />
| native_lang1 = [[Sanskrit language|Sanskrit]]<br />
| native_lang1_name1 = {{lang|fa|{{nastaliq|श्रीमत-विद्याधर-वर्म-देव }}}}<br />
| religion = [[Shaivism]]<br />
| image = <br />
| image_size = <br />
| alt = <br />
| caption = <br />
<br />
}}<br />
'''Vidyadharavarman''' ([[Nagari]]: विद्याधरवर्मन, [[romanized]]: ''Vidyādhara Varman''), most colloquially known as '''Vidyadhar Chandel''', was a great emperor of [[India]] and the ruler of [[Chandel Empire|Chandela empire (9th-16th c. CE)]], from 1003 CE until his death in 1030 CE. Much of his middle reign was spent conducting a military campaign throughout India, defeating and subjugating Indian kings, as well as [[Bhoja|Paramara Bhoja]] of the [[Paramaras of Malwa|Malwa]] and others. By 1020, he had created one of the largest empires in India, extending Chandel suzerainty across Northern India.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=74-76}}<ref>{{Cite book |last=Majumdar R.c. |url=http://archive.org/details/dli.ernet.527071 |title=The Struggle For Empire |date=1957 |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Bombay}}</ref> He was undefeated in battle and is widely considered to be one of history's greatest and most successful military commanders, having defeated [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] twice, who was one of the most formidable rulers and military commanders of the Islamic world. His efforts successfully prevented the permanent establishment of the Ghaznavid Empire in North India. To celebrate his glorious reign and victories, he constructed the magnificent [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] at [[Khajuraho]], the religious capital of the Chandelas.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=87,96-97}}<br />
<br />
== Ascension ==<br />
Until the 1970s, scholars such as R. K. Dikshit assigned the beginning of Vidyadhara's reign to 1018 CE.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=71-72}} However, later, a copper-plate issued by Vidyadhara's queen Satyabhama was discovered at [[Kundeshwar]]. This inscription is dated 1004 CE, which proves that Vidyadhara was already ruling in 1004 CE. Based on this, scholar S. K. Sullerey dates Vidyadhara's reign as 1003-1035 CE.{{sfn|Sullerey|2004|p=25}}<ref>{{cite book |title=Indian Archaeology: A Review |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=jW1DAAAAYAAJ |year=1975 |publisher=Archaeological Survey of India |page=55 }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Invasion of Kannauj ==<br />
{{See also|Ghaznavid invasion of Kannauj}}<br />
In 1018, the [[Ghaznavid]] king [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] invaded [[Kannauj]], whose [[Gurjara-Pratihara|Pratihara]] king (possibly Rajyapala) fled the city, allowing the Ghaznvids to sack it without facing much resistance. According to the 12th century Muslim historian [[Ali ibn al-Athir]], Bida, the king of [[Khajuraho]] killed the king of Kannauj as a punishment for this cowardice. Bida is believed to be a variant of "Vidya" (that is, Vidyadhara). Some later Muslim historians misread this name as "Nanda", based on which [[British India|British-era]] scholars identified the killer of the Kannauj king as Vidyadhara's predecessor Ganda. However, an inscription discovered at Mahoba confirms that it was Vidyadhara who defeated the ruler of Kannauj.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=72-73}}{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=72}} The Dubkund inscription of Arjuna of [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] family claims that Arjuna killed Rajyapala in a great battle. The Kachchhapaghatas were feudatories of the Chandelas, so it appears that Arjuna was acting as an agent of Vidyadhara.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=74-75}}<br />
<br />
== Struggle against the Ghaznavids ==<br />
<br />
It is possible that Vidyadhara appointed Rajyapala's successor Trilochanapala on the Pratihara throne.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=75}} In 1019, Mahmud launched a fresh invasion of India, and defeated the [[Hindu Shahi|Kabul Shahi]] ruler Trilochanapala (not to be confused with the Pratihara ruler of same name). He then advanced towards Bari, the new Pratihara capital. According to [[Abu Sa'id Gardezi]]'s ''Zayn al-Akhbar'', the Pratihara ruler Trilochanapala fled from the town. After sacking Bari, Mahmud encountered the army of Vidyadhara (variously named "Bida" or "Nanda" in Muslim chronicles).{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=78}}<br />
<br />
According to [[Nizamuddin Ahmad]]'s ''Tabaqat-i-Akbari'', the two armies were encamped on the opposite banks of a river. Mahmud sent an envoy to Vidyadhara (called "Nanda" by Ahmad), asking him to accept [[Islam]] and Mahmud's suzerainty. Vidyadhara refused to make a submission. After seeing the Chandela ruler's vast army from an elevated spot, Mahmud became worried. However, at night, Vidyadhara withdrew with some of his companions, leaving behind his army. According to this account, there was no fight between the two armies. After Vidyadhara's withdrawal, Mahmud's army sacked his camp, and procured a great amount of wealth, including 580 elephants. Gardezi, in his ''Zayn al-Akhbar'', states that the Chandela ruler (called "Ganda" in this account) had already deserted his camp by the time Mahmud's envoy reached there. [[Ali ibn al-Athir]] offers a different account, stating that the two armies fought a battle before retreating at the nightfall. {{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=78-79}}<br />
<br />
In 1022, Mahmud invaded the Chandela kingdom again, besieging the [[Gwalior Fort]] (Gopadri), which was controlled by a [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] feudatory of Vidyadhara. This feudatory is identified with Kirtiraja. According to ''Tabaqat-i-Akbari'' Mahmud lifted the siege after four days, in return for a tribute of 35 elephants. He then proceeded to besiege the Chandela fortress of [[Kalanjara]]. After a long siege, the Kalanjara ruler (called "Nanda" in this account), offered Mahmud a tribute of 300 elephants and "begged for safety". According to [[Firishta]]'s account, the Chandela king intoxicated the elephants and sent them to Mahmud's camp without any riders. These wild elephants were tamed by Mahmud's [[Tatars|Tatar]] soldiers. The Chandela king, on seeing this act of bravery, sent a [[panegyric]] praising Mahmud and his army. In return, Mahmud also complimented the Vidyadhara, and awarded him 15 fortresses and other presents before turning to his capital [[Ghazna]].{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=80-82}}<br />
<br />
S. K. Mitra theorizes that the encounter between Vidyadhara and Mahmud ended with an "exchange of gifts", which must have been depicted as "tribute" by the Muslim historians.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=82}}<br />
<br />
== Triumph over Bhoja Paramara of Malwa ==<br />
An inscription of Kirtiraja, the [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] ruler of Gwalior, claims that he defeated the forces of the [[Malwa]] ruler. At that time, Malwa was ruled by the powerful [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] king [[Bhoja]]. It is unlikely that Kirtiraja could have defeated him alone. Thus, S. K. Mitra theorizes that Kirtiraja must have received help from his overlord Vidyadhara in this campaign. One possibility is that Bhoja invaded the Chandela kingdom, but was forced to retreat by Kirtiraja.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=83-84}} <br />
<br />
The fragmentary [[Mahoba]] inscription of the Chandelas states that Bhoja and Kalachuri-Chandra, like scared pupils, worshipped Vidhyadhara, a master of warfare.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=75}} Kalachuri-Chandra (literally "Moon of the Kalachuris") is identified with the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]]. According to one theory, Bhoja, aided by Gangeya, invaded the Chandela kingdom, but Vidyadhara Varman forced them to retreat. <br />
<br />
[[K. M. Munshi]] believe that the Mahoba inscription is merely a boastful exaggeration.{{sfn|Singh|1984|p=69}} But historians like R.K. Dixit, R.C. Majumdar, Nemai Sadan Bose etc. accepted the fact that the Paramara king [[Bhoja]] and the Kalachuri king [[Gangeyadeva]] both were defeated by Vidyadhar Varman and accepted the Chandela supremacy, while the Kalachuris of Tripuri became the feudals of Chandelas of Jejakabhukti.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=74-76}}<ref>{{Cite book |last=Majumdar R.c. |url=http://archive.org/details/dli.ernet.527071 |title=The Struggle For Empire |date=1957 |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Bombay}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Cultural contributions ==<br />
[[File:A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg|thumb|right|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]], commissioned by Vidyadhara]]<br />
<br />
Vidyadhara commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sullerey|2004|p=26}} Epigraphic inscriptions on a [[pilaster]] of the [[mandapa]] in the temple mentions a king called "Virimda", which is interpreted as another name of Vidhyadhara.{{sfn|Deva|1990|p=370}}<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist|2}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{ref begin}}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Deva |first=Krishna |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4OzVAAAAMAAJ |title=Temples of Khajuraho |volume=1 |year=1990 |publisher=Archaeological Survey of India }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Dikshit |first=R. K. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA25 |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Mitra |first=Sisirkumar |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA27 |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Singh |first=Mahesh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=uPsgAAAAMAAJ |title=Bhoja Paramāra and His Times |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Prakashan |year=1984 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Sullerey |first=Sushil Kumar |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{ref end}}<br />
<br />
{{Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
[[Category:11th-century Indian monarchs]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Vidyadharavarman_(Chandel_Emperor)&diff=563220Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)2026-09-22T10:05:47Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Infobox royalty<br />
| name = Vidyādhara varman<br />
| title = Paramabhattaraka, Maharajadhiraja, Parameshvara, Srī-kalanjaradhipati<br />
| succession = Emperor of the [[Chandel Empire]]<br />
| reign = c. 1003–1035<br />
| predecessor = [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandavarman]]<br />
| successor = [[Vijayapala|Vijayapalavarman]]<br />
| consort = Satyabhama Devi <br />
| regnal name = <br />
| full name = Srīmat Vidyadhara Varman Deva<br />
| dynasty = [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
| house = [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]]<br />
| father = Gandavarman<br />
| mother = <br />
| native_lang1 = [[Sanskrit language|Sanskrit]]<br />
| native_lang1_name1 = {{lang|fa|{{nastaliq|श्रीमत-विद्याधर-वर्म-देव }}}}<br />
| religion = [[Shaivism]]<br />
| image = <br />
| image_size = <br />
| alt = <br />
| caption = <br />
<br />
}}<br />
'''Vidyadharavarman''' ([[Nagari]]: विद्याधरवर्मन, [[romanized]]: ''Vidyādhara Varman''), most colloquially known as '''Vidyadhar Chandel''', was a great emperor of [[India]] and the ruler of [[Chandel Empire]] from 1003 CE until his death in 1030 CE. Much of his middle reign was spent conducting a military campaign throughout India, defeating and subjugating Indian kings, as well as [[Bhoja|Paramara Bhoja]] of the [[Paramaras of Malwa|Malwa]] and others. By 1020, he had created one of the largest empires in India, extending Chandel suzerainty across Northern India.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=74-76}}<ref>{{Cite book |last=Majumdar R.c. |url=http://archive.org/details/dli.ernet.527071 |title=The Struggle For Empire |date=1957 |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Bombay}}</ref> He was undefeated in battle and is widely considered to be one of history's greatest and most successful military commanders, having defeated [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] twice, who was one of the most formidable rulers and military commanders of the Islamic world. His efforts successfully prevented the permanent establishment of the Ghaznavid Empire in North India. To celebrate his glorious reign and victories, he constructed the magnificent [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] at [[Khajuraho]], the religious capital of the Chandelas.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=87,96-97}}<br />
<br />
== Ascension ==<br />
Until the 1970s, scholars such as R. K. Dikshit assigned the beginning of Vidyadhara's reign to 1018 CE.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=71-72}} However, later, a copper-plate issued by Vidyadhara's queen Satyabhama was discovered at [[Kundeshwar]]. This inscription is dated 1004 CE, which proves that Vidyadhara was already ruling in 1004 CE. Based on this, scholar S. K. Sullerey dates Vidyadhara's reign as 1003-1035 CE.{{sfn|Sullerey|2004|p=25}}<ref>{{cite book |title=Indian Archaeology: A Review |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=jW1DAAAAYAAJ |year=1975 |publisher=Archaeological Survey of India |page=55 }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Invasion of Kannauj ==<br />
{{See also|Ghaznavid invasion of Kannauj}}<br />
In 1018, the [[Ghaznavid]] king [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] invaded [[Kannauj]], whose [[Gurjara-Pratihara|Pratihara]] king (possibly Rajyapala) fled the city, allowing the Ghaznvids to sack it without facing much resistance. According to the 12th century Muslim historian [[Ali ibn al-Athir]], Bida, the king of [[Khajuraho]] killed the king of Kannauj as a punishment for this cowardice. Bida is believed to be a variant of "Vidya" (that is, Vidyadhara). Some later Muslim historians misread this name as "Nanda", based on which [[British India|British-era]] scholars identified the killer of the Kannauj king as Vidyadhara's predecessor Ganda. However, an inscription discovered at Mahoba confirms that it was Vidyadhara who defeated the ruler of Kannauj.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=72-73}}{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=72}} The Dubkund inscription of Arjuna of [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] family claims that Arjuna killed Rajyapala in a great battle. The Kachchhapaghatas were feudatories of the Chandelas, so it appears that Arjuna was acting as an agent of Vidyadhara.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=74-75}}<br />
<br />
== Struggle against the Ghaznavids ==<br />
<br />
It is possible that Vidyadhara appointed Rajyapala's successor Trilochanapala on the Pratihara throne.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=75}} In 1019, Mahmud launched a fresh invasion of India, and defeated the [[Hindu Shahi|Kabul Shahi]] ruler Trilochanapala (not to be confused with the Pratihara ruler of same name). He then advanced towards Bari, the new Pratihara capital. According to [[Abu Sa'id Gardezi]]'s ''Zayn al-Akhbar'', the Pratihara ruler Trilochanapala fled from the town. After sacking Bari, Mahmud encountered the army of Vidyadhara (variously named "Bida" or "Nanda" in Muslim chronicles).{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=78}}<br />
<br />
According to [[Nizamuddin Ahmad]]'s ''Tabaqat-i-Akbari'', the two armies were encamped on the opposite banks of a river. Mahmud sent an envoy to Vidyadhara (called "Nanda" by Ahmad), asking him to accept [[Islam]] and Mahmud's suzerainty. Vidyadhara refused to make a submission. After seeing the Chandela ruler's vast army from an elevated spot, Mahmud became worried. However, at night, Vidyadhara withdrew with some of his companions, leaving behind his army. According to this account, there was no fight between the two armies. After Vidyadhara's withdrawal, Mahmud's army sacked his camp, and procured a great amount of wealth, including 580 elephants. Gardezi, in his ''Zayn al-Akhbar'', states that the Chandela ruler (called "Ganda" in this account) had already deserted his camp by the time Mahmud's envoy reached there. [[Ali ibn al-Athir]] offers a different account, stating that the two armies fought a battle before retreating at the nightfall. {{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=78-79}}<br />
<br />
In 1022, Mahmud invaded the Chandela kingdom again, besieging the [[Gwalior Fort]] (Gopadri), which was controlled by a [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] feudatory of Vidyadhara. This feudatory is identified with Kirtiraja. According to ''Tabaqat-i-Akbari'' Mahmud lifted the siege after four days, in return for a tribute of 35 elephants. He then proceeded to besiege the Chandela fortress of [[Kalanjara]]. After a long siege, the Kalanjara ruler (called "Nanda" in this account), offered Mahmud a tribute of 300 elephants and "begged for safety". According to [[Firishta]]'s account, the Chandela king intoxicated the elephants and sent them to Mahmud's camp without any riders. These wild elephants were tamed by Mahmud's [[Tatars|Tatar]] soldiers. The Chandela king, on seeing this act of bravery, sent a [[panegyric]] praising Mahmud and his army. In return, Mahmud also complimented the Vidyadhara, and awarded him 15 fortresses and other presents before turning to his capital [[Ghazna]].{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=80-82}}<br />
<br />
S. K. Mitra theorizes that the encounter between Vidyadhara and Mahmud ended with an "exchange of gifts", which must have been depicted as "tribute" by the Muslim historians.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=82}}<br />
<br />
== Triumph over Bhoja Paramara of Malwa ==<br />
An inscription of Kirtiraja, the [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] ruler of Gwalior, claims that he defeated the forces of the [[Malwa]] ruler. At that time, Malwa was ruled by the powerful [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] king [[Bhoja]]. It is unlikely that Kirtiraja could have defeated him alone. Thus, S. K. Mitra theorizes that Kirtiraja must have received help from his overlord Vidyadhara in this campaign. One possibility is that Bhoja invaded the Chandela kingdom, but was forced to retreat by Kirtiraja.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=83-84}} <br />
<br />
The fragmentary [[Mahoba]] inscription of the Chandelas states that Bhoja and Kalachuri-Chandra, like scared pupils, worshipped Vidhyadhara, a master of warfare.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=75}} Kalachuri-Chandra (literally "Moon of the Kalachuris") is identified with the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]]. According to one theory, Bhoja, aided by Gangeya, invaded the Chandela kingdom, but Vidyadhara Varman forced them to retreat. <br />
<br />
[[K. M. Munshi]] believe that the Mahoba inscription is merely a boastful exaggeration.{{sfn|Singh|1984|p=69}} But historians like R.K. Dixit, R.C. Majumdar, Nemai Sadan Bose etc. accepted the fact that the Paramara king [[Bhoja]] and the Kalachuri king [[Gangeyadeva]] both were defeated by Vidyadhar Varman and accepted the Chandela supremacy, while the Kalachuris of Tripuri became the feudals of Chandelas of Jejakabhukti.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=74-76}}<ref>{{Cite book |last=Majumdar R.c. |url=http://archive.org/details/dli.ernet.527071 |title=The Struggle For Empire |date=1957 |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Bombay}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Cultural contributions ==<br />
[[File:A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg|thumb|right|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]], commissioned by Vidyadhara]]<br />
<br />
Vidyadhara commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sullerey|2004|p=26}} Epigraphic inscriptions on a [[pilaster]] of the [[mandapa]] in the temple mentions a king called "Virimda", which is interpreted as another name of Vidhyadhara.{{sfn|Deva|1990|p=370}}<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist|2}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{ref begin}}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Deva |first=Krishna |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4OzVAAAAMAAJ |title=Temples of Khajuraho |volume=1 |year=1990 |publisher=Archaeological Survey of India }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Dikshit |first=R. K. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA25 |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Mitra |first=Sisirkumar |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA27 |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Singh |first=Mahesh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=uPsgAAAAMAAJ |title=Bhoja Paramāra and His Times |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Prakashan |year=1984 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Sullerey |first=Sushil Kumar |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{ref end}}<br />
<br />
{{Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
[[Category:11th-century Indian monarchs]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Vidyadharavarman_(Chandel_Emperor)&diff=563218Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)2026-09-22T10:01:02Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Infobox royalty<br />
| name = Vidyādhara varman<br />
| title = Paramabhattaraka, Maharajadhiraja, Parameshvara, Srī-kalanjaradhipati<br />
| succession = Emperor of the [[Chandel Empire]]<br />
| reign = c. 1003–1035<br />
| predecessor = [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandavarman]]<br />
| successor = [[Vijayapala|Vijayapalavarman]]<br />
| consort = Satyabhama Devi <br />
| regnal name = <br />
| full name = Srīmat Vidyadhara Varman Deva<br />
| dynasty = [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
| house = [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]]<br />
| father = Gandavarman<br />
| mother = <br />
| native_lang1 = [[Sanskrit language|Sanskrit]]<br />
| native_lang1_name1 = {{lang|fa|{{nastaliq|श्रीमत-विद्याधर-वर्म-देव }}}}<br />
| religion = [[Shaivism]]<br />
| image = <br />
| image_size = <br />
| alt = <br />
| caption = <br />
<br />
}}<br />
'''Vidyadharavarman''' ([[Nagari]]: विद्याधरवर्मन, [[romanized]]: ''Vidyādhara Varman''), most colloquially known as '''Vidyadhar Chandel''', was emperor of the [[Chandel Empire]] of India from 1003 CE until his death in 1030 CE. He was the son of [[Gandavarman|Gandavarman]], and ascended to the throne when Ganda died two years after his accession. Vidyadhara Varman's early and later reigns were peaceful, while much of his middle reign was spent conducting a lengthy military campaign throughout India, defeating and subjugating [[Bhoja]] of the [[Paramaras of Malwa]] and others. By 1020, he had created one of the largest empires in India, extending Chandel suzerainty across Northern India.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=74-76}}<ref>{{Cite book |last=Majumdar R.c. |url=http://archive.org/details/dli.ernet.527071 |title=The Struggle For Empire |date=1957 |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Bombay}}</ref> He was undefeated in battle and is widely considered to be one of history's greatest and most successful military commanders, having defeated [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] twice, who was one of the most formidable rulers and military commanders of the Islamic world. His efforts successfully prevented the permanent establishment of the Ghaznavid Empire in North India. To celebrate his glorious reign and victories, he constructed the magnificent [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] at [[Khajuraho]], the religious capital of the Chandelas.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=87,96-97}}<br />
<br />
== Ascension ==<br />
Until the 1970s, scholars such as R. K. Dikshit assigned the beginning of Vidyadhara's reign to 1018 CE.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=71-72}} However, later, a copper-plate issued by Vidyadhara's queen Satyabhama was discovered at [[Kundeshwar]]. This inscription is dated 1004 CE, which proves that Vidyadhara was already ruling in 1004 CE. Based on this, scholar S. K. Sullerey dates Vidyadhara's reign as 1003-1035 CE.{{sfn|Sullerey|2004|p=25}}<ref>{{cite book |title=Indian Archaeology: A Review |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=jW1DAAAAYAAJ |year=1975 |publisher=Archaeological Survey of India |page=55 }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Invasion of Kannauj ==<br />
{{See also|Ghaznavid invasion of Kannauj}}<br />
In 1018, the [[Ghaznavid]] king [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] invaded [[Kannauj]], whose [[Gurjara-Pratihara|Pratihara]] king (possibly Rajyapala) fled the city, allowing the Ghaznvids to sack it without facing much resistance. According to the 12th century Muslim historian [[Ali ibn al-Athir]], Bida, the king of [[Khajuraho]] killed the king of Kannauj as a punishment for this cowardice. Bida is believed to be a variant of "Vidya" (that is, Vidyadhara). Some later Muslim historians misread this name as "Nanda", based on which [[British India|British-era]] scholars identified the killer of the Kannauj king as Vidyadhara's predecessor Ganda. However, an inscription discovered at Mahoba confirms that it was Vidyadhara who defeated the ruler of Kannauj.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=72-73}}{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=72}} The Dubkund inscription of Arjuna of [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] family claims that Arjuna killed Rajyapala in a great battle. The Kachchhapaghatas were feudatories of the Chandelas, so it appears that Arjuna was acting as an agent of Vidyadhara.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=74-75}}<br />
<br />
== Struggle against the Ghaznavids ==<br />
<br />
It is possible that Vidyadhara appointed Rajyapala's successor Trilochanapala on the Pratihara throne.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=75}} In 1019, Mahmud launched a fresh invasion of India, and defeated the [[Hindu Shahi|Kabul Shahi]] ruler Trilochanapala (not to be confused with the Pratihara ruler of same name). He then advanced towards Bari, the new Pratihara capital. According to [[Abu Sa'id Gardezi]]'s ''Zayn al-Akhbar'', the Pratihara ruler Trilochanapala fled from the town. After sacking Bari, Mahmud encountered the army of Vidyadhara (variously named "Bida" or "Nanda" in Muslim chronicles).{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=78}}<br />
<br />
According to [[Nizamuddin Ahmad]]'s ''Tabaqat-i-Akbari'', the two armies were encamped on the opposite banks of a river. Mahmud sent an envoy to Vidyadhara (called "Nanda" by Ahmad), asking him to accept [[Islam]] and Mahmud's suzerainty. Vidyadhara refused to make a submission. After seeing the Chandela ruler's vast army from an elevated spot, Mahmud became worried. However, at night, Vidyadhara withdrew with some of his companions, leaving behind his army. According to this account, there was no fight between the two armies. After Vidyadhara's withdrawal, Mahmud's army sacked his camp, and procured a great amount of wealth, including 580 elephants. Gardezi, in his ''Zayn al-Akhbar'', states that the Chandela ruler (called "Ganda" in this account) had already deserted his camp by the time Mahmud's envoy reached there. [[Ali ibn al-Athir]] offers a different account, stating that the two armies fought a battle before retreating at the nightfall. {{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=78-79}}<br />
<br />
In 1022, Mahmud invaded the Chandela kingdom again, besieging the [[Gwalior Fort]] (Gopadri), which was controlled by a [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] feudatory of Vidyadhara. This feudatory is identified with Kirtiraja. According to ''Tabaqat-i-Akbari'' Mahmud lifted the siege after four days, in return for a tribute of 35 elephants. He then proceeded to besiege the Chandela fortress of [[Kalanjara]]. After a long siege, the Kalanjara ruler (called "Nanda" in this account), offered Mahmud a tribute of 300 elephants and "begged for safety". According to [[Firishta]]'s account, the Chandela king intoxicated the elephants and sent them to Mahmud's camp without any riders. These wild elephants were tamed by Mahmud's [[Tatars|Tatar]] soldiers. The Chandela king, on seeing this act of bravery, sent a [[panegyric]] praising Mahmud and his army. In return, Mahmud also complimented the Vidyadhara, and awarded him 15 fortresses and other presents before turning to his capital [[Ghazna]].{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=80-82}}<br />
<br />
S. K. Mitra theorizes that the encounter between Vidyadhara and Mahmud ended with an "exchange of gifts", which must have been depicted as "tribute" by the Muslim historians.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=82}}<br />
<br />
== Triumph over Bhoja Paramara of Malwa ==<br />
An inscription of Kirtiraja, the [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] ruler of Gwalior, claims that he defeated the forces of the [[Malwa]] ruler. At that time, Malwa was ruled by the powerful [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] king [[Bhoja]]. It is unlikely that Kirtiraja could have defeated him alone. Thus, S. K. Mitra theorizes that Kirtiraja must have received help from his overlord Vidyadhara in this campaign. One possibility is that Bhoja invaded the Chandela kingdom, but was forced to retreat by Kirtiraja.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=83-84}} <br />
<br />
The fragmentary [[Mahoba]] inscription of the Chandelas states that Bhoja and Kalachuri-Chandra, like scared pupils, worshipped Vidhyadhara, a master of warfare.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=75}} Kalachuri-Chandra (literally "Moon of the Kalachuris") is identified with the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]]. According to one theory, Bhoja, aided by Gangeya, invaded the Chandela kingdom, but Vidyadhara Varman forced them to retreat. <br />
<br />
[[K. M. Munshi]] believe that the Mahoba inscription is merely a boastful exaggeration.{{sfn|Singh|1984|p=69}} But historians like R.K. Dixit, R.C. Majumdar, Nemai Sadan Bose etc. accepted the fact that the Paramara king [[Bhoja]] and the Kalachuri king [[Gangeyadeva]] both were defeated by Vidyadhar Varman and accepted the Chandela supremacy, while the Kalachuris of Tripuri became the feudals of Chandelas of Jejakabhukti.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=74-76}}<ref>{{Cite book |last=Majumdar R.c. |url=http://archive.org/details/dli.ernet.527071 |title=The Struggle For Empire |date=1957 |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Bombay}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Cultural contributions ==<br />
[[File:A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg|thumb|right|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]], commissioned by Vidyadhara]]<br />
<br />
Vidyadhara commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sullerey|2004|p=26}} Epigraphic inscriptions on a [[pilaster]] of the [[mandapa]] in the temple mentions a king called "Virimda", which is interpreted as another name of Vidhyadhara.{{sfn|Deva|1990|p=370}}<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist|2}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{ref begin}}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Deva |first=Krishna |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4OzVAAAAMAAJ |title=Temples of Khajuraho |volume=1 |year=1990 |publisher=Archaeological Survey of India }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Dikshit |first=R. K. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA25 |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Mitra |first=Sisirkumar |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA27 |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Singh |first=Mahesh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=uPsgAAAAMAAJ |title=Bhoja Paramāra and His Times |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Prakashan |year=1984 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Sullerey |first=Sushil Kumar |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{ref end}}<br />
<br />
{{Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
[[Category:11th-century Indian monarchs]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Vidyadharavarman_(Chandel_Emperor)&diff=563203Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)2026-09-22T09:16:39Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Infobox royalty<br />
| name = Vidyādhara varman<br />
| title = Paramabhattaraka, Maharajadhiraja, Parameshvara, Srī-kalanjaradhipati<br />
| succession = [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Emperor of Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
| reign = c. 1003–1035<br />
| predecessor = [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandavarman]]<br />
| successor = [[Vijayapala|Vijayapalavarman]]<br />
| consort = Satyabhama Devi <br />
| regnal name = <br />
| full name = Srīmat Vidyadhara Varman Deva<br />
| dynasty = [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
| house = [[Chandelvansha]]<br />
| father = Gandavarman<br />
| mother = <br />
| native_lang1 = [[Sanskrit language|Sanskrit]]<br />
| native_lang1_name1 = {{lang|fa|{{nastaliq|श्रीमत-विद्याधर-वर्म-देव }}}}<br />
| religion = [[Hinduism]]<br />
| image = <br />
| image_size = <br />
| alt = <br />
| caption = <br />
<br />
}}<br />
'''Vidyadharavarman''' (r. c. 1003-1035CE), [[Sanskrit]]: विद्याधरवर्मन, [[IAST]]: ''Vidyādhara Varman''), colloquially known as '''Vidyadhara Chandel''' was the Great Emperor of India. [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Chandel Empire]]. He expanded his Empire by defeating his neighbour Kingdoms, such as [[Paramaras of Malwa]], [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]], [[Gurjara-Pratiharas|Pratiharas of Kannauj]] and others.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=74-76}}<ref>{{Cite book |last=Majumdar R.c. |url=http://archive.org/details/dli.ernet.527071 |title=The Struggle For Empire |date=1957 |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Bombay}}</ref> He is most notable for his resistance against the Sultan [[Mahmud of Ghazni]], successfully preventing the permanent establishment of [[Ghaznavid Empire]] in [[Indian subcontinent]].{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=87,96-97}}<br />
<br />
== Ascension ==<br />
Until the 1970s, scholars such as R. K. Dikshit assigned the beginning of Vidyadhara's reign to 1018 CE.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=71-72}} However, later, a copper-plate issued by Vidyadhara's queen Satyabhama was discovered at [[Kundeshwar]]. This inscription is dated 1004 CE, which proves that Vidyadhara was already ruling in 1004 CE. Based on this, scholar S. K. Sullerey dates Vidyadhara's reign as 1003-1035 CE.{{sfn|Sullerey|2004|p=25}}<ref>{{cite book |title=Indian Archaeology: A Review |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=jW1DAAAAYAAJ |year=1975 |publisher=Archaeological Survey of India |page=55 }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Invasion of Kannauj ==<br />
{{See also|Ghaznavid invasion of Kannauj}}<br />
In 1018, the [[Ghaznavid]] king [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] invaded [[Kannauj]], whose [[Gurjara-Pratihara|Pratihara]] king (possibly Rajyapala) fled the city, allowing the Ghaznvids to sack it without facing much resistance. According to the 12th century Muslim historian [[Ali ibn al-Athir]], Bida, the king of [[Khajuraho]] killed the king of Kannauj as a punishment for this cowardice. Bida is believed to be a variant of "Vidya" (that is, Vidyadhara). Some later Muslim historians misread this name as "Nanda", based on which [[British India|British-era]] scholars identified the killer of the Kannauj king as Vidyadhara's predecessor Ganda. However, an inscription discovered at Mahoba confirms that it was Vidyadhara who defeated the ruler of Kannauj.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=72-73}}{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=72}} The Dubkund inscription of Arjuna of [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] family claims that Arjuna killed Rajyapala in a great battle. The Kachchhapaghatas were feudatories of the Chandelas, so it appears that Arjuna was acting as an agent of Vidyadhara.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=74-75}}<br />
<br />
== Struggle against the Ghaznavids ==<br />
<br />
It is possible that Vidyadhara appointed Rajyapala's successor Trilochanapala on the Pratihara throne.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=75}} In 1019, Mahmud launched a fresh invasion of India, and defeated the [[Hindu Shahi|Kabul Shahi]] ruler Trilochanapala (not to be confused with the Pratihara ruler of same name). He then advanced towards Bari, the new Pratihara capital. According to [[Abu Sa'id Gardezi]]'s ''Zayn al-Akhbar'', the Pratihara ruler Trilochanapala fled from the town. After sacking Bari, Mahmud encountered the army of Vidyadhara (variously named "Bida" or "Nanda" in Muslim chronicles).{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=78}}<br />
<br />
According to [[Nizamuddin Ahmad]]'s ''Tabaqat-i-Akbari'', the two armies were encamped on the opposite banks of a river. Mahmud sent an envoy to Vidyadhara (called "Nanda" by Ahmad), asking him to accept [[Islam]] and Mahmud's suzerainty. Vidyadhara refused to make a submission. After seeing the Chandela ruler's vast army from an elevated spot, Mahmud became worried. However, at night, Vidyadhara withdrew with some of his companions, leaving behind his army. According to this account, there was no fight between the two armies. After Vidyadhara's withdrawal, Mahmud's army sacked his camp, and procured a great amount of wealth, including 580 elephants. Gardezi, in his ''Zayn al-Akhbar'', states that the Chandela ruler (called "Ganda" in this account) had already deserted his camp by the time Mahmud's envoy reached there. [[Ali ibn al-Athir]] offers a different account, stating that the two armies fought a battle before retreating at the nightfall. {{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=78-79}}<br />
<br />
In 1022, Mahmud invaded the Chandela kingdom again, besieging the [[Gwalior Fort]] (Gopadri), which was controlled by a [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] feudatory of Vidyadhara. This feudatory is identified with Kirtiraja. According to ''Tabaqat-i-Akbari'' Mahmud lifted the siege after four days, in return for a tribute of 35 elephants. He then proceeded to besiege the Chandela fortress of [[Kalanjara]]. After a long siege, the Kalanjara ruler (called "Nanda" in this account), offered Mahmud a tribute of 300 elephants and "begged for safety". According to [[Firishta]]'s account, the Chandela king intoxicated the elephants and sent them to Mahmud's camp without any riders. These wild elephants were tamed by Mahmud's [[Tatars|Tatar]] soldiers. The Chandela king, on seeing this act of bravery, sent a [[panegyric]] praising Mahmud and his army. In return, Mahmud also complimented the Vidyadhara, and awarded him 15 fortresses and other presents before turning to his capital [[Ghazna]].{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=80-82}}<br />
<br />
S. K. Mitra theorizes that the encounter between Vidyadhara and Mahmud ended with an "exchange of gifts", which must have been depicted as "tribute" by the Muslim historians.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=82}}<br />
<br />
== Triumph over Bhoja Paramara of Malwa ==<br />
An inscription of Kirtiraja, the [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] ruler of Gwalior, claims that he defeated the forces of the [[Malwa]] ruler. At that time, Malwa was ruled by the powerful [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] king [[Bhoja]]. It is unlikely that Kirtiraja could have defeated him alone. Thus, S. K. Mitra theorizes that Kirtiraja must have received help from his overlord Vidyadhara in this campaign. One possibility is that Bhoja invaded the Chandela kingdom, but was forced to retreat by Kirtiraja.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=83-84}} <br />
<br />
The fragmentary [[Mahoba]] inscription of the Chandelas states that Bhoja and Kalachuri-Chandra, like scared pupils, worshipped Vidhyadhara, a master of warfare.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=75}} Kalachuri-Chandra (literally "Moon of the Kalachuris") is identified with the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]]. According to one theory, Bhoja, aided by Gangeya, invaded the Chandela kingdom, but Vidyadhara Varman forced them to retreat. <br />
<br />
[[K. M. Munshi]] believe that the Mahoba inscription is merely a boastful exaggeration.{{sfn|Singh|1984|p=69}} But historians like R.K. Dixit, R.C. Majumdar, Nemai Sadan Bose etc. accepted the fact that the Paramara king [[Bhoja]] and the Kalachuri king [[Gangeyadeva]] both were defeated by Vidyadhar Varman and accepted the Chandela supremacy, while the Kalachuris of Tripuri became the feudals of Chandelas of Jejakabhukti.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=74-76}}<ref>{{Cite book |last=Majumdar R.c. |url=http://archive.org/details/dli.ernet.527071 |title=The Struggle For Empire |date=1957 |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Bombay}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Cultural contributions ==<br />
[[File:A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg|thumb|right|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]], commissioned by Vidyadhara]]<br />
<br />
Vidyadhara commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sullerey|2004|p=26}} Epigraphic inscriptions on a [[pilaster]] of the [[mandapa]] in the temple mentions a king called "Virimda", which is interpreted as another name of Vidhyadhara.{{sfn|Deva|1990|p=370}}<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist|2}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{ref begin}}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Deva |first=Krishna |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4OzVAAAAMAAJ |title=Temples of Khajuraho |volume=1 |year=1990 |publisher=Archaeological Survey of India }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Dikshit |first=R. K. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA25 |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Mitra |first=Sisirkumar |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA27 |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Singh |first=Mahesh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=uPsgAAAAMAAJ |title=Bhoja Paramāra and His Times |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Prakashan |year=1984 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Sullerey |first=Sushil Kumar |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{ref end}}<br />
<br />
{{Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
[[Category:11th-century Indian monarchs]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Vidyadharavarman_(Chandel_Emperor)&diff=563202Vidyadharavarman (Chandel Emperor)2026-09-22T09:16:26Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Infobox royalty<br />
| name = Vidyādhara varman<br />
| title = Paramabhattaraka, Maharajadhiraja, Parameshvara, Srī-kalanjaradhipati<br />
| succession = [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Emperor of Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
| reign = c. 1003–1035<br />
| predecessor = [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandavarman]]<br />
| successor = [[Vijayapala|Vijayapalavarman]]<br />
| consort = Satyabhama Devi <br />
| regnal name = <br />
| full name = Srīmat Vidyadhara Varman Deva<br />
| dynasty = [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
| house = [[Chandelvansha]]<br />
| father = Gandavarman<br />
| mother = <br />
| native_lang1 = [[Sanskrit language|Sanskrit]]<br />
| native_lang1_name1 = {{lang|fa|{{nastaliq|श्रीमत-विद्याधर-वर्म-देव }}}}<br />
| religion = [[Hinduism]]<br />
| image = <br />
| image_size = <br />
| alt = <br />
| caption = <br />
<br />
}}<br />
'''Vidyadharavarman''' (r. c. 1003-1035CE), [[Sanskrit]]: विद्याधरवर्मन, [[IAST]]: ''Vidyādhara Varman''), colluqiliy Colloquially known as '''Vidyadhara Chandel''' was the Great Emperor of India. [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Chandel Empire]]. He expanded his Empire by defeating his neighbour Kingdoms, such as [[Paramaras of Malwa]], [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]], [[Gurjara-Pratiharas|Pratiharas of Kannauj]] and others.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=74-76}}<ref>{{Cite book |last=Majumdar R.c. |url=http://archive.org/details/dli.ernet.527071 |title=The Struggle For Empire |date=1957 |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Bombay}}</ref> He is most notable for his resistance against the Sultan [[Mahmud of Ghazni]], successfully preventing the permanent establishment of [[Ghaznavid Empire]] in [[Indian subcontinent]].{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=87,96-97}}<br />
<br />
== Ascension ==<br />
Until the 1970s, scholars such as R. K. Dikshit assigned the beginning of Vidyadhara's reign to 1018 CE.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=71-72}} However, later, a copper-plate issued by Vidyadhara's queen Satyabhama was discovered at [[Kundeshwar]]. This inscription is dated 1004 CE, which proves that Vidyadhara was already ruling in 1004 CE. Based on this, scholar S. K. Sullerey dates Vidyadhara's reign as 1003-1035 CE.{{sfn|Sullerey|2004|p=25}}<ref>{{cite book |title=Indian Archaeology: A Review |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=jW1DAAAAYAAJ |year=1975 |publisher=Archaeological Survey of India |page=55 }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Invasion of Kannauj ==<br />
{{See also|Ghaznavid invasion of Kannauj}}<br />
In 1018, the [[Ghaznavid]] king [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] invaded [[Kannauj]], whose [[Gurjara-Pratihara|Pratihara]] king (possibly Rajyapala) fled the city, allowing the Ghaznvids to sack it without facing much resistance. According to the 12th century Muslim historian [[Ali ibn al-Athir]], Bida, the king of [[Khajuraho]] killed the king of Kannauj as a punishment for this cowardice. Bida is believed to be a variant of "Vidya" (that is, Vidyadhara). Some later Muslim historians misread this name as "Nanda", based on which [[British India|British-era]] scholars identified the killer of the Kannauj king as Vidyadhara's predecessor Ganda. However, an inscription discovered at Mahoba confirms that it was Vidyadhara who defeated the ruler of Kannauj.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=72-73}}{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=72}} The Dubkund inscription of Arjuna of [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] family claims that Arjuna killed Rajyapala in a great battle. The Kachchhapaghatas were feudatories of the Chandelas, so it appears that Arjuna was acting as an agent of Vidyadhara.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=74-75}}<br />
<br />
== Struggle against the Ghaznavids ==<br />
<br />
It is possible that Vidyadhara appointed Rajyapala's successor Trilochanapala on the Pratihara throne.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=75}} In 1019, Mahmud launched a fresh invasion of India, and defeated the [[Hindu Shahi|Kabul Shahi]] ruler Trilochanapala (not to be confused with the Pratihara ruler of same name). He then advanced towards Bari, the new Pratihara capital. According to [[Abu Sa'id Gardezi]]'s ''Zayn al-Akhbar'', the Pratihara ruler Trilochanapala fled from the town. After sacking Bari, Mahmud encountered the army of Vidyadhara (variously named "Bida" or "Nanda" in Muslim chronicles).{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=78}}<br />
<br />
According to [[Nizamuddin Ahmad]]'s ''Tabaqat-i-Akbari'', the two armies were encamped on the opposite banks of a river. Mahmud sent an envoy to Vidyadhara (called "Nanda" by Ahmad), asking him to accept [[Islam]] and Mahmud's suzerainty. Vidyadhara refused to make a submission. After seeing the Chandela ruler's vast army from an elevated spot, Mahmud became worried. However, at night, Vidyadhara withdrew with some of his companions, leaving behind his army. According to this account, there was no fight between the two armies. After Vidyadhara's withdrawal, Mahmud's army sacked his camp, and procured a great amount of wealth, including 580 elephants. Gardezi, in his ''Zayn al-Akhbar'', states that the Chandela ruler (called "Ganda" in this account) had already deserted his camp by the time Mahmud's envoy reached there. [[Ali ibn al-Athir]] offers a different account, stating that the two armies fought a battle before retreating at the nightfall. {{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=78-79}}<br />
<br />
In 1022, Mahmud invaded the Chandela kingdom again, besieging the [[Gwalior Fort]] (Gopadri), which was controlled by a [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] feudatory of Vidyadhara. This feudatory is identified with Kirtiraja. According to ''Tabaqat-i-Akbari'' Mahmud lifted the siege after four days, in return for a tribute of 35 elephants. He then proceeded to besiege the Chandela fortress of [[Kalanjara]]. After a long siege, the Kalanjara ruler (called "Nanda" in this account), offered Mahmud a tribute of 300 elephants and "begged for safety". According to [[Firishta]]'s account, the Chandela king intoxicated the elephants and sent them to Mahmud's camp without any riders. These wild elephants were tamed by Mahmud's [[Tatars|Tatar]] soldiers. The Chandela king, on seeing this act of bravery, sent a [[panegyric]] praising Mahmud and his army. In return, Mahmud also complimented the Vidyadhara, and awarded him 15 fortresses and other presents before turning to his capital [[Ghazna]].{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=80-82}}<br />
<br />
S. K. Mitra theorizes that the encounter between Vidyadhara and Mahmud ended with an "exchange of gifts", which must have been depicted as "tribute" by the Muslim historians.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=82}}<br />
<br />
== Triumph over Bhoja Paramara of Malwa ==<br />
An inscription of Kirtiraja, the [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghata]] ruler of Gwalior, claims that he defeated the forces of the [[Malwa]] ruler. At that time, Malwa was ruled by the powerful [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] king [[Bhoja]]. It is unlikely that Kirtiraja could have defeated him alone. Thus, S. K. Mitra theorizes that Kirtiraja must have received help from his overlord Vidyadhara in this campaign. One possibility is that Bhoja invaded the Chandela kingdom, but was forced to retreat by Kirtiraja.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|pp=83-84}} <br />
<br />
The fragmentary [[Mahoba]] inscription of the Chandelas states that Bhoja and Kalachuri-Chandra, like scared pupils, worshipped Vidhyadhara, a master of warfare.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=75}} Kalachuri-Chandra (literally "Moon of the Kalachuris") is identified with the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]]. According to one theory, Bhoja, aided by Gangeya, invaded the Chandela kingdom, but Vidyadhara Varman forced them to retreat. <br />
<br />
[[K. M. Munshi]] believe that the Mahoba inscription is merely a boastful exaggeration.{{sfn|Singh|1984|p=69}} But historians like R.K. Dixit, R.C. Majumdar, Nemai Sadan Bose etc. accepted the fact that the Paramara king [[Bhoja]] and the Kalachuri king [[Gangeyadeva]] both were defeated by Vidyadhar Varman and accepted the Chandela supremacy, while the Kalachuris of Tripuri became the feudals of Chandelas of Jejakabhukti.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=74-76}}<ref>{{Cite book |last=Majumdar R.c. |url=http://archive.org/details/dli.ernet.527071 |title=The Struggle For Empire |date=1957 |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Bombay}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Cultural contributions ==<br />
[[File:A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg|thumb|right|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]], commissioned by Vidyadhara]]<br />
<br />
Vidyadhara commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sullerey|2004|p=26}} Epigraphic inscriptions on a [[pilaster]] of the [[mandapa]] in the temple mentions a king called "Virimda", which is interpreted as another name of Vidhyadhara.{{sfn|Deva|1990|p=370}}<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist|2}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{ref begin}}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Deva |first=Krishna |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4OzVAAAAMAAJ |title=Temples of Khajuraho |volume=1 |year=1990 |publisher=Archaeological Survey of India }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Dikshit |first=R. K. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA25 |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Mitra |first=Sisirkumar |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA27 |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Singh |first=Mahesh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=uPsgAAAAMAAJ |title=Bhoja Paramāra and His Times |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Prakashan |year=1984 }}<br />
* {{cite book |last=Sullerey |first=Sushil Kumar |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{ref end}}<br />
<br />
{{Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
[[Category:11th-century Indian monarchs]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Siege_of_Kalinjar_(1203)&diff=562235Siege of Kalinjar (1203)2026-09-16T12:01:27Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Part of Ghurid invasion of India}}<br />
{{pp-extended|small=yes}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2026}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=July 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox military conflict<br />
| conflict = Siege of Kalinjar<br />
| location = [[Kalinjar Fort|Kalinjar]], [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]] (present day in [[Banda, Uttar Pradesh]], [[India]])<br />
| image = E. view of the Fort at Kalinjar. May 1814.jpg<br />
| caption = Kalinjar Fort in 1814.<br />
| territory = [[Kalinjar Fort|Kalinjar]] annexed to [[Ghurid Empire]]<br />
| result = [[Ghurid Dynasty|Ghurid]] victory<br />
| combatant1 = [[Ghurid Empire]]<br />
| combatant2 = [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Chandel Empire of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
| commander1 = [[Qutb-ud-din Aibak]]<br>[[Iltutmish]]<br />
| strength1 = Unknown<br />
| strength2 = Unknown<br />
| commander2 = [[Paramardivarman]]{{Natural causes}}<br />Ajaya-Deva{{surrendered}}<br />
| date = 12 April 1203<br />
| casualties1 = Unknown<br />
| casualties2 = Unknown<br />
| notes = 50,000 inhabitants citizens were taken prisoners.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Raychaudhuri |first1=Tapan |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=L-s8AAAAIAAJ |title=The Cambridge Economic History of India: Volume 1, C.1200-c.1750 |last2=Habib |first2=Irfan |last3=Kumar |first3=Dharma |date=1982 |publisher=CUP Archive |isbn=978-0-521-22692-9 |pages=90 |language=en}}</ref><br />
| coordinates = {{coord|24.9997|N|80.4852|E|type:landmark|display=inline|name=Kalinjar Fort}}<br />
| pushpin_map = Uttar Pradesh#India<br />
| pushpin_relief = no<br />
| pushpin_map_size = 320<br />
| pushpin_mark_size = 12<br />
| pushpin_mark = Big battle symbol.svg<br />
| pushpin_label = '''Siege of Kalinjar'''<br />
}}<br />
<br />
The '''Siege of Kalinjar''' (1203 CE) was a important military campaign of the [[Ghurid dynasty|Ghurid Empire]] under the leadership of [[Qutb ud-Din Aibak|Qutb al-Din Aibak]] and [[Iltutmish]] against the [[Chandel Empire]]. The Ghurids made large preparation and besieged [[Kalinjar Fort|Kalinjar fort]], capital of the Chandela country with a huge army. The Chandela emperor [[Paramardivarman|Paramardi Varman]] gave stiff resistance but later retreated into the fort. Severe water shortages forced him to begin peace terms with the [[Ghurids]], who agreed to accept tribute and withdraw. But, ruler died before the tribute was delivered. After his death, resistance continued for some time, but as the waters dried up, the general Ajayapala sought a peace treaty and surrendered the fort. As per the treaty, the [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Chandel Imperial family]], elites, [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandela soldiers]] and Chandel clan withdrew safely to [[Ajaigarh]]. Thus, [[Kalinjar Fort|Kalinjar]] was captured on 12 April 1203, along with the seizure of considerable booty, horses, elephants, arms jewels, and 50,000 [[Hindu]] civilians were enslaved.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Srivastava |first=Ashok Kumar |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=DBshAAAAMAAJ |title=The Life and Times of Kutb-ud-din Aibak |date=1972 |publisher=Govind Satish Prakashan |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Kar |first=Hemendra Chandra |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=bsRGAAAAMAAJ |title=Military History of India |date=1980 |publisher=Firma KLM |isbn=978-0-8364-1588-9 |pages=200 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Ojha |first=Dhirendra Nath |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=xINHAAAAMAAJ&q=Iltutmish+Kalinjar+aibak+1202 |title=Aristocracy in Medieval India |date=1993 |publisher=Orient Publications |isbn=978-81-85294-05-6 |pages=19 |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
Kalanjara served as the military capital of the [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]. When Prithviraja III Chauhan was killed after [[Second Battle of Tarain]] against the [[Ghurids]] in 1192 and [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari|Chahamanas]] (Chauhans) and the [[Gahadavala]]s were defeated, the Ghurid governor of Delhi planned to invade the [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Chandel Empire of Jejakabhukti]] and made large-scale preparations.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=147}} A huge force led by [[Qutb al-Din Aibak]], and accompanied by strong generals such as [[Iltutmish]], besieged the Chandela fort of [[Kalanjara]] in 1202.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=126}}<br />
<br />
== Siege ==<br />
''Taj-ul-Maasir'', written by the Delhi chronicler [[Hasan Nizami]], states that [[Paramardivarman]] initially offered stiff resistance, but then retreated into the fort.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=147}} Severe water shortages forced him to begin peace terms with the [[Ghurids]] and promised to pay a tribute, but naturally died before he could execute this agreement. His [[dewan]] Aj Deo (Ajaya-Deva) continued to resist the Ghurids after his death. But dewan was finally forced to surrender Kalinjar fort as the water reservoirs within the fort dried up during a drought. As per the treaty, the [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Chandel Imperial family]], elites, [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandela soldiers]] and Chandel clan withdrew safely to [[Ajaigarh]].{{sfn|Nizami|1992|p=170}} ''Taj-ul-Masir'' further states that after the Ghurid's victory, [[Kalinjar Fort|Kalinjar]] was captured on 12 April 1203, they seized considerable booty, horses, elephants, arms jewels, and 50,000 Hindu male and female civilians were enslaved. Qutb al-Din Aibak appointed Hazabbar-ud-Din Hasan Arnal as the governor of Kalanjara and also captured [[Mahoba]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<br />
<br />
The 16th century historian [[Firishta]] states that Paramardivarman was assassinated by his own minister, who disagreed with the king's decision to surrender to the Delhi forces.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<br />
<br />
Firishta as well as Fakhruddin Mubarakshah state that the fall of Kalanjara happened in the [[Hijri year]] 599 (1202–1203 CE). According to ''Taj-ul-Masir'', Kalanjara fell on 20th of [[Rajab]], in the Hijri year 599, on Monday. However, this date corresponds to 12 April 1203, which was a Friday. Based on different interpretations of the historical sources, different scholars date the fall of Kalanjara to either 1202 or 1203.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=149}}<br />
<br />
== Aftermath ==<br />
The Ghurids could not hold Kalanjara for long. Paramardi’s son, [[Trailokyavarman]], defeated them at Kakadadaha before 1205 and recovered all lost territories including Kalanjara. His inscriptions (1205–1241) show his kingdom covered Lalitpur, Chhatarpur, Panna, Ajaigarh, and Rewa regions. In 1211–1212, he conquered Rewa and much of the Dahala-mandala area from the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuris]]. Later Iltutmish's general Malik Nusrat-ud-din Tayasal invaded Kalanjara and plundered its towns but Trailokyavarman did not lose any territory. He was succeeded by his son [[Viravarman]], whose earliest known date is 1254 AD.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Ramakrishnan|first=S.|url=http://archive.org/details/struggleforempir05bhar|title=History and Culture of the Indian People, Volume 05, The Struggle For Empire|date=2001|publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan|others=Public Resource|pages=59–60}}</ref><br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
== Bibliography ==<br />
{{refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130 |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |author=R. K. Dikshit |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{Cite journal |last=Rezavi |first=Syed Ali Nadeem |date=2002 |title=The Medieval Fort of Kalinjar and Its History |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/44158195 |journal=Proceedings of the Indian History Congress |volume=63 |pages=1233–1259 |issn=2249-1937}}<br />
{{refend}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Battles of the Middle Ages|Ghurids]]<br />
[[Category:13th century in India]]<br />
[[Category:Battles involving the Ghurid dynasty]]<br />
[[Category:Battles involving the Rajputs]]<br />
[[Category:Battles involving Turkic peoples]]<br />
[[Category:1203 in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:1203 conflicts]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Siege_of_Kalinjar_(1203)&diff=562234Siege of Kalinjar (1203)2026-09-16T11:59:27Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Part of Ghurid invasion of India}}<br />
{{pp-extended|small=yes}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2026}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=July 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox military conflict<br />
| conflict = Siege of Kalinjar<br />
| location = [[Kalinjar Fort|Kalinjar]], [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]] (present day in [[Banda, Uttar Pradesh]], [[India]]<br />
| image = E. view of the Fort at Kalinjar. May 1814.jpg<br />
| caption = Kalinjar Fort in 1814.<br />
| territory = [[Kalinjar Fort|Kalinjar]] annexed to [[Ghurid Empire]]<br />
| result = [[Ghurid Dynasty|Ghurid]] victory<br />
| combatant1 = [[Ghurid Empire]]<br />
| combatant2 = [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Chandel Empire of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
| commander1 = [[Qutb-ud-din Aibak]]<br>[[Iltutmish]]<br />
| strength1 = Unknown<br />
| strength2 = Unknown<br />
| commander2 = [[Paramardivarman]]{{Natural causes}}<br />Ajaya-Deva{{surrendered}}<br />
| date = 12 April 1203<br />
| casualties1 = Unknown<br />
| casualties2 = Unknown<br />
| notes = 50,000 inhabitants citizens were taken prisoners.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Raychaudhuri |first1=Tapan |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=L-s8AAAAIAAJ |title=The Cambridge Economic History of India: Volume 1, C.1200-c.1750 |last2=Habib |first2=Irfan |last3=Kumar |first3=Dharma |date=1982 |publisher=CUP Archive |isbn=978-0-521-22692-9 |pages=90 |language=en}}</ref><br />
| coordinates = {{coord|24.9997|N|80.4852|E|type:landmark|display=inline|name=Kalinjar Fort}}<br />
| pushpin_map = Uttar Pradesh#India<br />
| pushpin_relief = no<br />
| pushpin_map_size = 320<br />
| pushpin_mark_size = 12<br />
| pushpin_mark = Big battle symbol.svg<br />
| pushpin_label = '''Siege of Kalinjar'''<br />
}}<br />
<br />
The '''Siege of Kalinjar''' (1203 CE) was a important military campaign of the [[Ghurid dynasty|Ghurid Empire]] under the leadership of [[Qutb ud-Din Aibak|Qutb al-Din Aibak]] and [[Iltutmish]] against the [[Chandel Empire]]. The Ghurids made large preparation and besieged [[Kalinjar Fort|Kalinjar fort]], capital of the Chandela country with a huge army. The Chandela emperor [[Paramardivarman|Paramardi Varman]] gave stiff resistance but later retreated into the fort. Severe water shortages forced him to begin peace terms with the [[Ghurids]], who agreed to accept tribute and withdraw. But, ruler died before the tribute was delivered. After his death, resistance continued for some time, but as the waters dried up, the general Ajayapala sought a peace treaty and surrendered the fort. As per the treaty, the [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Chandel Imperial family]], elites, [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandela soldiers]] and Chandel clan withdrew safely to [[Ajaigarh]]. Thus, [[Kalinjar Fort|Kalinjar]] was captured on 12 April 1203, along with the seizure of considerable booty, horses, elephants, arms jewels, and 50,000 [[Hindu]] civilians were enslaved.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Srivastava |first=Ashok Kumar |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=DBshAAAAMAAJ |title=The Life and Times of Kutb-ud-din Aibak |date=1972 |publisher=Govind Satish Prakashan |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Kar |first=Hemendra Chandra |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=bsRGAAAAMAAJ |title=Military History of India |date=1980 |publisher=Firma KLM |isbn=978-0-8364-1588-9 |pages=200 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Ojha |first=Dhirendra Nath |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=xINHAAAAMAAJ&q=Iltutmish+Kalinjar+aibak+1202 |title=Aristocracy in Medieval India |date=1993 |publisher=Orient Publications |isbn=978-81-85294-05-6 |pages=19 |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
Kalanjara served as the military capital of the [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]. When Prithviraja III Chauhan was killed after [[Second Battle of Tarain]] against the [[Ghurids]] in 1192 and [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari|Chahamanas]] (Chauhans) and the [[Gahadavala]]s were defeated, the Ghurid governor of Delhi planned to invade the [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Chandel Empire of Jejakabhukti]] and made large-scale preparations.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=147}} A huge force led by [[Qutb al-Din Aibak]], and accompanied by strong generals such as [[Iltutmish]], besieged the Chandela fort of [[Kalanjara]] in 1202.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=126}}<br />
<br />
== Siege ==<br />
''Taj-ul-Maasir'', written by the Delhi chronicler [[Hasan Nizami]], states that [[Paramardivarman]] initially offered stiff resistance, but then retreated into the fort.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=147}} Severe water shortages forced him to begin peace terms with the [[Ghurids]] and promised to pay a tribute, but naturally died before he could execute this agreement. His [[dewan]] Aj Deo (Ajaya-Deva) continued to resist the Ghurids after his death. But dewan was finally forced to surrender Kalinjar fort as the water reservoirs within the fort dried up during a drought. As per the treaty, the [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Chandel Imperial family]], elites, [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandela soldiers]] and Chandel clan withdrew safely to [[Ajaigarh]].{{sfn|Nizami|1992|p=170}} ''Taj-ul-Masir'' further states that after the Ghurid's victory, [[Kalinjar Fort|Kalinjar]] was captured on 12 April 1203, they seized considerable booty, horses, elephants, arms jewels, and 50,000 Hindu male and female civilians were enslaved. Qutb al-Din Aibak appointed Hazabbar-ud-Din Hasan Arnal as the governor of Kalanjara and also captured [[Mahoba]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<br />
<br />
The 16th century historian [[Firishta]] states that Paramardivarman was assassinated by his own minister, who disagreed with the king's decision to surrender to the Delhi forces.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<br />
<br />
Firishta as well as Fakhruddin Mubarakshah state that the fall of Kalanjara happened in the [[Hijri year]] 599 (1202–1203 CE). According to ''Taj-ul-Masir'', Kalanjara fell on 20th of [[Rajab]], in the Hijri year 599, on Monday. However, this date corresponds to 12 April 1203, which was a Friday. Based on different interpretations of the historical sources, different scholars date the fall of Kalanjara to either 1202 or 1203.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=149}}<br />
<br />
== Aftermath ==<br />
The Ghurids could not hold Kalanjara for long. Paramardi’s son, [[Trailokyavarman]], defeated them at Kakadadaha before 1205 and recovered all lost territories including Kalanjara. His inscriptions (1205–1241) show his kingdom covered Lalitpur, Chhatarpur, Panna, Ajaigarh, and Rewa regions. In 1211–1212, he conquered Rewa and much of the Dahala-mandala area from the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuris]]. Later Iltutmish's general Malik Nusrat-ud-din Tayasal invaded Kalanjara and plundered its towns but Trailokyavarman did not lose any territory. He was succeeded by his son [[Viravarman]], whose earliest known date is 1254 AD.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Ramakrishnan|first=S.|url=http://archive.org/details/struggleforempir05bhar|title=History and Culture of the Indian People, Volume 05, The Struggle For Empire|date=2001|publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan|others=Public Resource|pages=59–60}}</ref><br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
== Bibliography ==<br />
{{refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130 |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |author=R. K. Dikshit |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{Cite journal |last=Rezavi |first=Syed Ali Nadeem |date=2002 |title=The Medieval Fort of Kalinjar and Its History |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/44158195 |journal=Proceedings of the Indian History Congress |volume=63 |pages=1233–1259 |issn=2249-1937}}<br />
{{refend}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Battles of the Middle Ages|Ghurids]]<br />
[[Category:13th century in India]]<br />
[[Category:Battles involving the Ghurid dynasty]]<br />
[[Category:Battles involving the Rajputs]]<br />
[[Category:Battles involving Turkic peoples]]<br />
[[Category:1203 in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:1203 conflicts]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Siege_of_Kalinjar&diff=562233Siege of Kalinjar2026-09-16T11:58:47Z<p>Vishvaksena: Vishvaksena moved page Siege of Kalinjar to Siege of Kalinjar (1203)</p>
<hr />
<div>#REDIRECT [[Siege of Kalinjar (1203)]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Siege_of_Kalinjar_(1203)&diff=562232Siege of Kalinjar (1203)2026-09-16T11:58:44Z<p>Vishvaksena: Vishvaksena moved page Siege of Kalinjar to Siege of Kalinjar (1203)</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Military conflict}}<br />
{{use Indian English|date=July 2023}}{{Copy edit|July 2023|date=July 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox military conflict<br />
| conflict = Siege of Kalinjar<br />
| place = [[Kalinjar Fort|Kalinjar]]<br />
| image = E. view of the Fort at Kalinjar. May 1814.jpg<br />
| caption = Kalinjar Fort as it appeared in 1814<br />
| territory = Kalinjar annexed to [[Ghurid Dynasty]]<br />
| result = [[Ghurid Dynasty|Ghurid]] victory<br />
| combatant1 = [[Ghurid Dynasty]]<br />
| combatant2 = [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
| commander1 = [[Qutb-ud-din Aibak]]<br>[[Iltutmish]]<br />
| commander2 = [[Paramardi]]{{surrendered}}<br />
}}<br />
The '''Siege of Kalinjar''' was a military expedition of [[Ghurid dynasty|Ghurid Empire]] under the command of [[Qutb ud-Din Aibak|Qutb-ud-din Aibak]] against the [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]] that commenced in 1203 during which the Ghurids successfully captured [[Kalinjar Fort|Kalinjar]] after besieging it.<ref>{{Cite book |last=IAS |first=THIS BOOK IS WRITTEN BY C. M. MISHRA, DIRECTOR OF RUDRA'S |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=CiiqEAAAQBAJ&pg=PA81&dq=Aibak+Kalinjar&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&ovdme=1&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj5i-PT17GAAxVjVmwGHcmIAkUQ6AF6BAgMEAM |title=MPPSC MAINS PAPER 1: History, Culture & Literature of Madhya Pradesh |date=2023-01-29 |publisher=Rudra's IAS |pages=81 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Siddiqi |first=Iqtidar Husain |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=DJbmTL8svpwC&pg=PA185&dq=Aibak+Kalinjar&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&ovdme=1&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj5i-PT17GAAxVjVmwGHcmIAkUQ6AF6BAgHEAM |title=Indo-Persian Historiography Up to the Thirteenth Century |date=2010 |publisher=Primus Books |isbn=978-81-908918-0-6 |pages=185 |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite book |last=provinces |first=North-western |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=j50IAAAAQAAJ&pg=PA451&dq=Aibak+Kalinjar&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&ovdme=1&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj5i-PT17GAAxVjVmwGHcmIAkUQ6AF6BAgJEAM |title=Statistical, descriptive and historical account of the North-western Provinces of India, ed. by E.T. Atkinson [and others]. |date=1874 |publisher=Printed at the North-western Provinces' Government Press |pages=451 |language=en}}</ref> The Ghurid forces defeated Chandelas and the Chandela ruler [[Paramardi]] surrendered Kalinjar to Ghurids.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Farooqui |first=Salma Ahmed |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=sxhAtCflwOMC&pg=PA54&dq=Aibak+Kalinjar&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&ovdme=1&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj5i-PT17GAAxVjVmwGHcmIAkUQ6AF6BAgLEAM |title=A Comprehensive History of Medieval India: Twelfth to the Mid-eighteenth Century |date=2011 |publisher=Pearson Education India |isbn=978-81-317-3202-1 |pages=53 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Srivastava |first=Ashok Kumar |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=DBshAAAAMAAJ&q |title=The Life and Times of Kutb-ud-din Aibak |date=1972 |publisher=Govind Satish Prakashan |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Chaurasia |first=Radhey Shyam |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=8XnaL7zPXPUC&pg=PA4&dq=Aibak+Kalinjar&hl=en&newbks |title=History of Medieval India: From 1000 A.D. to 1707 A.D. |date=2002 |publisher=Atlantic Publishers & Dist |isbn=978-81-269-0123-4 |pages=4 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Srivastava |first=Ashok Kumar |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=DBshAAAAMAAJ&q= |title=The Life and Times of Kutb-ud-din Aibak |date=1972 |publisher=Govind Satish Prakashan |pages=132 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Kar |first=Hemendra Chandra |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=bsRGAAAAMAAJ&q= |title=Military History of India |date=1980 |publisher=Firma KLM |isbn=978-0-8364-1588-9 |pages=200 |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
Kalinjar was the political capital of Chandelas of Jejakabhukti.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Education |first=Pearson |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=ADFpDwAAQBAJ&pg=SA1-PA30&dq= |title=SSC topic-wise Previous Years Solved Papers General Awareness |publisher=Pearson Education India |isbn=978-93-5286-640-3 |pages=131 |language=en}}</ref> It was invaded by [[Prithviraj Chauhan]] of [[Chauhan Dynasty]] in 1183.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Rathore |first=Virendra Singh |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=NvUBEAAAQBAJ&pg=PA48&dq= |title=Prithviraj Chauhan - a Light on the Mist in History |date=2020-09-29 |publisher=Virendra Singh Rathore |isbn=978-1-63640-019-8 |pages=48 |language=en}}</ref> After the death of Prithviraj after [[Second Battle of Tarain|second battle of Tarain]], Chandelas regained their superiority over Kalinjar. Chandela was ruled by Paramardi, the last major King of Chandelas.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Dole |first=Manoj |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=l1ukEAAAQBAJ&pg= |title=Great Kings in The World |publisher=Manoj Dole |pages=58 |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
Qutb-uddin Aibak led his expedition towards Kalinjar in 1202–1203. He defeated Chandela forces and occupied Kalinjar. Paramardi surrendered and promised to pay tribute but died before executing his agreements.<ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=WN6RGQK71RYC&pg=PA157-IA5&dq=Paramardi+surrender&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&ovdme=1&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjNw-nD5LGAAxXGUGwGHemFD9IQ6AF6BAgGEAM |title=Journal |date=1896 |pages=158 |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
<references /><br />
<br />
{{coord missing|India}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Battles by former country|Ghurids]]<br />
[[Category:Battles of the Middle Ages|Ghurids]]<br />
[[Category:Battles involving Iran|Ghurids]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chandel_Empire&diff=562227Chandel Empire2026-09-16T08:57:56Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Late medieval Hindu dynasty of India (800-16th c.)}}<br />
{{pp-extended|small=yes}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=March 2013}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2022}}<br />
{{Infobox country<br />
|conventional_long_name = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
|common_name = Chandela<br />
|era = [[Medieval India]]<br />
|government_type = Monarchy<br />
|year_start = {{Circa|early 9th c.}}<br />
|year_end = 16th c.<br />
|p1 = Kalachuris of Tripuri<br />
| s1 = Mamluk dynasty (Delhi)<br />
| s2 = Mughal Empire <br />
|image_map = Map of the Candellas.png<br />
|image_map_caption = Territory of the Chandelas during the reign of [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] circa 1025 CE.<ref name="JS">{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical Atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=Oxford University Press, Digital South Asia Library|author-link=Joseph E. Schwartzberg |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/cgi-bin/reference/schwartzberg/query.py?display_type=image_display&object=183#gsc.tab=0|page=146, Map "j"}}</ref><br />
|map_width = 300px<br />
|capital = {{ubl|[[Khajuraho]]|[[Kalanjara]]|[[Mahoba]]}}<br />
|common_languages = [[Sanskrit]]<br />
|religion = {{ubl|[[Hinduism]]|[[Jainism]]}}<br />
|today = [[India]]<br />
| image_coat = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti. Sallakshana Varman. Circa 1120-1135 CE.jpg<br />
| coa_size = 280px<br />
| symbol_type = Coinage of [[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (1120–1135 CE), Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
}}<br />
<br />
The '''Chandel Empire''' ([[Sanskrit]]: चन्देल साम्राज्य, [[IAST]]: ''Çandela empire''), also known as '''Chandelas of Jejakabhukti''' was an [[Indian]] empire during the [[medieval India|medieval period]] of the Indian subcontinent which existed from the 9th century to the 16th century CE. At its peak, the dynasty ruled an empire that stretched across more than half of the [[Indian subcontinent]], with its country called [[Jejakabhukti (Chandela country)|Jejakabhukti]]. The ruling dynasty of the empire was founded by the Chandela ruler [[Nannukavarman]], who established [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]] in the early 9th century. The dynasty belonged to the [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]] clan of the [[Rajput|Rajputs]].<ref>*{{Cite book |author=Upinder Singh|author-link=Upinder Singh|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7DRuAAAAMAAJ |title=The Discovery of Ancient India: Early Archaeologists and the Beginnings of Archaeology |date=2004 |publisher=Permanent Black |isbn=978-81-7824-088-6|page=73|quote=Discussion of the histories of various Rajput clans, such as the Chauhans, Kachhvahas, Chandelas, Pratiharas and Tomaras on the basis of a wide range of sources-literary, epigraphic, numismatic, bardic accounts and local traditions|language=en}}<br />
*{{Cite book|last1=Kulke|first1=Hermann|author-link1=Hermann Kulke|last2=Rothermund|first2=Dietmar |author-link2=Dietmar Rothermund|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TPVq3ykHyH4C|title=A History of India|date=2004|publisher=Psychology Press|isbn=978-0-415-32919-4|language=en|page=117|quote="When Gurjara Pratiharas power declined after the sacking of Kannauj by the Rashtrakutas in the early tenth century many Rajput princes declared their independence and founded their own kingdoms, some of which grew to importance in the subsequent two centuries. The better known among those dynasties were the Chaulukyas or Solankis of Gujarat and Kathiawar, the Chahamanas (i.e. Chauhans) of eastern Rajasthan (Ajmer and Jodhpur) and the Tomaras who had founded Delhi (Dhillika) in 736 but had been displaced by the Chauhans in the twelfth century. Rajput descent was also claimed by the Chandelas of Khujuraho and the Kalachuris of Tripuri"}}<br />
*{{Cite book |author=Romila Thapar|author-link=Romila Thapar|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=i6cwDwAAQBAJ |title=Early India: From the Origins to AD 1300 |date=2004|publisher=University of California Press |isbn=978-0-520-24225-8 |page=420|quote=Other claiming to be Rajputs and descended from the solar and lunar lines, established themselves as local kings in various parts of western and central India. Among them were the Chandellas, prominent in the tenth century in Bundelkhand with their centre at Khajuraho and their territory known as Jejakabhukti|language=en}}<br />
*{{harvnb|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=8}}: "The Candellas are undoubtedly a Rajput clan and the epigraphic evidences does not show that any inferiority was applied to them in the past. It reveals their matrimonial relationship with important Rajput families from the very beginning of their history"</ref><br />
<br />
The Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti initially ruled small territories surrounding Khajuraho by overthrowing Pratiharas from there during the reign of its founder Nannukavarman. The 10th century Chandela ruler Harshavarman defeated the Rashtrakuta Empire and restored the Pratihara ruler Mahipala to the throne of Kannauj. Harsha's son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] defeated Pratiharas, palas and other kingdoms and expanded the supremacy of Chandel empire in North India. His successor [[Dhangavarman|Dhangavarman]] expanded the Chandela Empire, and stretched it over more than half of the Indian subcontinent. Vidyadha varman was the greatest From the 9th to the 14th centuries, the Chandelas defeated the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramaras of Malwa]], [[Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty|Gurjara-Pratiharas]], [[Pala Empire|Palas]], [[Kambojas]], [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]], [[Magadha]]s, and [[Kalinga]]s at various times, bringing these kingdoms under feudal, subordinate, vassal, or tributary status during different periods. Many Chandela emperors also performed the [[Ashvamedha]] yajna on multiple occasions, asserting their sovereignty through the conquest and subjugation of Indian kingdoms.<br />
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They also defeated the [[Kashmiris]], [[Khasas]], [[Chaulukya dynasty|Chaulukyas]], [[Chalukya dynasty|Chalukyas]], and [[Rashtrakuta dynasty|Rashtrakutas]] at various times and captured parts of their territories, while conducting raids into [[South India]]. <br />
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From the 11th century onwards, the Chandel Empire faced raids and invasions by the [[Ghaznavid dynasty|Ghaznavids]] and the [[Ghurid dynasty|Ghurids]], followed by those of the [[Delhi Sultanate]] and other Muslim and Hindu dynasties. However, the [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti|Chandelas]] repulsed invasions by the [[Ghaznavid Empire|Ghaznavids]], [[Ghurid dynasty|Ghurids]], the [[Delhi Sultanate]], and other Muslim and Hindu dynasties, while retaining their independence until the 16th century.<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture, most notably for the temples at their original capital [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]]. They also commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at other places, including their strongholds of [[Ajaigarh]], [[Kalinjar]] and their later capital [[Mahoba]].<br />
<br />
== Origin ==<br />
The origin of the Chandelas is obscured by mythical legends. The epigraphic records of the dynasty, as well as contemporary texts such as ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' and ''Prabodha-chandrodaya'', suggest that the Chandelas belonged to the legendary [[Lunar dynasty]] (''Chandravansha'').{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} A 954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription states that the dynasty's first king [[Nannuka]] was a descendant of sage Chandratreya, who was a son of [[Atri]]. A 1002 CE Khajuraho inscription gives a slightly different account, in which Chandratreya is mentioned as a son of Indu (the Moon) and a grandson of Atri.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} The 1195 CE Baghari inscription and the 1260 CE Ajaygadh inscription contain similar accounts.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=5}} The ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' also names [[Atri]] among the ancestors of the Chandelas. Another Khajuraho inscription describes the Chandela king [[Dhanga]] as a member of the [[Vrishni]] clan of the [[Yadavas]] (who also claimed to be part of the Lunar dynasty).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}}<br />
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[[File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638391942).jpg |thumb|left|upright|Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
The ''Mahoba-Khanda'' legend of the dynasty's origin goes like this: Hemaraja, a priest of the [[Gahadavala|Gaharwar]] king of [[Varanasi|Benares]], had a beautiful daughter named Hemavati. Once, while Hemavati was bathing in a pond, the moon god [[Chandra]] saw her and made love to her. Hemavati was worried about the dishonour of being an unwed mother, but Chandra assured her that their son would become a great king. This child was the dynasty's progenitor Chandravarma. Chandra presented him with a [[philosopher's stone]] and taught him politics.<ref name="Asopa1976">{{cite book |author=Jai Narayan Asopa |title=Origin of the Rajputs |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=I_KznQEACAAJ |year=1976 |publisher=Bharatiya Publishing House |page=208}}</ref>{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} The dynasty's own records do not mention Hemavati, Hemaraja or Indrajit. Such legends appear to be later bardic inventions. In general, the ''Mahoba-Khanda'' is a historically unreliable text.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} ''Prithviraj Raso'' is also considered an historically unreliable text.<ref>{{cite book | editor=K Ayyappap Panikkar | title=Medieval Indian literature: an anthology (Volume 1) | author = Vijayendra Snatak | chapter = Medieval Hindi Literature | chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KYLpvaKJIMEC&pg=PA142 |year=1997 | publisher=Sahitya Akademi | isbn=978-81-260-0365-5 | page=142}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Serving empire, serving nation: James Tod and the Rajputs of Rajasthan |first=Jason |last=Freitag |publisher=BRILL |year=2009 |isbn=978-90-04-17594-5 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ib93BhAu43gC |pages=3–5}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=R. V. Somani |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NcIBAAAAMAAJ |title=History of Mewar, from Earliest Times to 1751 A.D. |publisher=Mateshwari |year=1976 |oclc=2929852 |page= 30}}</ref><br />
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[[File:Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh.jpg|thumb|Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh. [[Metropolitan Museum of Art]].]]<br />
British indologist [[Vincent Arthur Smith|V. A. Smith]] theorized that the Chandelas were of either [[Bhar]] or [[Gondi people|Gond]] origin. Some other scholars including [[R. C. Majumdar]] also supported this theory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=6}} The Chandelas worshipped Maniya, a tribal goddess, whose temples are located at Mahoba and Maniyagadh.<ref name="Ali_2008">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iXVNBAAAQBAJ&pg=PA44 |title=World Heritage Monuments and Related Edifices in India |volume=1 |author=Ali Javid and Tabassum Javeed |publisher=Algora |year=2008 |isbn=9780875864822 |page=44 }}</ref> Besides, they have been associated with places that are also associated with Bhars and Gonds. Also, [[Rani Durgavati]], whose family claimed Chandela descent married a Gond chief of [[Mandla|Garha-Mandla]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Historian R. K. Dikshit does not find these arguments convincing: he argues that Maniya was not a tribal deity.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}} Also, the dynasty's association with Gond territory is not necessarily indicative of a common descent: the dynasty's progenitor may have been posted as a governor in these territories.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Finally, Durgavati's marriage to a Gond chief can be dismissed as a one-off case.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}}<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
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=== Early rulers ===<br />
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The Chandelas were originally vassals of the [[Gurjara-Pratiharas]].<ref>Radhey Shyam Chaurasia, History of Ancient India: Earliest Times to 1000 A. D.</ref> [[Nannuka]] (r. {{Circa|831}}–845 CE), the founder of the dynasty, was the ruler of a small kingdom centered around [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]].<ref>{{cite book |author=Sailendra Sen |title=A Textbook of Medieval Indian History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UdW6lAEACAAJ |year=2013 |publisher=Primus |isbn=978-93-80607-34-4 |page=22}}</ref><br />
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According to the Chandela inscriptions, Nannuka's successor [[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] defeated several enemies.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=27-28}} Vakpati's sons [[Jayashakti]] (Jeja) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vija) consolidated the Chandela power.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=30}} According to a [[Mahoba]] inscription, the Chandela territory was named "Jejakabhukti" after the Jayashakti.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=28}} Vijayashakti's successor [[Rahila]] is credited with several military victories in eulogistic inscriptions.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=30–31}} Rahila's son [[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]] played an important role in restoring the rule of the Pratihara king [[Mahipala I|Mahipala]], possibly after a [[Rashtrakuta]] invasion or after Mahiapala's conflict with his step-brother [[Bhoja II (Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty)|Bhoja II]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=32–35}}<br />
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=== Rise as a sovereign power ===<br />
[[File:Kirtivarman Chandela visits the temple of Khajurahu.jpg|thumb|A 20th century artist's imagination of Kirtivarman Chandela visiting a [[Khajuraho]] temple]]<br />
Harsha's son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] (r. c. 925–950 CE) continued to acknowledge the Pratihara suzerainty, but became practically independent.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=36–37}} He conquered the important fortress of [[Kalanjara]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}} A 953–954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription credits him with several other military successes, including against [[Gauḍa (region)|Gaudas]] (identified with the [[Pala Empire|Palas]]), the [[Khasas]], the [[Chedi Kingdom|Chedis]] (the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]), the [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosalas]] (possibly the [[Somavaṃśī dynasty|Somavamshis]]), the [[Mithila (ancient)|Mithila]] (possibly a small tributary ruler), [[Malwa|Malavas]] (identified with the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramaras]]), the [[Kuru Kingdom|Kurus]], the [[Kasmira Kingdom|Kashmiris]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=42-51}} These claims appear to be exaggerated, as similar claims of extensive conquests in northern India are also found in the records of the other contemporary kings such as the Kalachuri king Yuva-Raja and the Rashtrakuta king [[Krishna III]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=42}} Yashovarman's reign marked the beginning of the famous Chandela-era art and architecture. He commissioned the [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}}<br />
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Unlike the earlier Chandela inscriptions, the records of Yashovarman's successor [[Dhanga]] (r. c. 950–999 CE) do not mention any Pratihara overlord. This indicates that Dhanga formally established the Chandela sovereignty.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=57}} A Khajuraho inscription claims that the rulers of [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosala]], Kratha (part of [[Vidarbha]] region), [[Kuntala country|Kuntala]], and [[Sinhala Kingdom|Simhala]] listened humbly to the commands of Dhanga's officers. It also claims that the wives of the kings of [[Andhra Kingdom|Andhra]], [[Anga]], [[Kanchi Kingdom|Kanchi]] and [[Rarh region|Raḍha]] resided in his prisons as a result of his success in wars. These appear to be eulogistic exaggerations by a court poet, but suggest that Dhanga did undertake extensive military campaigns.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=56}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=61–65}} Like his predecessor, Dhanga also commissioned a magnificent temple at Khajuraho, which is identified as the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=69}}<br />
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Dhanga's successor [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda]] appears to have retained the territory he inherited.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72}} His son [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] killed theking of [[Kannauj]] (possibly Rajyapala) for fleeing his capital instead of fighting the [[Ghaznavid]] invader [[Mahmud of Ghazni]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72–73}}{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=72}} Mahmud later invaded Vidyadhara's kingdom; according to the Muslim invaders, this conflict ended with Vidyadhara paying tribute to Mahmud.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=81–82}} Vidyadhara is noted for having commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=26}}<br />
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The Chandela art and architecture reached its zenith during this period. The [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] (c. 930–950 CE), the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]] (c. 999–1002 CE) and the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] (c. 1030 CE) were constructed during the reigns of Yashovarman, Dhanga and Vidyadhara respectively. These [[Nagara architecture|Nagara-style]] temples are representative of the most fully developed style at Khajuraho.<ref name="James_1994">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LwcBVvdqyBkC&pg=PA234 |title=The Art and Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent |author=James C. Harle |publisher=Yale University Press |year=1994 |page=234 |isbn=0300062176 }}</ref><br />
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<gallery mode="packed" caption="Nagara-style temples of Khajuraho"><br />
India-5679 - Flickr - archer10 (Dennis).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]]<br />
File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638423582).jpg|[[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha Temple]]<br />
Vishwanath N-MP-23.jpg | [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]]<br />
A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg | [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
=== Decline ===<br />
[[File:Mahadeva Temple, Khajuraho.jpg|thumb|[[Surasundari]] and [[vyala]], [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
[[File:Le Temple Kandariya Mahadeva (Khajurâho) (8503001895).jpg|thumb|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple|Kandariya Mahadeva temple]] carvings.]]<br />
By the end of Vidyadhara's reign, the [[Ghaznavid]] invasions had weakened the Chandela kingdom. Taking advantage of this, the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]] conquered eastern parts of the kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=89–90}} Chandela inscriptions suggest that Vidyadhara's successor [[Vijayapala]] (r. c. 1035–1050 CE) defeated Gangeya in a battle.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=88}} However, the Chandela power started declining during the Vijayapala's reign.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=101}} The [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghatas]] of [[Gwalior]] probably gave up their allegiance to the Chandelas during this period.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=90}}<br />
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Vijayapala's elder son [[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavavarman]] was subjugated by Gangeya's son [[Lakshmikarna|Lakshmi-Karna]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=91}} His younger brother [[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]] resurrected the Chandela power by defeating Lakshmi-Karna.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=94}} Kirtivarman's son [[Sallakshanavarman]] achieved military successes against the Paramaras and the Kalachuris, possibly by raiding their territories. A [[Mau, Uttar Pradesh|Mau]] inscription suggests that he also conducted successful campaigns in the Antarvedi region (the Ganga-Yamuna [[doab]]).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=120-121}} His son [[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]] was of religious temperament and abdicated the throne after being tired of governance.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=126}}<br />
<br />
Jayavarman appears to have died heirless, as he was succeeded by his uncle [[Prithvivarman]], the younger son of Kirttivarman.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=110–111}} The Chandela inscriptions do not ascribe any military achievements to him; it appears that he was focused on maintaining the existing Chandela territories without adopting an aggressive expansionist policy.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=111}}<br />
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=== Revival ===<br />
<br />
By the time Prithvivarman's son [[Madanavarman]] (r. c. 1128–1165 CE) ascended the throne, the neighbouring [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] and [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] kingdoms had been weakened by enemy invasions. Taking advantage of this situation, Madanavarman defeated the Kalachuri king [[Gayakarna|Gaya-Karna]], and possibly annexed the northern part of the [[Baghelkhand]] region.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132}} However, the Chandelas lost this territory to Gaya-Karna's successor [[Narasimha (Kalachuri dynasty)|Narasimha]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}} Madanavarman also captured the territory on the western periphery of the Paramara kingdom, around [[Bhilsa]] (Vidisha). This probably happened during the reign of the Paramara king [[Yashovarman (Paramara dynasty)|Yashovarman]] or his son [[Jayavarman I (Paramara dynasty)|Jayavarman]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=130–132}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=112-113}} Once again, the Chandelas could not retain the newly annexed territory for long, and the region was recaptured by Yashovarman's son Lakshmivarman.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}}<br />
<br />
[[Jayasimha Siddharaja]], the [[Chaulukya]] king of Gujarat, also invaded the Paramara territory, which was located between the Chandela and the Chaulukya kingdoms. This brought him in conflict with Madanavarman. The result of this conflict appears to have been inconclusive, as records of both the kingdoms claim victory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=133}} A [[Kalanjara]] inscription suggests that Madanavarman defeated Jayasimha. On the other hand, the various chronicles of Gujarat claim that Jayasimha either defeated Madanavarman or extracted a tribute from him.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=133–134}} Madanavarman maintained friendly relations with his northern neighbours, the [[Gahadavala]]s.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132-133}}<br />
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Madanavarman's son [[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]] either did not rule, or ruled for a very short time. Madanavarman's grandson [[Paramardi|Paramardi-deva]] was the last powerful Chandela king.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=130}}<br />
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=== Final decline ===<br />
{{South Asia in 1175||Location of the Chandelas and neighbouring South Asian polities in 1175, on the eve of the [[Ghurid Empire]] invasion of the subcontinent.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=University of Chicago Press |location=Chicago |pages=37, 147|isbn=0226742210 |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/schwartzberg/pager.html?object=074}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Eaton |first1=Richard M. |title=India in the Persianate Age: 1000-1765 |date=25 July 2019 |publisher=Penguin UK |isbn=978-0-14-196655-7 |page=38 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aIF6DwAAQBAJ&pg=PP31 |language=en}}</ref>|{{Annotation|152|90|[[File:Orange dot (semi-transparent).png|35px]]}}}}<br />
[[Paramardi]] (reigned c. 1165-1203 CE) ascended the Chandela throne at a young age. While the early years of his reign were peaceful, around 1182–1183 CE, the [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari|Chahamana]] ruler [[Prithviraj Chauhan]] invaded the Chandela kingdom. According to the medieval legendary ballads, Prithviraj's army lost its way after a surprise attack by ([[Ghurid]]) [[Turkic peoples|Turkic]] forces, and unknowingly camped at the Chandela capital [[Mahoba]]. This led to a brief conflict between the Chandelas and the Chauhans, before Prithviraj left for Delhi. Sometime later, Prithviraj invaded the Chandela kingdom and sacked Mahoba. Paramardi cowardly took shelter in the [[Kalanjara]] fort. The Chandela force, led by [[Alha]], Udal [[banaphar]], rajputs, of Mahoba|Udal]] and other generals, was defeated in this battle. Nowadays [[ahir]], caste claims alha udal but according to historians and alha khand and mahoba khand they belongs to [[banaphar]], clan of [[rajput]], caste and their mother was of [[ahir]], which is why they are called of mixed origin.According to the various ballads, Paramardi either committed suicide out of shame or retired to [[Gaya, India|Gaya]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=120–123}}<br />
<br />
Prithviraj Chauhan's raid of Mahoba is corroborated by his [[Madanpur, Lalitpur, India|Madanpur]] stone inscriptions. However, there are several instances of historical inaccuracies in the bardic legends. For example, it is known that Paramardi did not retire or die immediately after the Chauhan victory. He restored the Chandela power, and ruled as a sovereign until around 1202–1203 CE, when [[Qutb al-Din Aibak]], the [[Ghurid Empire]] governor of [[Delhi]], invaded the Chandela kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=123–126}} According to ''Taj-ul-Maasir'', a chronicle of the [[Delhi Sultanate]], Paramardi surrendered to the Delhi forces. He promised to pay tribute to the Sultan, but died before he could keep this promise. His [[dewan]] offered some resistance to the invading forces, but was ultimately subdued. The 16th century historian [[Firishta]] states that Paramardi was assassinated by his own minister, who disagreed with the king's decision to surrender to the Delhi forces.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<br />
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The Chandela power did not fully recover from their defeat against the Delhi forces. Paramardi was succeeded by [[Trailokyavarman]], [[Viravarman]] and [[Bhojavarman]]. The next ruler [[Hammiravarman]] (r. c. 1288–1311 CE) did not use the imperial title [[Maharajadhiraja]], which indicates that the Chandela king had a lower status by his time. The Chandela power continued to decline because of the rising Muslim influence, as well as the rise of other local dynasties, such as the [[Bundela]]s, the Baghelas and the [[Khangar (community)|Khangars]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=179}}<br />
<br />
Hammiravarman was succeeded by Viravarman II, whose titles do not indicate a high political status.{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}{{sfn|Om Prakash Misra|2003|p=11}} [[Chandelas of Kalanjara (minor Chandela branch)|One minor branch of the family continued ruling Kalanjara]]: its ruler was killed by [[Sher Shah Suri]]'s army in 1545 CE. Another minor branch ruled at [[Mahoba]]: [[Rani Durgavati|Durgavati]], one of its princesses married into the [[Garha Kingdom|Gond]] royal family of [[Mandla]]. Some other ruling families also claimed Chandela descent (see [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]]).{{sfn|Romila Thapar|2013|p=572}}<br />
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== Art and architecture ==<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture. They commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at various places. The most famous example of their cultural achievements are the Hindu and Jain temples at [[Khajuraho]]. Three other important Chandela strongholds were Jayapura-Durga (modern [[Ajaigarh]]), Kalanjara (modern [[Kalinjar]]) and Mahotsava-Nagara (modern [[Mahoba]]).{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela architecture"><br />
Khajuraho Dulhadeo 2010.jpg | Dulhadeo temple, Khajuraho<br />
0B Ajaigarh 4 sides temple.jpg | Ajaigarh temple<br />
Yajna mandap in kulpahar.jpg | A [[yajna]] [[mandapa]] at [[Kulpahar]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
Other smaller Chandela sites include Chandpur, [[Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh|Deogarh]], Dudahi, [[Kakadeo]], Madanpur and [[Aharji Jain Teerth|Aharji]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<ref>{{cite book |last1=Titze |first1=Kurt |last2=Bruhn|first2=Klaus |title=Jainism: A Pictorial Guide to the Religion of Non-Violence |url={{Google books|loQkEIf8z5wC|page=123|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=[[Motilal Banarsidass]] |edition=2 |year=1998 |isbn=978-81-208-1534-6 | page=128 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Reddy |first=P. Chenny | author-link=P. Chenna Reddy |title=Kalyana Mitra: A treasure house of history, culture and archaeological studies | volume=5 |url={{Google books|prCqEAAAQBAJ|page=197|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=Blue Rose Publishers |year=2023 |isbn=978-93-5741-111-0 | page=197 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela sculptures"><br />
Brahma and his consort.jpg | Brahma and his consort, Khajuraho<br />
Ajaygarh Alians ship.jpg | Stone carving, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Neel Swarshwati.jpg | Jain [[tirthankara]]s and [[Sarasvati]], Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh seven heavens of Jain.jpg | Jain heavens, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Shramanas Egyptian style rock cut.jpg | Jain [[shramana]]s, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh treasure sign.jpg | Cattle with treasure sign, Ajaigarh<br />
35. Khajuraho Visvanath apsara.jpg | [[Surasundari]] [[Apsara]], Khajuraho<br />
Khajuraho 126.jpg | Dancing Ganesha, Khajuraho<br />
<br />
Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638393390).jpg | [[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha temple]] carvings<br />
Le Temple de Lakshmana (Khajurâho) (8498182643).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana temple]] carvings<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== List of Rulers==<br />
<br />
Based on epigraphic records, the historians have come up with the following list of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti ([[IAST]] names in brackets):{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=25}}{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=25}}{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+List of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti<br />
! S.N.<br />
! Ruler's regional name ([[IAST]] name in bracket)<br />
! Reign (CE)<br />
|-<br />
|1<br />
|[[Nannuka]]<br />
|831–845<br />
|-<br />
|2<br />
|[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] (Vākpati)<br />
|845–865<br />
|-<br />
|3<br />
|[[Jayashakti]] (Jayaśakti) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vijayaśakti)<br />
|865–885<br />
|-<br />
|4<br />
|[[Rahila]] (Rāhila)<br />
|885–905<br />
|-<br />
|5<br />
|[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Shri Harsha]] (Śri Harśa)<br />
|905–925<br />
|-<br />
|6<br />
|[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman]] (Yaśovarman)<br />
|925–950<br />
|-<br />
|7<br />
|[[Dhangavarman]] <br />
|950–999<br />
|-<br />
|8<br />
|[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda-Deva]] (Gaṇḍadeva)<br />
|999–1002<br />
|-<br />
|9<br />
|[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] (Vidyādhara)<br />
|1003–1035<br />
|-<br />
|10<br />
|[[Vijayapala|Vijaya-Pala]] (Vijayapāla)<br />
|1035–1050<br />
|-<br />
|11<br />
|[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Deva-Varman]]<br />
|1050–1060<br />
|-<br />
|12<br />
|[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirtti-Varman]] (Kīrtivarman)<br />
|1060–1100<br />
|-<br />
|13<br />
|[[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (Sallakṣaṇavarman)<br />
|1100–1110<br />
|-<br />
|14<br />
|[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jaya-Varman]]<br />
|1110–1120<br />
|-<br />
|15<br />
|[[Prithvivarman|Prithvi-Varman]] (Pṛthvīvarman)<br />
|1120–1128<br />
|-<br />
|16<br />
|[[Madanavarman|Madana-Varman]]<br />
|1128–1164<br />
|-<br />
|17<br />
|[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman II]]<br />
|1164–1165<br />
|-<br />
|18<br />
|[[Paramardideva|Paramardi-Deva]]<br />
|1165–1203<br />
|-<br />
|19<br />
|[[Trailokyavarman|Trailokya-Varman]]<br />
|1203–1245<br />
|-<br />
|20<br />
|[[Viravarman|Vira-Varman]] (Vīravarman)<br />
|1245–1285<br />
|-<br />
|21<br />
|[[Bhojavarman|Bhoja-Varman]]<br />
|1285–1288<br />
|-<br />
|22<br />
|[[Hammiravarman|Hammira-Varman]] (Hammīravarman)<br />
|1288–1311<br />
|-<br />
|23<br />
|Vira-Varman II<br />
|1311–1315<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Family tree ==<br />
<br />
{{Chart top|width=100%|collapsed=yes|Chandela dynasty}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart/start|align=center|style=font-size:90%}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Nannuka]]'''<br><sup>(1)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 831-845</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]]'''<br><sup>(2)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 845-865</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(3)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Vijayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(4)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Rahila]]'''<br><sup>(5)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 885-905</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]]'''<br><sup>(6)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 905-925</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman I]]'''<br><sup>(7)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 925-950</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Dhanga]]deva'''<br><sup>(8)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 950-999</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandadeva]]'''<br><sup>(9)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 999-1002</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]]'''<br><sup>(10)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1003-1035</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vijayapala]]'''<br><sup>(11)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1035-1050</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavarman]]'''<br><sup>(12)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1050-1060</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]]'''<br><sup>(13)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1060-1100</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Sallakshanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(14)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1100-1110</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Prithvivarman]]'''<br><sup>(16)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1120-1128</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]]'''<br><sup>(15)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1110-1120</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Madanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(17)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1128-1165</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]]'''<br><sup>(18)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|+|-|-|-|.| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Paramardi]]'''<br><sup>(19)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165-1203</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Viravarman]]'''<br><sup>(21)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1245-1285</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03=Child of<br>Yashovarman}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Trailokyavarman]]'''<br><sup>(20)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1203–1245</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Hammiravarman]]'''<br><sup>(23)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1288-1311</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03='''[[Bhojavarman]]'''<br><sup>(22)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1285-1288</small>|boxstyle_A03=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart/end}}<br />
<br />
{{Chart bottom}}<br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[History of Madhya Pradesh]]<br />
* [[Chandel (Rajput clan)]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kalanjara]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kumaun]]<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Harihar Vitthal Trivedi |title=Inscriptions of the Paramāras (Part 2) |series=Corpus Inscriptionum Indicarum Volume VII: Inscriptions of the Paramāras, Chandēllas, Kachchapaghātas, and two minor dynasties |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8B4LAQAAMAAJ |year=1991 |publisher=[[Archaeological Survey of India]] }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Om Prakash Misra |title=Archaeological Excavations in Central India: Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=o0ISjDDWJwQC&pg=PA11 |year=2003 |publisher=Mittal Publications |isbn=978-81-7099-874-7 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Peter Jackson |author-link=Peter Jackson (historian) |title=The Delhi Sultanate: A Political and Military History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=lt2tqOpVRKgC&pg=PA199 |year=2003 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-0-521-54329-3 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=R. K. Dikshit |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130 |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Romila Thapar |author-link=Romila Thapar |title=The Past Before Us |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aei9AAAAQBAJ&pg=PA571 |year=2013 |publisher=Harvard University Press |isbn=978-0-674-72651-2 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sisirkumar Mitra |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA113 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sushil Kumar Sullerey |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{refend}}<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
* {{commons category-inline|Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti| ]]<br />
[[Category:Medieval Indian dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Hindu dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Bundelkhand]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:9th-century establishments in India]]<br />
[[Category:14th-century disestablishments in India]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chandel_Empire&diff=562221Chandel Empire2026-09-16T08:41:20Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Late medieval Hindu dynasty of India (800-16th c.)}}<br />
{{pp-extended|small=yes}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=March 2013}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2022}}<br />
{{Infobox country<br />
|conventional_long_name = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
|common_name = Chandela<br />
|era = [[Medieval India]]<br />
|government_type = Monarchy<br />
|year_start = {{Circa|early 9th c.}}<br />
|year_end = 16th c.<br />
|p1 = Kalachuris of Tripuri<br />
| s1 = Mamluk dynasty (Delhi)<br />
| s2 = Mughal Empire <br />
|image_map = Map of the Candellas.png<br />
|image_map_caption = Territory of the Chandelas during the reign of [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] circa 1025 CE.<ref name="JS">{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical Atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=Oxford University Press, Digital South Asia Library|author-link=Joseph E. Schwartzberg |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/cgi-bin/reference/schwartzberg/query.py?display_type=image_display&object=183#gsc.tab=0|page=146, Map "j"}}</ref><br />
|map_width = 300px<br />
|capital = {{ubl|[[Khajuraho]]|[[Kalanjara]]|[[Mahoba]]}}<br />
|common_languages = [[Sanskrit]]<br />
|religion = {{ubl|[[Hinduism]]|[[Jainism]]}}<br />
|today = [[India]]<br />
| image_coat = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti. Sallakshana Varman. Circa 1120-1135 CE.jpg<br />
| coa_size = 280px<br />
| symbol_type = Coinage of [[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (1120–1135 CE), Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
}}<br />
<br />
The '''Chandel Empire''' ([[Sanskrit]]: चन्देल साम्राज्य, [[IAST]]: ''Çandela empire''), also known as '''Chandelas of Jejakabhukti''' was an [[Indian]] empire during the [[medieval India|medieval period]] of the Indian subcontinent which existed from the 9th century to the 16th century CE. At its peak, the dynasty ruled an empire that stretched across more than half of the [[Indian subcontinent]], with its country called [[Jejakabhukti (Chandela country)|Jejakabhukti]]. The ruling dynasty of the empire was founded by the Chandela ruler [[Nannukavarman]], who established [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]] in the early 9th century. The dynasty belonged to the [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]] clan of the [[Rajput|Rajputs]].<ref>*{{Cite book |author=Upinder Singh|author-link=Upinder Singh|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7DRuAAAAMAAJ |title=The Discovery of Ancient India: Early Archaeologists and the Beginnings of Archaeology |date=2004 |publisher=Permanent Black |isbn=978-81-7824-088-6|page=73|quote=Discussion of the histories of various Rajput clans, such as the Chauhans, Kachhvahas, Chandelas, Pratiharas and Tomaras on the basis of a wide range of sources-literary, epigraphic, numismatic, bardic accounts and local traditions|language=en}}<br />
*{{Cite book|last1=Kulke|first1=Hermann|author-link1=Hermann Kulke|last2=Rothermund|first2=Dietmar |author-link2=Dietmar Rothermund|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TPVq3ykHyH4C|title=A History of India|date=2004|publisher=Psychology Press|isbn=978-0-415-32919-4|language=en|page=117|quote="When Gurjara Pratiharas power declined after the sacking of Kannauj by the Rashtrakutas in the early tenth century many Rajput princes declared their independence and founded their own kingdoms, some of which grew to importance in the subsequent two centuries. The better known among those dynasties were the Chaulukyas or Solankis of Gujarat and Kathiawar, the Chahamanas (i.e. Chauhans) of eastern Rajasthan (Ajmer and Jodhpur) and the Tomaras who had founded Delhi (Dhillika) in 736 but had been displaced by the Chauhans in the twelfth century. Rajput descent was also claimed by the Chandelas of Khujuraho and the Kalachuris of Tripuri"}}<br />
*{{Cite book |author=Romila Thapar|author-link=Romila Thapar|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=i6cwDwAAQBAJ |title=Early India: From the Origins to AD 1300 |date=2004|publisher=University of California Press |isbn=978-0-520-24225-8 |page=420|quote=Other claiming to be Rajputs and descended from the solar and lunar lines, established themselves as local kings in various parts of western and central India. Among them were the Chandellas, prominent in the tenth century in Bundelkhand with their centre at Khajuraho and their territory known as Jejakabhukti|language=en}}<br />
*{{harvnb|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=8}}: "The Candellas are undoubtedly a Rajput clan and the epigraphic evidences does not show that any inferiority was applied to them in the past. It reveals their matrimonial relationship with important Rajput families from the very beginning of their history"</ref><br />
<br />
The Chandelas initially ruled as feudatories of the [[Gurjara-Pratihara]]s of [[Kanyakubja]] (Kannauj). The 10th century Chandela ruler Harshavarman became the indipendent chandela king, he defeated Rashtrakuta Empire, recrowned pratihara ruler mahipala, while his son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] defeated Pratihara empire. y the time of his successor [[Dhangavarman (Chandel emperor)|Dhanga]], the Chandelas had become a sovereign power. Their power rose and declined as they fought battles with the neighbouring dynasties, especially the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]]s of [[Malwa]] and the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]. <br />
<br />
From the 11th century onwards, the Chandel Empire faced raids and invasions by the [[Ghaznavid dynasty|Ghaznavids]] and the [[Ghurid dynasty|Ghurids]], followed by those of the [[Delhi Sultanate]] and other Muslim and Hindu dynasties. However, the [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti|Chandelas]] repulsed invasions by the [[Ghaznavid Empire|Ghaznavids]], [[Ghurid dynasty|Ghurids]], the [[Delhi Sultanate]], and other Muslim and Hindu dynasties, while retaining their independence until the 16th century.<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture, most notably for the temples at their original capital [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]]. They also commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at other places, including their strongholds of [[Ajaigarh]], [[Kalinjar]] and their later capital [[Mahoba]].<br />
<br />
== Origin ==<br />
The origin of the Chandelas is obscured by mythical legends. The epigraphic records of the dynasty, as well as contemporary texts such as ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' and ''Prabodha-chandrodaya'', suggest that the Chandelas belonged to the legendary [[Lunar dynasty]] (''Chandravansha'').{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} A 954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription states that the dynasty's first king [[Nannuka]] was a descendant of sage Chandratreya, who was a son of [[Atri]]. A 1002 CE Khajuraho inscription gives a slightly different account, in which Chandratreya is mentioned as a son of Indu (the Moon) and a grandson of Atri.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} The 1195 CE Baghari inscription and the 1260 CE Ajaygadh inscription contain similar accounts.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=5}} The ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' also names [[Atri]] among the ancestors of the Chandelas. Another Khajuraho inscription describes the Chandela king [[Dhanga]] as a member of the [[Vrishni]] clan of the [[Yadavas]] (who also claimed to be part of the Lunar dynasty).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}}<br />
<br />
[[File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638391942).jpg |thumb|left|upright|Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
The ''Mahoba-Khanda'' legend of the dynasty's origin goes like this: Hemaraja, a priest of the [[Gahadavala|Gaharwar]] king of [[Varanasi|Benares]], had a beautiful daughter named Hemavati. Once, while Hemavati was bathing in a pond, the moon god [[Chandra]] saw her and made love to her. Hemavati was worried about the dishonour of being an unwed mother, but Chandra assured her that their son would become a great king. This child was the dynasty's progenitor Chandravarma. Chandra presented him with a [[philosopher's stone]] and taught him politics.<ref name="Asopa1976">{{cite book |author=Jai Narayan Asopa |title=Origin of the Rajputs |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=I_KznQEACAAJ |year=1976 |publisher=Bharatiya Publishing House |page=208}}</ref>{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} The dynasty's own records do not mention Hemavati, Hemaraja or Indrajit. Such legends appear to be later bardic inventions. In general, the ''Mahoba-Khanda'' is a historically unreliable text.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} ''Prithviraj Raso'' is also considered an historically unreliable text.<ref>{{cite book | editor=K Ayyappap Panikkar | title=Medieval Indian literature: an anthology (Volume 1) | author = Vijayendra Snatak | chapter = Medieval Hindi Literature | chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KYLpvaKJIMEC&pg=PA142 |year=1997 | publisher=Sahitya Akademi | isbn=978-81-260-0365-5 | page=142}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Serving empire, serving nation: James Tod and the Rajputs of Rajasthan |first=Jason |last=Freitag |publisher=BRILL |year=2009 |isbn=978-90-04-17594-5 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ib93BhAu43gC |pages=3–5}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=R. V. Somani |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NcIBAAAAMAAJ |title=History of Mewar, from Earliest Times to 1751 A.D. |publisher=Mateshwari |year=1976 |oclc=2929852 |page= 30}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[File:Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh.jpg|thumb|Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh. [[Metropolitan Museum of Art]].]]<br />
British indologist [[Vincent Arthur Smith|V. A. Smith]] theorized that the Chandelas were of either [[Bhar]] or [[Gondi people|Gond]] origin. Some other scholars including [[R. C. Majumdar]] also supported this theory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=6}} The Chandelas worshipped Maniya, a tribal goddess, whose temples are located at Mahoba and Maniyagadh.<ref name="Ali_2008">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iXVNBAAAQBAJ&pg=PA44 |title=World Heritage Monuments and Related Edifices in India |volume=1 |author=Ali Javid and Tabassum Javeed |publisher=Algora |year=2008 |isbn=9780875864822 |page=44 }}</ref> Besides, they have been associated with places that are also associated with Bhars and Gonds. Also, [[Rani Durgavati]], whose family claimed Chandela descent married a Gond chief of [[Mandla|Garha-Mandla]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Historian R. K. Dikshit does not find these arguments convincing: he argues that Maniya was not a tribal deity.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}} Also, the dynasty's association with Gond territory is not necessarily indicative of a common descent: the dynasty's progenitor may have been posted as a governor in these territories.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Finally, Durgavati's marriage to a Gond chief can be dismissed as a one-off case.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}}<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
<br />
=== Early rulers ===<br />
<br />
The Chandelas were originally vassals of the [[Gurjara-Pratiharas]].<ref>Radhey Shyam Chaurasia, History of Ancient India: Earliest Times to 1000 A. D.</ref> [[Nannuka]] (r. {{Circa|831}}–845 CE), the founder of the dynasty, was the ruler of a small kingdom centered around [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]].<ref>{{cite book |author=Sailendra Sen |title=A Textbook of Medieval Indian History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UdW6lAEACAAJ |year=2013 |publisher=Primus |isbn=978-93-80607-34-4 |page=22}}</ref><br />
<br />
According to the Chandela inscriptions, Nannuka's successor [[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] defeated several enemies.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=27-28}} Vakpati's sons [[Jayashakti]] (Jeja) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vija) consolidated the Chandela power.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=30}} According to a [[Mahoba]] inscription, the Chandela territory was named "Jejakabhukti" after the Jayashakti.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=28}} Vijayashakti's successor [[Rahila]] is credited with several military victories in eulogistic inscriptions.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=30–31}} Rahila's son [[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]] played an important role in restoring the rule of the Pratihara king [[Mahipala I|Mahipala]], possibly after a [[Rashtrakuta]] invasion or after Mahiapala's conflict with his step-brother [[Bhoja II (Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty)|Bhoja II]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=32–35}}<br />
<br />
=== Rise as a sovereign power ===<br />
[[File:Kirtivarman Chandela visits the temple of Khajurahu.jpg|thumb|A 20th century artist's imagination of Kirtivarman Chandela visiting a [[Khajuraho]] temple]]<br />
Harsha's son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] (r. c. 925–950 CE) continued to acknowledge the Pratihara suzerainty, but became practically independent.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=36–37}} He conquered the important fortress of [[Kalanjara]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}} A 953–954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription credits him with several other military successes, including against [[Gauḍa (region)|Gaudas]] (identified with the [[Pala Empire|Palas]]), the [[Khasas]], the [[Chedi Kingdom|Chedis]] (the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]), the [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosalas]] (possibly the [[Somavaṃśī dynasty|Somavamshis]]), the [[Mithila (ancient)|Mithila]] (possibly a small tributary ruler), [[Malwa|Malavas]] (identified with the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramaras]]), the [[Kuru Kingdom|Kurus]], the [[Kasmira Kingdom|Kashmiris]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=42-51}} These claims appear to be exaggerated, as similar claims of extensive conquests in northern India are also found in the records of the other contemporary kings such as the Kalachuri king Yuva-Raja and the Rashtrakuta king [[Krishna III]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=42}} Yashovarman's reign marked the beginning of the famous Chandela-era art and architecture. He commissioned the [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}}<br />
<br />
Unlike the earlier Chandela inscriptions, the records of Yashovarman's successor [[Dhanga]] (r. c. 950–999 CE) do not mention any Pratihara overlord. This indicates that Dhanga formally established the Chandela sovereignty.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=57}} A Khajuraho inscription claims that the rulers of [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosala]], Kratha (part of [[Vidarbha]] region), [[Kuntala country|Kuntala]], and [[Sinhala Kingdom|Simhala]] listened humbly to the commands of Dhanga's officers. It also claims that the wives of the kings of [[Andhra Kingdom|Andhra]], [[Anga]], [[Kanchi Kingdom|Kanchi]] and [[Rarh region|Raḍha]] resided in his prisons as a result of his success in wars. These appear to be eulogistic exaggerations by a court poet, but suggest that Dhanga did undertake extensive military campaigns.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=56}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=61–65}} Like his predecessor, Dhanga also commissioned a magnificent temple at Khajuraho, which is identified as the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=69}}<br />
<br />
Dhanga's successor [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda]] appears to have retained the territory he inherited.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72}} His son [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] killed theking of [[Kannauj]] (possibly Rajyapala) for fleeing his capital instead of fighting the [[Ghaznavid]] invader [[Mahmud of Ghazni]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72–73}}{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=72}} Mahmud later invaded Vidyadhara's kingdom; according to the Muslim invaders, this conflict ended with Vidyadhara paying tribute to Mahmud.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=81–82}} Vidyadhara is noted for having commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=26}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela art and architecture reached its zenith during this period. The [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] (c. 930–950 CE), the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]] (c. 999–1002 CE) and the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] (c. 1030 CE) were constructed during the reigns of Yashovarman, Dhanga and Vidyadhara respectively. These [[Nagara architecture|Nagara-style]] temples are representative of the most fully developed style at Khajuraho.<ref name="James_1994">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LwcBVvdqyBkC&pg=PA234 |title=The Art and Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent |author=James C. Harle |publisher=Yale University Press |year=1994 |page=234 |isbn=0300062176 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Nagara-style temples of Khajuraho"><br />
India-5679 - Flickr - archer10 (Dennis).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]]<br />
File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638423582).jpg|[[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha Temple]]<br />
Vishwanath N-MP-23.jpg | [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]]<br />
A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg | [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
=== Decline ===<br />
[[File:Mahadeva Temple, Khajuraho.jpg|thumb|[[Surasundari]] and [[vyala]], [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
[[File:Le Temple Kandariya Mahadeva (Khajurâho) (8503001895).jpg|thumb|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple|Kandariya Mahadeva temple]] carvings.]]<br />
By the end of Vidyadhara's reign, the [[Ghaznavid]] invasions had weakened the Chandela kingdom. Taking advantage of this, the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]] conquered eastern parts of the kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=89–90}} Chandela inscriptions suggest that Vidyadhara's successor [[Vijayapala]] (r. c. 1035–1050 CE) defeated Gangeya in a battle.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=88}} However, the Chandela power started declining during the Vijayapala's reign.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=101}} The [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghatas]] of [[Gwalior]] probably gave up their allegiance to the Chandelas during this period.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=90}}<br />
<br />
Vijayapala's elder son [[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavavarman]] was subjugated by Gangeya's son [[Lakshmikarna|Lakshmi-Karna]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=91}} His younger brother [[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]] resurrected the Chandela power by defeating Lakshmi-Karna.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=94}} Kirtivarman's son [[Sallakshanavarman]] achieved military successes against the Paramaras and the Kalachuris, possibly by raiding their territories. A [[Mau, Uttar Pradesh|Mau]] inscription suggests that he also conducted successful campaigns in the Antarvedi region (the Ganga-Yamuna [[doab]]).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=120-121}} His son [[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]] was of religious temperament and abdicated the throne after being tired of governance.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=126}}<br />
<br />
Jayavarman appears to have died heirless, as he was succeeded by his uncle [[Prithvivarman]], the younger son of Kirttivarman.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=110–111}} The Chandela inscriptions do not ascribe any military achievements to him; it appears that he was focused on maintaining the existing Chandela territories without adopting an aggressive expansionist policy.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=111}}<br />
<br />
=== Revival ===<br />
<br />
By the time Prithvivarman's son [[Madanavarman]] (r. c. 1128–1165 CE) ascended the throne, the neighbouring [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] and [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] kingdoms had been weakened by enemy invasions. Taking advantage of this situation, Madanavarman defeated the Kalachuri king [[Gayakarna|Gaya-Karna]], and possibly annexed the northern part of the [[Baghelkhand]] region.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132}} However, the Chandelas lost this territory to Gaya-Karna's successor [[Narasimha (Kalachuri dynasty)|Narasimha]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}} Madanavarman also captured the territory on the western periphery of the Paramara kingdom, around [[Bhilsa]] (Vidisha). This probably happened during the reign of the Paramara king [[Yashovarman (Paramara dynasty)|Yashovarman]] or his son [[Jayavarman I (Paramara dynasty)|Jayavarman]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=130–132}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=112-113}} Once again, the Chandelas could not retain the newly annexed territory for long, and the region was recaptured by Yashovarman's son Lakshmivarman.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}}<br />
<br />
[[Jayasimha Siddharaja]], the [[Chaulukya]] king of Gujarat, also invaded the Paramara territory, which was located between the Chandela and the Chaulukya kingdoms. This brought him in conflict with Madanavarman. The result of this conflict appears to have been inconclusive, as records of both the kingdoms claim victory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=133}} A [[Kalanjara]] inscription suggests that Madanavarman defeated Jayasimha. On the other hand, the various chronicles of Gujarat claim that Jayasimha either defeated Madanavarman or extracted a tribute from him.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=133–134}} Madanavarman maintained friendly relations with his northern neighbours, the [[Gahadavala]]s.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132-133}}<br />
<br />
Madanavarman's son [[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]] either did not rule, or ruled for a very short time. Madanavarman's grandson [[Paramardi|Paramardi-deva]] was the last powerful Chandela king.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=130}}<br />
<br />
=== Final decline ===<br />
{{South Asia in 1175||Location of the Chandelas and neighbouring South Asian polities in 1175, on the eve of the [[Ghurid Empire]] invasion of the subcontinent.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=University of Chicago Press |location=Chicago |pages=37, 147|isbn=0226742210 |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/schwartzberg/pager.html?object=074}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Eaton |first1=Richard M. |title=India in the Persianate Age: 1000-1765 |date=25 July 2019 |publisher=Penguin UK |isbn=978-0-14-196655-7 |page=38 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aIF6DwAAQBAJ&pg=PP31 |language=en}}</ref>|{{Annotation|152|90|[[File:Orange dot (semi-transparent).png|35px]]}}}}<br />
[[Paramardi]] (reigned c. 1165-1203 CE) ascended the Chandela throne at a young age. While the early years of his reign were peaceful, around 1182–1183 CE, the [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari|Chahamana]] ruler [[Prithviraj Chauhan]] invaded the Chandela kingdom. According to the medieval legendary ballads, Prithviraj's army lost its way after a surprise attack by ([[Ghurid]]) [[Turkic peoples|Turkic]] forces, and unknowingly camped at the Chandela capital [[Mahoba]]. This led to a brief conflict between the Chandelas and the Chauhans, before Prithviraj left for Delhi. Sometime later, Prithviraj invaded the Chandela kingdom and sacked Mahoba. Paramardi cowardly took shelter in the [[Kalanjara]] fort. The Chandela force, led by [[Alha]], Udal [[banaphar]], rajputs, of Mahoba|Udal]] and other generals, was defeated in this battle. Nowadays [[ahir]], caste claims alha udal but according to historians and alha khand and mahoba khand they belongs to [[banaphar]], clan of [[rajput]], caste and their mother was of [[ahir]], which is why they are called of mixed origin.According to the various ballads, Paramardi either committed suicide out of shame or retired to [[Gaya, India|Gaya]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=120–123}}<br />
<br />
Prithviraj Chauhan's raid of Mahoba is corroborated by his [[Madanpur, Lalitpur, India|Madanpur]] stone inscriptions. However, there are several instances of historical inaccuracies in the bardic legends. For example, it is known that Paramardi did not retire or die immediately after the Chauhan victory. He restored the Chandela power, and ruled as a sovereign until around 1202–1203 CE, when [[Qutb al-Din Aibak]], the [[Ghurid Empire]] governor of [[Delhi]], invaded the Chandela kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=123–126}} According to ''Taj-ul-Maasir'', a chronicle of the [[Delhi Sultanate]], Paramardi surrendered to the Delhi forces. He promised to pay tribute to the Sultan, but died before he could keep this promise. His [[dewan]] offered some resistance to the invading forces, but was ultimately subdued. The 16th century historian [[Firishta]] states that Paramardi was assassinated by his own minister, who disagreed with the king's decision to surrender to the Delhi forces.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela power did not fully recover from their defeat against the Delhi forces. Paramardi was succeeded by [[Trailokyavarman]], [[Viravarman]] and [[Bhojavarman]]. The next ruler [[Hammiravarman]] (r. c. 1288–1311 CE) did not use the imperial title [[Maharajadhiraja]], which indicates that the Chandela king had a lower status by his time. The Chandela power continued to decline because of the rising Muslim influence, as well as the rise of other local dynasties, such as the [[Bundela]]s, the Baghelas and the [[Khangar (community)|Khangars]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=179}}<br />
<br />
Hammiravarman was succeeded by Viravarman II, whose titles do not indicate a high political status.{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}{{sfn|Om Prakash Misra|2003|p=11}} [[Chandelas of Kalanjara (minor Chandela branch)|One minor branch of the family continued ruling Kalanjara]]: its ruler was killed by [[Sher Shah Suri]]'s army in 1545 CE. Another minor branch ruled at [[Mahoba]]: [[Rani Durgavati|Durgavati]], one of its princesses married into the [[Garha Kingdom|Gond]] royal family of [[Mandla]]. Some other ruling families also claimed Chandela descent (see [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]]).{{sfn|Romila Thapar|2013|p=572}}<br />
<br />
== Art and architecture ==<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture. They commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at various places. The most famous example of their cultural achievements are the Hindu and Jain temples at [[Khajuraho]]. Three other important Chandela strongholds were Jayapura-Durga (modern [[Ajaigarh]]), Kalanjara (modern [[Kalinjar]]) and Mahotsava-Nagara (modern [[Mahoba]]).{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela architecture"><br />
Khajuraho Dulhadeo 2010.jpg | Dulhadeo temple, Khajuraho<br />
0B Ajaigarh 4 sides temple.jpg | Ajaigarh temple<br />
Yajna mandap in kulpahar.jpg | A [[yajna]] [[mandapa]] at [[Kulpahar]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
Other smaller Chandela sites include Chandpur, [[Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh|Deogarh]], Dudahi, [[Kakadeo]], Madanpur and [[Aharji Jain Teerth|Aharji]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<ref>{{cite book |last1=Titze |first1=Kurt |last2=Bruhn|first2=Klaus |title=Jainism: A Pictorial Guide to the Religion of Non-Violence |url={{Google books|loQkEIf8z5wC|page=123|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=[[Motilal Banarsidass]] |edition=2 |year=1998 |isbn=978-81-208-1534-6 | page=128 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Reddy |first=P. Chenny | author-link=P. Chenna Reddy |title=Kalyana Mitra: A treasure house of history, culture and archaeological studies | volume=5 |url={{Google books|prCqEAAAQBAJ|page=197|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=Blue Rose Publishers |year=2023 |isbn=978-93-5741-111-0 | page=197 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela sculptures"><br />
Brahma and his consort.jpg | Brahma and his consort, Khajuraho<br />
Ajaygarh Alians ship.jpg | Stone carving, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Neel Swarshwati.jpg | Jain [[tirthankara]]s and [[Sarasvati]], Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh seven heavens of Jain.jpg | Jain heavens, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Shramanas Egyptian style rock cut.jpg | Jain [[shramana]]s, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh treasure sign.jpg | Cattle with treasure sign, Ajaigarh<br />
35. Khajuraho Visvanath apsara.jpg | [[Surasundari]] [[Apsara]], Khajuraho<br />
Khajuraho 126.jpg | Dancing Ganesha, Khajuraho<br />
<br />
Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638393390).jpg | [[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha temple]] carvings<br />
Le Temple de Lakshmana (Khajurâho) (8498182643).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana temple]] carvings<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== List of Rulers==<br />
<br />
Based on epigraphic records, the historians have come up with the following list of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti ([[IAST]] names in brackets):{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=25}}{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=25}}{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+List of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti<br />
! S.N.<br />
! Ruler's regional name ([[IAST]] name in bracket)<br />
! Reign (CE)<br />
|-<br />
|1<br />
|[[Nannuka]]<br />
|831–845<br />
|-<br />
|2<br />
|[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] (Vākpati)<br />
|845–865<br />
|-<br />
|3<br />
|[[Jayashakti]] (Jayaśakti) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vijayaśakti)<br />
|865–885<br />
|-<br />
|4<br />
|[[Rahila]] (Rāhila)<br />
|885–905<br />
|-<br />
|5<br />
|[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Shri Harsha]] (Śri Harśa)<br />
|905–925<br />
|-<br />
|6<br />
|[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman]] (Yaśovarman)<br />
|925–950<br />
|-<br />
|7<br />
|[[Dhangavarman]] <br />
|950–999<br />
|-<br />
|8<br />
|[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda-Deva]] (Gaṇḍadeva)<br />
|999–1002<br />
|-<br />
|9<br />
|[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] (Vidyādhara)<br />
|1003–1035<br />
|-<br />
|10<br />
|[[Vijayapala|Vijaya-Pala]] (Vijayapāla)<br />
|1035–1050<br />
|-<br />
|11<br />
|[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Deva-Varman]]<br />
|1050–1060<br />
|-<br />
|12<br />
|[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirtti-Varman]] (Kīrtivarman)<br />
|1060–1100<br />
|-<br />
|13<br />
|[[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (Sallakṣaṇavarman)<br />
|1100–1110<br />
|-<br />
|14<br />
|[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jaya-Varman]]<br />
|1110–1120<br />
|-<br />
|15<br />
|[[Prithvivarman|Prithvi-Varman]] (Pṛthvīvarman)<br />
|1120–1128<br />
|-<br />
|16<br />
|[[Madanavarman|Madana-Varman]]<br />
|1128–1164<br />
|-<br />
|17<br />
|[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman II]]<br />
|1164–1165<br />
|-<br />
|18<br />
|[[Paramardideva|Paramardi-Deva]]<br />
|1165–1203<br />
|-<br />
|19<br />
|[[Trailokyavarman|Trailokya-Varman]]<br />
|1203–1245<br />
|-<br />
|20<br />
|[[Viravarman|Vira-Varman]] (Vīravarman)<br />
|1245–1285<br />
|-<br />
|21<br />
|[[Bhojavarman|Bhoja-Varman]]<br />
|1285–1288<br />
|-<br />
|22<br />
|[[Hammiravarman|Hammira-Varman]] (Hammīravarman)<br />
|1288–1311<br />
|-<br />
|23<br />
|Vira-Varman II<br />
|1311–1315<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Family tree ==<br />
<br />
{{Chart top|width=100%|collapsed=yes|Chandela dynasty}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart/start|align=center|style=font-size:90%}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Nannuka]]'''<br><sup>(1)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 831-845</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]]'''<br><sup>(2)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 845-865</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(3)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Vijayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(4)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Rahila]]'''<br><sup>(5)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 885-905</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]]'''<br><sup>(6)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 905-925</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman I]]'''<br><sup>(7)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 925-950</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Dhanga]]deva'''<br><sup>(8)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 950-999</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandadeva]]'''<br><sup>(9)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 999-1002</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]]'''<br><sup>(10)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1003-1035</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vijayapala]]'''<br><sup>(11)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1035-1050</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavarman]]'''<br><sup>(12)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1050-1060</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]]'''<br><sup>(13)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1060-1100</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Sallakshanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(14)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1100-1110</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Prithvivarman]]'''<br><sup>(16)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1120-1128</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]]'''<br><sup>(15)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1110-1120</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Madanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(17)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1128-1165</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]]'''<br><sup>(18)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|+|-|-|-|.| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Paramardi]]'''<br><sup>(19)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165-1203</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Viravarman]]'''<br><sup>(21)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1245-1285</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03=Child of<br>Yashovarman}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Trailokyavarman]]'''<br><sup>(20)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1203–1245</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Hammiravarman]]'''<br><sup>(23)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1288-1311</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03='''[[Bhojavarman]]'''<br><sup>(22)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1285-1288</small>|boxstyle_A03=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart/end}}<br />
<br />
{{Chart bottom}}<br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[History of Madhya Pradesh]]<br />
* [[Chandel (Rajput clan)]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kalanjara]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kumaun]]<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Harihar Vitthal Trivedi |title=Inscriptions of the Paramāras (Part 2) |series=Corpus Inscriptionum Indicarum Volume VII: Inscriptions of the Paramāras, Chandēllas, Kachchapaghātas, and two minor dynasties |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8B4LAQAAMAAJ |year=1991 |publisher=[[Archaeological Survey of India]] }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Om Prakash Misra |title=Archaeological Excavations in Central India: Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=o0ISjDDWJwQC&pg=PA11 |year=2003 |publisher=Mittal Publications |isbn=978-81-7099-874-7 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Peter Jackson |author-link=Peter Jackson (historian) |title=The Delhi Sultanate: A Political and Military History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=lt2tqOpVRKgC&pg=PA199 |year=2003 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-0-521-54329-3 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=R. K. Dikshit |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130 |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Romila Thapar |author-link=Romila Thapar |title=The Past Before Us |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aei9AAAAQBAJ&pg=PA571 |year=2013 |publisher=Harvard University Press |isbn=978-0-674-72651-2 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sisirkumar Mitra |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA113 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sushil Kumar Sullerey |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{refend}}<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
* {{commons category-inline|Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti| ]]<br />
[[Category:Medieval Indian dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Hindu dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Bundelkhand]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:9th-century establishments in India]]<br />
[[Category:14th-century disestablishments in India]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chandel_Empire&diff=562220Chandel Empire2026-09-16T08:26:54Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Late medieval Hindu dynasty of India (800-16th c.)}}<br />
{{pp-extended|small=yes}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=March 2013}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2022}}<br />
{{Infobox country<br />
|conventional_long_name = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
|common_name = Chandela<br />
|era = [[Medieval India]]<br />
|government_type = Monarchy<br />
|year_start = {{Circa|early 9th c.}}<br />
|year_end = 16th c.<br />
|p1 = Kalachuris of Tripuri<br />
| s1 = Mamluk dynasty (Delhi)<br />
| s2 = Mughal Empire <br />
|image_map = Map of the Candellas.png<br />
|image_map_caption = Territory of the Chandelas during the reign of [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] circa 1025 CE.<ref name="JS">{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical Atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=Oxford University Press, Digital South Asia Library|author-link=Joseph E. Schwartzberg |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/cgi-bin/reference/schwartzberg/query.py?display_type=image_display&object=183#gsc.tab=0|page=146, Map "j"}}</ref><br />
|map_width = 300px<br />
|capital = {{ubl|[[Khajuraho]]|[[Kalanjara]]|[[Mahoba]]}}<br />
|common_languages = [[Sanskrit]]<br />
|religion = {{ubl|[[Hinduism]]|[[Jainism]]}}<br />
|today = [[India]]<br />
| image_coat = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti. Sallakshana Varman. Circa 1120-1135 CE.jpg<br />
| coa_size = 280px<br />
| symbol_type = Coinage of [[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (1120–1135 CE), Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
}}<br />
<br />
The '''Chandel Empire''' ([[Sanskrit]]: चन्देल साम्राज्य, [[IAST]]: ''Çandela empire''), also known as '''Chandelas of Jejakabhukti''' was an [[Indian]] empire during the [[medieval India|medieval period]] of the Indian subcontinent which existed from the 9th century to the 16th century CE. At its peak, the dynasty ruled an empire that stretched across more than half of the [[Indian subcontinent]], with its country called [[Jejakabhukti (Chandela country)|Jejakabhukti]]. The ruling dynasty of the empire was founded by the Chandela ruler [[Nannukavarman]], who established [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]] in the early 9th century. The dynasty belonged to the [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]] clan of the [[Rajput|Rajputs]].<ref>*{{Cite book |author=Upinder Singh|author-link=Upinder Singh|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7DRuAAAAMAAJ |title=The Discovery of Ancient India: Early Archaeologists and the Beginnings of Archaeology |date=2004 |publisher=Permanent Black |isbn=978-81-7824-088-6|page=73|quote=Discussion of the histories of various Rajput clans, such as the Chauhans, Kachhvahas, Chandelas, Pratiharas and Tomaras on the basis of a wide range of sources-literary, epigraphic, numismatic, bardic accounts and local traditions|language=en}}<br />
*{{Cite book|last1=Kulke|first1=Hermann|author-link1=Hermann Kulke|last2=Rothermund|first2=Dietmar |author-link2=Dietmar Rothermund|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TPVq3ykHyH4C|title=A History of India|date=2004|publisher=Psychology Press|isbn=978-0-415-32919-4|language=en|page=117|quote="When Gurjara Pratiharas power declined after the sacking of Kannauj by the Rashtrakutas in the early tenth century many Rajput princes declared their independence and founded their own kingdoms, some of which grew to importance in the subsequent two centuries. The better known among those dynasties were the Chaulukyas or Solankis of Gujarat and Kathiawar, the Chahamanas (i.e. Chauhans) of eastern Rajasthan (Ajmer and Jodhpur) and the Tomaras who had founded Delhi (Dhillika) in 736 but had been displaced by the Chauhans in the twelfth century. Rajput descent was also claimed by the Chandelas of Khujuraho and the Kalachuris of Tripuri"}}<br />
*{{Cite book |author=Romila Thapar|author-link=Romila Thapar|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=i6cwDwAAQBAJ |title=Early India: From the Origins to AD 1300 |date=2004|publisher=University of California Press |isbn=978-0-520-24225-8 |page=420|quote=Other claiming to be Rajputs and descended from the solar and lunar lines, established themselves as local kings in various parts of western and central India. Among them were the Chandellas, prominent in the tenth century in Bundelkhand with their centre at Khajuraho and their territory known as Jejakabhukti|language=en}}<br />
*{{harvnb|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=8}}: "The Candellas are undoubtedly a Rajput clan and the epigraphic evidences does not show that any inferiority was applied to them in the past. It reveals their matrimonial relationship with important Rajput families from the very beginning of their history"</ref><br />
<br />
The Chandelas initially ruled as feudatories of the [[Gurjara-Pratihara]]s of [[Kanyakubja]] (Kannauj). The 10th century Chandela ruler Harshavarman became the indipendent chandela king, he defeated Rashtrakuta Empire, recrowned pratihara ruler mahipala, while his son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] defeated Pratihara empire. y the time of his successor [[Dhangavarman (Chandel emperor)|Dhanga]], the Chandelas had become a sovereign power. Their power rose and declined as they fought battles with the neighbouring dynasties, especially the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]]s of [[Malwa]] and the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]. From the 11th century onwards, they faced raids by the northern Muslim dynasties, including the [[Ghaznavid]]s and the [[Ghurid]]s. The Chandela power effectively ended around the beginning of the 13th century, following selhiiSultanate ons.<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture, most notably for the temples at their original capital [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]]. They also commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at other places, including their strongholds of [[Ajaigarh]], [[Kalinjar]] and their later capital [[Mahoba]].<br />
<br />
== Origin ==<br />
The origin of the Chandelas is obscured by mythical legends. The epigraphic records of the dynasty, as well as contemporary texts such as ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' and ''Prabodha-chandrodaya'', suggest that the Chandelas belonged to the legendary [[Lunar dynasty]] (''Chandravansha'').{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} A 954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription states that the dynasty's first king [[Nannuka]] was a descendant of sage Chandratreya, who was a son of [[Atri]]. A 1002 CE Khajuraho inscription gives a slightly different account, in which Chandratreya is mentioned as a son of Indu (the Moon) and a grandson of Atri.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} The 1195 CE Baghari inscription and the 1260 CE Ajaygadh inscription contain similar accounts.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=5}} The ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' also names [[Atri]] among the ancestors of the Chandelas. Another Khajuraho inscription describes the Chandela king [[Dhanga]] as a member of the [[Vrishni]] clan of the [[Yadavas]] (who also claimed to be part of the Lunar dynasty).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}}<br />
<br />
[[File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638391942).jpg |thumb|left|upright|Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
The ''Mahoba-Khanda'' legend of the dynasty's origin goes like this: Hemaraja, a priest of the [[Gahadavala|Gaharwar]] king of [[Varanasi|Benares]], had a beautiful daughter named Hemavati. Once, while Hemavati was bathing in a pond, the moon god [[Chandra]] saw her and made love to her. Hemavati was worried about the dishonour of being an unwed mother, but Chandra assured her that their son would become a great king. This child was the dynasty's progenitor Chandravarma. Chandra presented him with a [[philosopher's stone]] and taught him politics.<ref name="Asopa1976">{{cite book |author=Jai Narayan Asopa |title=Origin of the Rajputs |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=I_KznQEACAAJ |year=1976 |publisher=Bharatiya Publishing House |page=208}}</ref>{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} The dynasty's own records do not mention Hemavati, Hemaraja or Indrajit. Such legends appear to be later bardic inventions. In general, the ''Mahoba-Khanda'' is a historically unreliable text.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} ''Prithviraj Raso'' is also considered an historically unreliable text.<ref>{{cite book | editor=K Ayyappap Panikkar | title=Medieval Indian literature: an anthology (Volume 1) | author = Vijayendra Snatak | chapter = Medieval Hindi Literature | chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KYLpvaKJIMEC&pg=PA142 |year=1997 | publisher=Sahitya Akademi | isbn=978-81-260-0365-5 | page=142}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Serving empire, serving nation: James Tod and the Rajputs of Rajasthan |first=Jason |last=Freitag |publisher=BRILL |year=2009 |isbn=978-90-04-17594-5 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ib93BhAu43gC |pages=3–5}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=R. V. Somani |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NcIBAAAAMAAJ |title=History of Mewar, from Earliest Times to 1751 A.D. |publisher=Mateshwari |year=1976 |oclc=2929852 |page= 30}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[File:Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh.jpg|thumb|Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh. [[Metropolitan Museum of Art]].]]<br />
British indologist [[Vincent Arthur Smith|V. A. Smith]] theorized that the Chandelas were of either [[Bhar]] or [[Gondi people|Gond]] origin. Some other scholars including [[R. C. Majumdar]] also supported this theory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=6}} The Chandelas worshipped Maniya, a tribal goddess, whose temples are located at Mahoba and Maniyagadh.<ref name="Ali_2008">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iXVNBAAAQBAJ&pg=PA44 |title=World Heritage Monuments and Related Edifices in India |volume=1 |author=Ali Javid and Tabassum Javeed |publisher=Algora |year=2008 |isbn=9780875864822 |page=44 }}</ref> Besides, they have been associated with places that are also associated with Bhars and Gonds. Also, [[Rani Durgavati]], whose family claimed Chandela descent married a Gond chief of [[Mandla|Garha-Mandla]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Historian R. K. Dikshit does not find these arguments convincing: he argues that Maniya was not a tribal deity.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}} Also, the dynasty's association with Gond territory is not necessarily indicative of a common descent: the dynasty's progenitor may have been posted as a governor in these territories.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Finally, Durgavati's marriage to a Gond chief can be dismissed as a one-off case.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}}<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
<br />
=== Early rulers ===<br />
<br />
The Chandelas were originally vassals of the [[Gurjara-Pratiharas]].<ref>Radhey Shyam Chaurasia, History of Ancient India: Earliest Times to 1000 A. D.</ref> [[Nannuka]] (r. {{Circa|831}}–845 CE), the founder of the dynasty, was the ruler of a small kingdom centered around [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]].<ref>{{cite book |author=Sailendra Sen |title=A Textbook of Medieval Indian History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UdW6lAEACAAJ |year=2013 |publisher=Primus |isbn=978-93-80607-34-4 |page=22}}</ref><br />
<br />
According to the Chandela inscriptions, Nannuka's successor [[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] defeated several enemies.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=27-28}} Vakpati's sons [[Jayashakti]] (Jeja) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vija) consolidated the Chandela power.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=30}} According to a [[Mahoba]] inscription, the Chandela territory was named "Jejakabhukti" after the Jayashakti.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=28}} Vijayashakti's successor [[Rahila]] is credited with several military victories in eulogistic inscriptions.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=30–31}} Rahila's son [[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]] played an important role in restoring the rule of the Pratihara king [[Mahipala I|Mahipala]], possibly after a [[Rashtrakuta]] invasion or after Mahiapala's conflict with his step-brother [[Bhoja II (Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty)|Bhoja II]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=32–35}}<br />
<br />
=== Rise as a sovereign power ===<br />
[[File:Kirtivarman Chandela visits the temple of Khajurahu.jpg|thumb|A 20th century artist's imagination of Kirtivarman Chandela visiting a [[Khajuraho]] temple]]<br />
Harsha's son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] (r. c. 925–950 CE) continued to acknowledge the Pratihara suzerainty, but became practically independent.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=36–37}} He conquered the important fortress of [[Kalanjara]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}} A 953–954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription credits him with several other military successes, including against [[Gauḍa (region)|Gaudas]] (identified with the [[Pala Empire|Palas]]), the [[Khasas]], the [[Chedi Kingdom|Chedis]] (the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]), the [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosalas]] (possibly the [[Somavaṃśī dynasty|Somavamshis]]), the [[Mithila (ancient)|Mithila]] (possibly a small tributary ruler), [[Malwa|Malavas]] (identified with the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramaras]]), the [[Kuru Kingdom|Kurus]], the [[Kasmira Kingdom|Kashmiris]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=42-51}} These claims appear to be exaggerated, as similar claims of extensive conquests in northern India are also found in the records of the other contemporary kings such as the Kalachuri king Yuva-Raja and the Rashtrakuta king [[Krishna III]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=42}} Yashovarman's reign marked the beginning of the famous Chandela-era art and architecture. He commissioned the [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}}<br />
<br />
Unlike the earlier Chandela inscriptions, the records of Yashovarman's successor [[Dhanga]] (r. c. 950–999 CE) do not mention any Pratihara overlord. This indicates that Dhanga formally established the Chandela sovereignty.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=57}} A Khajuraho inscription claims that the rulers of [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosala]], Kratha (part of [[Vidarbha]] region), [[Kuntala country|Kuntala]], and [[Sinhala Kingdom|Simhala]] listened humbly to the commands of Dhanga's officers. It also claims that the wives of the kings of [[Andhra Kingdom|Andhra]], [[Anga]], [[Kanchi Kingdom|Kanchi]] and [[Rarh region|Raḍha]] resided in his prisons as a result of his success in wars. These appear to be eulogistic exaggerations by a court poet, but suggest that Dhanga did undertake extensive military campaigns.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=56}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=61–65}} Like his predecessor, Dhanga also commissioned a magnificent temple at Khajuraho, which is identified as the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=69}}<br />
<br />
Dhanga's successor [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda]] appears to have retained the territory he inherited.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72}} His son [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] killed theking of [[Kannauj]] (possibly Rajyapala) for fleeing his capital instead of fighting the [[Ghaznavid]] invader [[Mahmud of Ghazni]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72–73}}{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=72}} Mahmud later invaded Vidyadhara's kingdom; according to the Muslim invaders, this conflict ended with Vidyadhara paying tribute to Mahmud.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=81–82}} Vidyadhara is noted for having commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=26}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela art and architecture reached its zenith during this period. The [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] (c. 930–950 CE), the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]] (c. 999–1002 CE) and the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] (c. 1030 CE) were constructed during the reigns of Yashovarman, Dhanga and Vidyadhara respectively. These [[Nagara architecture|Nagara-style]] temples are representative of the most fully developed style at Khajuraho.<ref name="James_1994">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LwcBVvdqyBkC&pg=PA234 |title=The Art and Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent |author=James C. Harle |publisher=Yale University Press |year=1994 |page=234 |isbn=0300062176 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Nagara-style temples of Khajuraho"><br />
India-5679 - Flickr - archer10 (Dennis).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]]<br />
File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638423582).jpg|[[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha Temple]]<br />
Vishwanath N-MP-23.jpg | [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]]<br />
A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg | [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
=== Decline ===<br />
[[File:Mahadeva Temple, Khajuraho.jpg|thumb|[[Surasundari]] and [[vyala]], [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
[[File:Le Temple Kandariya Mahadeva (Khajurâho) (8503001895).jpg|thumb|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple|Kandariya Mahadeva temple]] carvings.]]<br />
By the end of Vidyadhara's reign, the [[Ghaznavid]] invasions had weakened the Chandela kingdom. Taking advantage of this, the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]] conquered eastern parts of the kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=89–90}} Chandela inscriptions suggest that Vidyadhara's successor [[Vijayapala]] (r. c. 1035–1050 CE) defeated Gangeya in a battle.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=88}} However, the Chandela power started declining during the Vijayapala's reign.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=101}} The [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghatas]] of [[Gwalior]] probably gave up their allegiance to the Chandelas during this period.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=90}}<br />
<br />
Vijayapala's elder son [[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavavarman]] was subjugated by Gangeya's son [[Lakshmikarna|Lakshmi-Karna]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=91}} His younger brother [[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]] resurrected the Chandela power by defeating Lakshmi-Karna.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=94}} Kirtivarman's son [[Sallakshanavarman]] achieved military successes against the Paramaras and the Kalachuris, possibly by raiding their territories. A [[Mau, Uttar Pradesh|Mau]] inscription suggests that he also conducted successful campaigns in the Antarvedi region (the Ganga-Yamuna [[doab]]).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=120-121}} His son [[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]] was of religious temperament and abdicated the throne after being tired of governance.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=126}}<br />
<br />
Jayavarman appears to have died heirless, as he was succeeded by his uncle [[Prithvivarman]], the younger son of Kirttivarman.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=110–111}} The Chandela inscriptions do not ascribe any military achievements to him; it appears that he was focused on maintaining the existing Chandela territories without adopting an aggressive expansionist policy.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=111}}<br />
<br />
=== Revival ===<br />
<br />
By the time Prithvivarman's son [[Madanavarman]] (r. c. 1128–1165 CE) ascended the throne, the neighbouring [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] and [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] kingdoms had been weakened by enemy invasions. Taking advantage of this situation, Madanavarman defeated the Kalachuri king [[Gayakarna|Gaya-Karna]], and possibly annexed the northern part of the [[Baghelkhand]] region.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132}} However, the Chandelas lost this territory to Gaya-Karna's successor [[Narasimha (Kalachuri dynasty)|Narasimha]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}} Madanavarman also captured the territory on the western periphery of the Paramara kingdom, around [[Bhilsa]] (Vidisha). This probably happened during the reign of the Paramara king [[Yashovarman (Paramara dynasty)|Yashovarman]] or his son [[Jayavarman I (Paramara dynasty)|Jayavarman]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=130–132}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=112-113}} Once again, the Chandelas could not retain the newly annexed territory for long, and the region was recaptured by Yashovarman's son Lakshmivarman.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}}<br />
<br />
[[Jayasimha Siddharaja]], the [[Chaulukya]] king of Gujarat, also invaded the Paramara territory, which was located between the Chandela and the Chaulukya kingdoms. This brought him in conflict with Madanavarman. The result of this conflict appears to have been inconclusive, as records of both the kingdoms claim victory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=133}} A [[Kalanjara]] inscription suggests that Madanavarman defeated Jayasimha. On the other hand, the various chronicles of Gujarat claim that Jayasimha either defeated Madanavarman or extracted a tribute from him.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=133–134}} Madanavarman maintained friendly relations with his northern neighbours, the [[Gahadavala]]s.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132-133}}<br />
<br />
Madanavarman's son [[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]] either did not rule, or ruled for a very short time. Madanavarman's grandson [[Paramardi|Paramardi-deva]] was the last powerful Chandela king.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=130}}<br />
<br />
=== Final decline ===<br />
{{South Asia in 1175||Location of the Chandelas and neighbouring South Asian polities in 1175, on the eve of the [[Ghurid Empire]] invasion of the subcontinent.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=University of Chicago Press |location=Chicago |pages=37, 147|isbn=0226742210 |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/schwartzberg/pager.html?object=074}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Eaton |first1=Richard M. |title=India in the Persianate Age: 1000-1765 |date=25 July 2019 |publisher=Penguin UK |isbn=978-0-14-196655-7 |page=38 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aIF6DwAAQBAJ&pg=PP31 |language=en}}</ref>|{{Annotation|152|90|[[File:Orange dot (semi-transparent).png|35px]]}}}}<br />
[[Paramardi]] (reigned c. 1165-1203 CE) ascended the Chandela throne at a young age. While the early years of his reign were peaceful, around 1182–1183 CE, the [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari|Chahamana]] ruler [[Prithviraj Chauhan]] invaded the Chandela kingdom. According to the medieval legendary ballads, Prithviraj's army lost its way after a surprise attack by ([[Ghurid]]) [[Turkic peoples|Turkic]] forces, and unknowingly camped at the Chandela capital [[Mahoba]]. This led to a brief conflict between the Chandelas and the Chauhans, before Prithviraj left for Delhi. Sometime later, Prithviraj invaded the Chandela kingdom and sacked Mahoba. Paramardi cowardly took shelter in the [[Kalanjara]] fort. The Chandela force, led by [[Alha]], Udal [[banaphar]], rajputs, of Mahoba|Udal]] and other generals, was defeated in this battle. Nowadays [[ahir]], caste claims alha udal but according to historians and alha khand and mahoba khand they belongs to [[banaphar]], clan of [[rajput]], caste and their mother was of [[ahir]], which is why they are called of mixed origin.According to the various ballads, Paramardi either committed suicide out of shame or retired to [[Gaya, India|Gaya]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=120–123}}<br />
<br />
Prithviraj Chauhan's raid of Mahoba is corroborated by his [[Madanpur, Lalitpur, India|Madanpur]] stone inscriptions. However, there are several instances of historical inaccuracies in the bardic legends. For example, it is known that Paramardi did not retire or die immediately after the Chauhan victory. He restored the Chandela power, and ruled as a sovereign until around 1202–1203 CE, when [[Qutb al-Din Aibak]], the [[Ghurid Empire]] governor of [[Delhi]], invaded the Chandela kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=123–126}} According to ''Taj-ul-Maasir'', a chronicle of the [[Delhi Sultanate]], Paramardi surrendered to the Delhi forces. He promised to pay tribute to the Sultan, but died before he could keep this promise. His [[dewan]] offered some resistance to the invading forces, but was ultimately subdued. The 16th century historian [[Firishta]] states that Paramardi was assassinated by his own minister, who disagreed with the king's decision to surrender to the Delhi forces.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela power did not fully recover from their defeat against the Delhi forces. Paramardi was succeeded by [[Trailokyavarman]], [[Viravarman]] and [[Bhojavarman]]. The next ruler [[Hammiravarman]] (r. c. 1288–1311 CE) did not use the imperial title [[Maharajadhiraja]], which indicates that the Chandela king had a lower status by his time. The Chandela power continued to decline because of the rising Muslim influence, as well as the rise of other local dynasties, such as the [[Bundela]]s, the Baghelas and the [[Khangar (community)|Khangars]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=179}}<br />
<br />
Hammiravarman was succeeded by Viravarman II, whose titles do not indicate a high political status.{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}{{sfn|Om Prakash Misra|2003|p=11}} [[Chandelas of Kalanjara (minor Chandela branch)|One minor branch of the family continued ruling Kalanjara]]: its ruler was killed by [[Sher Shah Suri]]'s army in 1545 CE. Another minor branch ruled at [[Mahoba]]: [[Rani Durgavati|Durgavati]], one of its princesses married into the [[Garha Kingdom|Gond]] royal family of [[Mandla]]. Some other ruling families also claimed Chandela descent (see [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]]).{{sfn|Romila Thapar|2013|p=572}}<br />
<br />
== Art and architecture ==<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture. They commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at various places. The most famous example of their cultural achievements are the Hindu and Jain temples at [[Khajuraho]]. Three other important Chandela strongholds were Jayapura-Durga (modern [[Ajaigarh]]), Kalanjara (modern [[Kalinjar]]) and Mahotsava-Nagara (modern [[Mahoba]]).{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela architecture"><br />
Khajuraho Dulhadeo 2010.jpg | Dulhadeo temple, Khajuraho<br />
0B Ajaigarh 4 sides temple.jpg | Ajaigarh temple<br />
Yajna mandap in kulpahar.jpg | A [[yajna]] [[mandapa]] at [[Kulpahar]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
Other smaller Chandela sites include Chandpur, [[Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh|Deogarh]], Dudahi, [[Kakadeo]], Madanpur and [[Aharji Jain Teerth|Aharji]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<ref>{{cite book |last1=Titze |first1=Kurt |last2=Bruhn|first2=Klaus |title=Jainism: A Pictorial Guide to the Religion of Non-Violence |url={{Google books|loQkEIf8z5wC|page=123|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=[[Motilal Banarsidass]] |edition=2 |year=1998 |isbn=978-81-208-1534-6 | page=128 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Reddy |first=P. Chenny | author-link=P. Chenna Reddy |title=Kalyana Mitra: A treasure house of history, culture and archaeological studies | volume=5 |url={{Google books|prCqEAAAQBAJ|page=197|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=Blue Rose Publishers |year=2023 |isbn=978-93-5741-111-0 | page=197 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela sculptures"><br />
Brahma and his consort.jpg | Brahma and his consort, Khajuraho<br />
Ajaygarh Alians ship.jpg | Stone carving, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Neel Swarshwati.jpg | Jain [[tirthankara]]s and [[Sarasvati]], Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh seven heavens of Jain.jpg | Jain heavens, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Shramanas Egyptian style rock cut.jpg | Jain [[shramana]]s, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh treasure sign.jpg | Cattle with treasure sign, Ajaigarh<br />
35. Khajuraho Visvanath apsara.jpg | [[Surasundari]] [[Apsara]], Khajuraho<br />
Khajuraho 126.jpg | Dancing Ganesha, Khajuraho<br />
<br />
Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638393390).jpg | [[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha temple]] carvings<br />
Le Temple de Lakshmana (Khajurâho) (8498182643).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana temple]] carvings<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== List of Rulers==<br />
<br />
Based on epigraphic records, the historians have come up with the following list of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti ([[IAST]] names in brackets):{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=25}}{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=25}}{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+List of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti<br />
! S.N.<br />
! Ruler's regional name ([[IAST]] name in bracket)<br />
! Reign (CE)<br />
|-<br />
|1<br />
|[[Nannuka]]<br />
|831–845<br />
|-<br />
|2<br />
|[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] (Vākpati)<br />
|845–865<br />
|-<br />
|3<br />
|[[Jayashakti]] (Jayaśakti) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vijayaśakti)<br />
|865–885<br />
|-<br />
|4<br />
|[[Rahila]] (Rāhila)<br />
|885–905<br />
|-<br />
|5<br />
|[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Shri Harsha]] (Śri Harśa)<br />
|905–925<br />
|-<br />
|6<br />
|[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman]] (Yaśovarman)<br />
|925–950<br />
|-<br />
|7<br />
|[[Dhangavarman]] <br />
|950–999<br />
|-<br />
|8<br />
|[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda-Deva]] (Gaṇḍadeva)<br />
|999–1002<br />
|-<br />
|9<br />
|[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] (Vidyādhara)<br />
|1003–1035<br />
|-<br />
|10<br />
|[[Vijayapala|Vijaya-Pala]] (Vijayapāla)<br />
|1035–1050<br />
|-<br />
|11<br />
|[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Deva-Varman]]<br />
|1050–1060<br />
|-<br />
|12<br />
|[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirtti-Varman]] (Kīrtivarman)<br />
|1060–1100<br />
|-<br />
|13<br />
|[[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (Sallakṣaṇavarman)<br />
|1100–1110<br />
|-<br />
|14<br />
|[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jaya-Varman]]<br />
|1110–1120<br />
|-<br />
|15<br />
|[[Prithvivarman|Prithvi-Varman]] (Pṛthvīvarman)<br />
|1120–1128<br />
|-<br />
|16<br />
|[[Madanavarman|Madana-Varman]]<br />
|1128–1164<br />
|-<br />
|17<br />
|[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman II]]<br />
|1164–1165<br />
|-<br />
|18<br />
|[[Paramardideva|Paramardi-Deva]]<br />
|1165–1203<br />
|-<br />
|19<br />
|[[Trailokyavarman|Trailokya-Varman]]<br />
|1203–1245<br />
|-<br />
|20<br />
|[[Viravarman|Vira-Varman]] (Vīravarman)<br />
|1245–1285<br />
|-<br />
|21<br />
|[[Bhojavarman|Bhoja-Varman]]<br />
|1285–1288<br />
|-<br />
|22<br />
|[[Hammiravarman|Hammira-Varman]] (Hammīravarman)<br />
|1288–1311<br />
|-<br />
|23<br />
|Vira-Varman II<br />
|1311–1315<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Family tree ==<br />
<br />
{{Chart top|width=100%|collapsed=yes|Chandela dynasty}}<br />
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A01='''[[Nannuka]]'''<br><sup>(1)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 831-845</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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A01='''[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]]'''<br><sup>(2)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 845-865</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(3)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Vijayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(4)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Rahila]]'''<br><sup>(5)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 885-905</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]]'''<br><sup>(6)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 905-925</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman I]]'''<br><sup>(7)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 925-950</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Dhanga]]deva'''<br><sup>(8)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 950-999</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandadeva]]'''<br><sup>(9)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 999-1002</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]]'''<br><sup>(10)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1003-1035</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vijayapala]]'''<br><sup>(11)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1035-1050</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavarman]]'''<br><sup>(12)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1050-1060</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]]'''<br><sup>(13)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1060-1100</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Sallakshanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(14)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1100-1110</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Prithvivarman]]'''<br><sup>(16)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1120-1128</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]]'''<br><sup>(15)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1110-1120</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Madanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(17)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1128-1165</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]]'''<br><sup>(18)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Paramardi]]'''<br><sup>(19)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165-1203</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Viravarman]]'''<br><sup>(21)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1245-1285</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03=Child of<br>Yashovarman}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Trailokyavarman]]'''<br><sup>(20)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1203–1245</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Hammiravarman]]'''<br><sup>(23)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1288-1311</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03='''[[Bhojavarman]]'''<br><sup>(22)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1285-1288</small>|boxstyle_A03=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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== See also ==<br />
* [[History of Madhya Pradesh]]<br />
* [[Chandel (Rajput clan)]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kalanjara]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kumaun]]<br />
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== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
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=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Harihar Vitthal Trivedi |title=Inscriptions of the Paramāras (Part 2) |series=Corpus Inscriptionum Indicarum Volume VII: Inscriptions of the Paramāras, Chandēllas, Kachchapaghātas, and two minor dynasties |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8B4LAQAAMAAJ |year=1991 |publisher=[[Archaeological Survey of India]] }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Om Prakash Misra |title=Archaeological Excavations in Central India: Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=o0ISjDDWJwQC&pg=PA11 |year=2003 |publisher=Mittal Publications |isbn=978-81-7099-874-7 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Peter Jackson |author-link=Peter Jackson (historian) |title=The Delhi Sultanate: A Political and Military History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=lt2tqOpVRKgC&pg=PA199 |year=2003 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-0-521-54329-3 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=R. K. Dikshit |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130 |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Romila Thapar |author-link=Romila Thapar |title=The Past Before Us |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aei9AAAAQBAJ&pg=PA571 |year=2013 |publisher=Harvard University Press |isbn=978-0-674-72651-2 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sisirkumar Mitra |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA113 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sushil Kumar Sullerey |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{refend}}<br />
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== External links ==<br />
* {{commons category-inline|Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti| ]]<br />
[[Category:Medieval Indian dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Hindu dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Bundelkhand]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:9th-century establishments in India]]<br />
[[Category:14th-century disestablishments in India]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chandel_Empire&diff=562219Chandel Empire2026-09-16T08:23:05Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Late medieval Hindu dynasty of India (800-16th c.)}}<br />
{{pp-extended|small=yes}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=March 2013}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2022}}<br />
{{Infobox country<br />
|conventional_long_name = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
|common_name = Chandela<br />
|era = [[Medieval India]]<br />
|government_type = Monarchy<br />
|year_start = {{Circa|early 9th c.}}<br />
|year_end = 16th c.<br />
|p1 = Kalachuris of Tripuri<br />
| s1 = Mamluk dynasty (Delhi)<br />
| s2 = Mughal Empire <br />
|image_map = Map of the Candellas.png<br />
|image_map_caption = Territory of the Chandelas during the reign of [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] circa 1025 CE.<ref name="JS">{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical Atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=Oxford University Press, Digital South Asia Library|author-link=Joseph E. Schwartzberg |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/cgi-bin/reference/schwartzberg/query.py?display_type=image_display&object=183#gsc.tab=0|page=146, Map "j"}}</ref><br />
|map_width = 300px<br />
|capital = {{ubl|[[Khajuraho]]|[[Kalanjara]]|[[Mahoba]]}}<br />
|common_languages = [[Sanskrit]]<br />
|religion = {{ubl|[[Hinduism]]|[[Jainism]]}}<br />
|today = [[India]]<br />
| image_coat = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti. Sallakshana Varman. Circa 1120-1135 CE.jpg<br />
| coa_size = 280px<br />
| symbol_type = Coinage of [[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (1120–1135 CE), Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
}}<br />
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The '''Chandel Empire''' ([[Sanskrit]]: चन्देल साम्राज्य, [[IAST]]: Çandela empire), also known as '''Chandelas of Jejakabhukti''' was an [[Indian]] empire during the [[medieval India|medieval period]] of the Indian subcontinent which existed from the 9th century to the 16th century CE. At its peak, the dynasty ruled an empire that stretched across more than half of the [[Indian subcontinent]], with its country called [[Jejakabhukti (Chandela country)|Jejakabhukti]]. The ruling dynasty of the empire was founded by the Chandela ruler [[Nannukavarman]], who established [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]] in the early 9th century. The dynasty belonged to the [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]] clan of the [[Rajput|Rajputs]].<ref>*{{Cite book |author=Upinder Singh|author-link=Upinder Singh|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7DRuAAAAMAAJ |title=The Discovery of Ancient India: Early Archaeologists and the Beginnings of Archaeology |date=2004 |publisher=Permanent Black |isbn=978-81-7824-088-6|page=73|quote=Discussion of the histories of various Rajput clans, such as the Chauhans, Kachhvahas, Chandelas, Pratiharas and Tomaras on the basis of a wide range of sources-literary, epigraphic, numismatic, bardic accounts and local traditions|language=en}}<br />
*{{Cite book|last1=Kulke|first1=Hermann|author-link1=Hermann Kulke|last2=Rothermund|first2=Dietmar |author-link2=Dietmar Rothermund|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TPVq3ykHyH4C|title=A History of India|date=2004|publisher=Psychology Press|isbn=978-0-415-32919-4|language=en|page=117|quote="When Gurjara Pratiharas power declined after the sacking of Kannauj by the Rashtrakutas in the early tenth century many Rajput princes declared their independence and founded their own kingdoms, some of which grew to importance in the subsequent two centuries. The better known among those dynasties were the Chaulukyas or Solankis of Gujarat and Kathiawar, the Chahamanas (i.e. Chauhans) of eastern Rajasthan (Ajmer and Jodhpur) and the Tomaras who had founded Delhi (Dhillika) in 736 but had been displaced by the Chauhans in the twelfth century. Rajput descent was also claimed by the Chandelas of Khujuraho and the Kalachuris of Tripuri"}}<br />
*{{Cite book |author=Romila Thapar|author-link=Romila Thapar|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=i6cwDwAAQBAJ |title=Early India: From the Origins to AD 1300 |date=2004|publisher=University of California Press |isbn=978-0-520-24225-8 |page=420|quote=Other claiming to be Rajputs and descended from the solar and lunar lines, established themselves as local kings in various parts of western and central India. Among them were the Chandellas, prominent in the tenth century in Bundelkhand with their centre at Khajuraho and their territory known as Jejakabhukti|language=en}}<br />
*{{harvnb|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=8}}: "The Candellas are undoubtedly a Rajput clan and the epigraphic evidences does not show that any inferiority was applied to them in the past. It reveals their matrimonial relationship with important Rajput families from the very beginning of their history"</ref><br />
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The Chandelas initially ruled as feudatories of the [[Gurjara-Pratihara]]s of [[Kanyakubja]] (Kannauj). The 10th century Chandela ruler Harshavarman became the indipendent chandela king, he defeated Rashtrakuta Empire, recrowned pratihara ruler mahipala, while his son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] defeated Pratihara empire. y the time of his successor [[Dhangavarman (Chandel emperor)|Dhanga]], the Chandelas had become a sovereign power. Their power rose and declined as they fought battles with the neighbouring dynasties, especially the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]]s of [[Malwa]] and the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]. From the 11th century onwards, they faced raids by the northern Muslim dynasties, including the [[Ghaznavid]]s and the [[Ghurid]]s. The Chandela power effectively ended around the beginning of the 13th century, following selhiiSultanate ons.<br />
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The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture, most notably for the temples at their original capital [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]]. They also commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at other places, including their strongholds of [[Ajaigarh]], [[Kalinjar]] and their later capital [[Mahoba]].<br />
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== Origin ==<br />
The origin of the Chandelas is obscured by mythical legends. The epigraphic records of the dynasty, as well as contemporary texts such as ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' and ''Prabodha-chandrodaya'', suggest that the Chandelas belonged to the legendary [[Lunar dynasty]] (''Chandravansha'').{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} A 954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription states that the dynasty's first king [[Nannuka]] was a descendant of sage Chandratreya, who was a son of [[Atri]]. A 1002 CE Khajuraho inscription gives a slightly different account, in which Chandratreya is mentioned as a son of Indu (the Moon) and a grandson of Atri.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} The 1195 CE Baghari inscription and the 1260 CE Ajaygadh inscription contain similar accounts.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=5}} The ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' also names [[Atri]] among the ancestors of the Chandelas. Another Khajuraho inscription describes the Chandela king [[Dhanga]] as a member of the [[Vrishni]] clan of the [[Yadavas]] (who also claimed to be part of the Lunar dynasty).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}}<br />
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[[File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638391942).jpg |thumb|left|upright|Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
The ''Mahoba-Khanda'' legend of the dynasty's origin goes like this: Hemaraja, a priest of the [[Gahadavala|Gaharwar]] king of [[Varanasi|Benares]], had a beautiful daughter named Hemavati. Once, while Hemavati was bathing in a pond, the moon god [[Chandra]] saw her and made love to her. Hemavati was worried about the dishonour of being an unwed mother, but Chandra assured her that their son would become a great king. This child was the dynasty's progenitor Chandravarma. Chandra presented him with a [[philosopher's stone]] and taught him politics.<ref name="Asopa1976">{{cite book |author=Jai Narayan Asopa |title=Origin of the Rajputs |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=I_KznQEACAAJ |year=1976 |publisher=Bharatiya Publishing House |page=208}}</ref>{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} The dynasty's own records do not mention Hemavati, Hemaraja or Indrajit. Such legends appear to be later bardic inventions. In general, the ''Mahoba-Khanda'' is a historically unreliable text.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} ''Prithviraj Raso'' is also considered an historically unreliable text.<ref>{{cite book | editor=K Ayyappap Panikkar | title=Medieval Indian literature: an anthology (Volume 1) | author = Vijayendra Snatak | chapter = Medieval Hindi Literature | chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KYLpvaKJIMEC&pg=PA142 |year=1997 | publisher=Sahitya Akademi | isbn=978-81-260-0365-5 | page=142}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Serving empire, serving nation: James Tod and the Rajputs of Rajasthan |first=Jason |last=Freitag |publisher=BRILL |year=2009 |isbn=978-90-04-17594-5 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ib93BhAu43gC |pages=3–5}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=R. V. Somani |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NcIBAAAAMAAJ |title=History of Mewar, from Earliest Times to 1751 A.D. |publisher=Mateshwari |year=1976 |oclc=2929852 |page= 30}}</ref><br />
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[[File:Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh.jpg|thumb|Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh. [[Metropolitan Museum of Art]].]]<br />
British indologist [[Vincent Arthur Smith|V. A. Smith]] theorized that the Chandelas were of either [[Bhar]] or [[Gondi people|Gond]] origin. Some other scholars including [[R. C. Majumdar]] also supported this theory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=6}} The Chandelas worshipped Maniya, a tribal goddess, whose temples are located at Mahoba and Maniyagadh.<ref name="Ali_2008">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iXVNBAAAQBAJ&pg=PA44 |title=World Heritage Monuments and Related Edifices in India |volume=1 |author=Ali Javid and Tabassum Javeed |publisher=Algora |year=2008 |isbn=9780875864822 |page=44 }}</ref> Besides, they have been associated with places that are also associated with Bhars and Gonds. Also, [[Rani Durgavati]], whose family claimed Chandela descent married a Gond chief of [[Mandla|Garha-Mandla]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Historian R. K. Dikshit does not find these arguments convincing: he argues that Maniya was not a tribal deity.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}} Also, the dynasty's association with Gond territory is not necessarily indicative of a common descent: the dynasty's progenitor may have been posted as a governor in these territories.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Finally, Durgavati's marriage to a Gond chief can be dismissed as a one-off case.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}}<br />
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==History==<br />
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=== Early rulers ===<br />
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The Chandelas were originally vassals of the [[Gurjara-Pratiharas]].<ref>Radhey Shyam Chaurasia, History of Ancient India: Earliest Times to 1000 A. D.</ref> [[Nannuka]] (r. {{Circa|831}}–845 CE), the founder of the dynasty, was the ruler of a small kingdom centered around [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]].<ref>{{cite book |author=Sailendra Sen |title=A Textbook of Medieval Indian History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UdW6lAEACAAJ |year=2013 |publisher=Primus |isbn=978-93-80607-34-4 |page=22}}</ref><br />
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According to the Chandela inscriptions, Nannuka's successor [[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] defeated several enemies.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=27-28}} Vakpati's sons [[Jayashakti]] (Jeja) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vija) consolidated the Chandela power.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=30}} According to a [[Mahoba]] inscription, the Chandela territory was named "Jejakabhukti" after the Jayashakti.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=28}} Vijayashakti's successor [[Rahila]] is credited with several military victories in eulogistic inscriptions.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=30–31}} Rahila's son [[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]] played an important role in restoring the rule of the Pratihara king [[Mahipala I|Mahipala]], possibly after a [[Rashtrakuta]] invasion or after Mahiapala's conflict with his step-brother [[Bhoja II (Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty)|Bhoja II]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=32–35}}<br />
<br />
=== Rise as a sovereign power ===<br />
[[File:Kirtivarman Chandela visits the temple of Khajurahu.jpg|thumb|A 20th century artist's imagination of Kirtivarman Chandela visiting a [[Khajuraho]] temple]]<br />
Harsha's son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] (r. c. 925–950 CE) continued to acknowledge the Pratihara suzerainty, but became practically independent.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=36–37}} He conquered the important fortress of [[Kalanjara]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}} A 953–954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription credits him with several other military successes, including against [[Gauḍa (region)|Gaudas]] (identified with the [[Pala Empire|Palas]]), the [[Khasas]], the [[Chedi Kingdom|Chedis]] (the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]), the [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosalas]] (possibly the [[Somavaṃśī dynasty|Somavamshis]]), the [[Mithila (ancient)|Mithila]] (possibly a small tributary ruler), [[Malwa|Malavas]] (identified with the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramaras]]), the [[Kuru Kingdom|Kurus]], the [[Kasmira Kingdom|Kashmiris]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=42-51}} These claims appear to be exaggerated, as similar claims of extensive conquests in northern India are also found in the records of the other contemporary kings such as the Kalachuri king Yuva-Raja and the Rashtrakuta king [[Krishna III]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=42}} Yashovarman's reign marked the beginning of the famous Chandela-era art and architecture. He commissioned the [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}}<br />
<br />
Unlike the earlier Chandela inscriptions, the records of Yashovarman's successor [[Dhanga]] (r. c. 950–999 CE) do not mention any Pratihara overlord. This indicates that Dhanga formally established the Chandela sovereignty.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=57}} A Khajuraho inscription claims that the rulers of [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosala]], Kratha (part of [[Vidarbha]] region), [[Kuntala country|Kuntala]], and [[Sinhala Kingdom|Simhala]] listened humbly to the commands of Dhanga's officers. It also claims that the wives of the kings of [[Andhra Kingdom|Andhra]], [[Anga]], [[Kanchi Kingdom|Kanchi]] and [[Rarh region|Raḍha]] resided in his prisons as a result of his success in wars. These appear to be eulogistic exaggerations by a court poet, but suggest that Dhanga did undertake extensive military campaigns.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=56}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=61–65}} Like his predecessor, Dhanga also commissioned a magnificent temple at Khajuraho, which is identified as the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=69}}<br />
<br />
Dhanga's successor [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda]] appears to have retained the territory he inherited.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72}} His son [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] killed theking of [[Kannauj]] (possibly Rajyapala) for fleeing his capital instead of fighting the [[Ghaznavid]] invader [[Mahmud of Ghazni]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72–73}}{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=72}} Mahmud later invaded Vidyadhara's kingdom; according to the Muslim invaders, this conflict ended with Vidyadhara paying tribute to Mahmud.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=81–82}} Vidyadhara is noted for having commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=26}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela art and architecture reached its zenith during this period. The [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] (c. 930–950 CE), the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]] (c. 999–1002 CE) and the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] (c. 1030 CE) were constructed during the reigns of Yashovarman, Dhanga and Vidyadhara respectively. These [[Nagara architecture|Nagara-style]] temples are representative of the most fully developed style at Khajuraho.<ref name="James_1994">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LwcBVvdqyBkC&pg=PA234 |title=The Art and Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent |author=James C. Harle |publisher=Yale University Press |year=1994 |page=234 |isbn=0300062176 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Nagara-style temples of Khajuraho"><br />
India-5679 - Flickr - archer10 (Dennis).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]]<br />
File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638423582).jpg|[[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha Temple]]<br />
Vishwanath N-MP-23.jpg | [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]]<br />
A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg | [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
=== Decline ===<br />
[[File:Mahadeva Temple, Khajuraho.jpg|thumb|[[Surasundari]] and [[vyala]], [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
[[File:Le Temple Kandariya Mahadeva (Khajurâho) (8503001895).jpg|thumb|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple|Kandariya Mahadeva temple]] carvings.]]<br />
By the end of Vidyadhara's reign, the [[Ghaznavid]] invasions had weakened the Chandela kingdom. Taking advantage of this, the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]] conquered eastern parts of the kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=89–90}} Chandela inscriptions suggest that Vidyadhara's successor [[Vijayapala]] (r. c. 1035–1050 CE) defeated Gangeya in a battle.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=88}} However, the Chandela power started declining during the Vijayapala's reign.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=101}} The [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghatas]] of [[Gwalior]] probably gave up their allegiance to the Chandelas during this period.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=90}}<br />
<br />
Vijayapala's elder son [[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavavarman]] was subjugated by Gangeya's son [[Lakshmikarna|Lakshmi-Karna]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=91}} His younger brother [[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]] resurrected the Chandela power by defeating Lakshmi-Karna.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=94}} Kirtivarman's son [[Sallakshanavarman]] achieved military successes against the Paramaras and the Kalachuris, possibly by raiding their territories. A [[Mau, Uttar Pradesh|Mau]] inscription suggests that he also conducted successful campaigns in the Antarvedi region (the Ganga-Yamuna [[doab]]).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=120-121}} His son [[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]] was of religious temperament and abdicated the throne after being tired of governance.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=126}}<br />
<br />
Jayavarman appears to have died heirless, as he was succeeded by his uncle [[Prithvivarman]], the younger son of Kirttivarman.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=110–111}} The Chandela inscriptions do not ascribe any military achievements to him; it appears that he was focused on maintaining the existing Chandela territories without adopting an aggressive expansionist policy.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=111}}<br />
<br />
=== Revival ===<br />
<br />
By the time Prithvivarman's son [[Madanavarman]] (r. c. 1128–1165 CE) ascended the throne, the neighbouring [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] and [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] kingdoms had been weakened by enemy invasions. Taking advantage of this situation, Madanavarman defeated the Kalachuri king [[Gayakarna|Gaya-Karna]], and possibly annexed the northern part of the [[Baghelkhand]] region.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132}} However, the Chandelas lost this territory to Gaya-Karna's successor [[Narasimha (Kalachuri dynasty)|Narasimha]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}} Madanavarman also captured the territory on the western periphery of the Paramara kingdom, around [[Bhilsa]] (Vidisha). This probably happened during the reign of the Paramara king [[Yashovarman (Paramara dynasty)|Yashovarman]] or his son [[Jayavarman I (Paramara dynasty)|Jayavarman]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=130–132}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=112-113}} Once again, the Chandelas could not retain the newly annexed territory for long, and the region was recaptured by Yashovarman's son Lakshmivarman.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}}<br />
<br />
[[Jayasimha Siddharaja]], the [[Chaulukya]] king of Gujarat, also invaded the Paramara territory, which was located between the Chandela and the Chaulukya kingdoms. This brought him in conflict with Madanavarman. The result of this conflict appears to have been inconclusive, as records of both the kingdoms claim victory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=133}} A [[Kalanjara]] inscription suggests that Madanavarman defeated Jayasimha. On the other hand, the various chronicles of Gujarat claim that Jayasimha either defeated Madanavarman or extracted a tribute from him.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=133–134}} Madanavarman maintained friendly relations with his northern neighbours, the [[Gahadavala]]s.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132-133}}<br />
<br />
Madanavarman's son [[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]] either did not rule, or ruled for a very short time. Madanavarman's grandson [[Paramardi|Paramardi-deva]] was the last powerful Chandela king.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=130}}<br />
<br />
=== Final decline ===<br />
{{South Asia in 1175||Location of the Chandelas and neighbouring South Asian polities in 1175, on the eve of the [[Ghurid Empire]] invasion of the subcontinent.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=University of Chicago Press |location=Chicago |pages=37, 147|isbn=0226742210 |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/schwartzberg/pager.html?object=074}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Eaton |first1=Richard M. |title=India in the Persianate Age: 1000-1765 |date=25 July 2019 |publisher=Penguin UK |isbn=978-0-14-196655-7 |page=38 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aIF6DwAAQBAJ&pg=PP31 |language=en}}</ref>|{{Annotation|152|90|[[File:Orange dot (semi-transparent).png|35px]]}}}}<br />
[[Paramardi]] (reigned c. 1165-1203 CE) ascended the Chandela throne at a young age. While the early years of his reign were peaceful, around 1182–1183 CE, the [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari|Chahamana]] ruler [[Prithviraj Chauhan]] invaded the Chandela kingdom. According to the medieval legendary ballads, Prithviraj's army lost its way after a surprise attack by ([[Ghurid]]) [[Turkic peoples|Turkic]] forces, and unknowingly camped at the Chandela capital [[Mahoba]]. This led to a brief conflict between the Chandelas and the Chauhans, before Prithviraj left for Delhi. Sometime later, Prithviraj invaded the Chandela kingdom and sacked Mahoba. Paramardi cowardly took shelter in the [[Kalanjara]] fort. The Chandela force, led by [[Alha]], Udal [[banaphar]], rajputs, of Mahoba|Udal]] and other generals, was defeated in this battle. Nowadays [[ahir]], caste claims alha udal but according to historians and alha khand and mahoba khand they belongs to [[banaphar]], clan of [[rajput]], caste and their mother was of [[ahir]], which is why they are called of mixed origin.According to the various ballads, Paramardi either committed suicide out of shame or retired to [[Gaya, India|Gaya]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=120–123}}<br />
<br />
Prithviraj Chauhan's raid of Mahoba is corroborated by his [[Madanpur, Lalitpur, India|Madanpur]] stone inscriptions. However, there are several instances of historical inaccuracies in the bardic legends. For example, it is known that Paramardi did not retire or die immediately after the Chauhan victory. He restored the Chandela power, and ruled as a sovereign until around 1202–1203 CE, when [[Qutb al-Din Aibak]], the [[Ghurid Empire]] governor of [[Delhi]], invaded the Chandela kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=123–126}} According to ''Taj-ul-Maasir'', a chronicle of the [[Delhi Sultanate]], Paramardi surrendered to the Delhi forces. He promised to pay tribute to the Sultan, but died before he could keep this promise. His [[dewan]] offered some resistance to the invading forces, but was ultimately subdued. The 16th century historian [[Firishta]] states that Paramardi was assassinated by his own minister, who disagreed with the king's decision to surrender to the Delhi forces.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela power did not fully recover from their defeat against the Delhi forces. Paramardi was succeeded by [[Trailokyavarman]], [[Viravarman]] and [[Bhojavarman]]. The next ruler [[Hammiravarman]] (r. c. 1288–1311 CE) did not use the imperial title [[Maharajadhiraja]], which indicates that the Chandela king had a lower status by his time. The Chandela power continued to decline because of the rising Muslim influence, as well as the rise of other local dynasties, such as the [[Bundela]]s, the Baghelas and the [[Khangar (community)|Khangars]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=179}}<br />
<br />
Hammiravarman was succeeded by Viravarman II, whose titles do not indicate a high political status.{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}{{sfn|Om Prakash Misra|2003|p=11}} [[Chandelas of Kalanjara (minor Chandela branch)|One minor branch of the family continued ruling Kalanjara]]: its ruler was killed by [[Sher Shah Suri]]'s army in 1545 CE. Another minor branch ruled at [[Mahoba]]: [[Rani Durgavati|Durgavati]], one of its princesses married into the [[Garha Kingdom|Gond]] royal family of [[Mandla]]. Some other ruling families also claimed Chandela descent (see [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]]).{{sfn|Romila Thapar|2013|p=572}}<br />
<br />
== Art and architecture ==<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture. They commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at various places. The most famous example of their cultural achievements are the Hindu and Jain temples at [[Khajuraho]]. Three other important Chandela strongholds were Jayapura-Durga (modern [[Ajaigarh]]), Kalanjara (modern [[Kalinjar]]) and Mahotsava-Nagara (modern [[Mahoba]]).{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela architecture"><br />
Khajuraho Dulhadeo 2010.jpg | Dulhadeo temple, Khajuraho<br />
0B Ajaigarh 4 sides temple.jpg | Ajaigarh temple<br />
Yajna mandap in kulpahar.jpg | A [[yajna]] [[mandapa]] at [[Kulpahar]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
Other smaller Chandela sites include Chandpur, [[Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh|Deogarh]], Dudahi, [[Kakadeo]], Madanpur and [[Aharji Jain Teerth|Aharji]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<ref>{{cite book |last1=Titze |first1=Kurt |last2=Bruhn|first2=Klaus |title=Jainism: A Pictorial Guide to the Religion of Non-Violence |url={{Google books|loQkEIf8z5wC|page=123|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=[[Motilal Banarsidass]] |edition=2 |year=1998 |isbn=978-81-208-1534-6 | page=128 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Reddy |first=P. Chenny | author-link=P. Chenna Reddy |title=Kalyana Mitra: A treasure house of history, culture and archaeological studies | volume=5 |url={{Google books|prCqEAAAQBAJ|page=197|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=Blue Rose Publishers |year=2023 |isbn=978-93-5741-111-0 | page=197 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela sculptures"><br />
Brahma and his consort.jpg | Brahma and his consort, Khajuraho<br />
Ajaygarh Alians ship.jpg | Stone carving, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Neel Swarshwati.jpg | Jain [[tirthankara]]s and [[Sarasvati]], Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh seven heavens of Jain.jpg | Jain heavens, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Shramanas Egyptian style rock cut.jpg | Jain [[shramana]]s, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh treasure sign.jpg | Cattle with treasure sign, Ajaigarh<br />
35. Khajuraho Visvanath apsara.jpg | [[Surasundari]] [[Apsara]], Khajuraho<br />
Khajuraho 126.jpg | Dancing Ganesha, Khajuraho<br />
<br />
Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638393390).jpg | [[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha temple]] carvings<br />
Le Temple de Lakshmana (Khajurâho) (8498182643).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana temple]] carvings<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== List of Rulers==<br />
<br />
Based on epigraphic records, the historians have come up with the following list of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti ([[IAST]] names in brackets):{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=25}}{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=25}}{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+List of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti<br />
! S.N.<br />
! Ruler's regional name ([[IAST]] name in bracket)<br />
! Reign (CE)<br />
|-<br />
|1<br />
|[[Nannuka]]<br />
|831–845<br />
|-<br />
|2<br />
|[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] (Vākpati)<br />
|845–865<br />
|-<br />
|3<br />
|[[Jayashakti]] (Jayaśakti) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vijayaśakti)<br />
|865–885<br />
|-<br />
|4<br />
|[[Rahila]] (Rāhila)<br />
|885–905<br />
|-<br />
|5<br />
|[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Shri Harsha]] (Śri Harśa)<br />
|905–925<br />
|-<br />
|6<br />
|[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman]] (Yaśovarman)<br />
|925–950<br />
|-<br />
|7<br />
|[[Dhangavarman]] <br />
|950–999<br />
|-<br />
|8<br />
|[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda-Deva]] (Gaṇḍadeva)<br />
|999–1002<br />
|-<br />
|9<br />
|[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] (Vidyādhara)<br />
|1003–1035<br />
|-<br />
|10<br />
|[[Vijayapala|Vijaya-Pala]] (Vijayapāla)<br />
|1035–1050<br />
|-<br />
|11<br />
|[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Deva-Varman]]<br />
|1050–1060<br />
|-<br />
|12<br />
|[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirtti-Varman]] (Kīrtivarman)<br />
|1060–1100<br />
|-<br />
|13<br />
|[[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (Sallakṣaṇavarman)<br />
|1100–1110<br />
|-<br />
|14<br />
|[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jaya-Varman]]<br />
|1110–1120<br />
|-<br />
|15<br />
|[[Prithvivarman|Prithvi-Varman]] (Pṛthvīvarman)<br />
|1120–1128<br />
|-<br />
|16<br />
|[[Madanavarman|Madana-Varman]]<br />
|1128–1164<br />
|-<br />
|17<br />
|[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman II]]<br />
|1164–1165<br />
|-<br />
|18<br />
|[[Paramardideva|Paramardi-Deva]]<br />
|1165–1203<br />
|-<br />
|19<br />
|[[Trailokyavarman|Trailokya-Varman]]<br />
|1203–1245<br />
|-<br />
|20<br />
|[[Viravarman|Vira-Varman]] (Vīravarman)<br />
|1245–1285<br />
|-<br />
|21<br />
|[[Bhojavarman|Bhoja-Varman]]<br />
|1285–1288<br />
|-<br />
|22<br />
|[[Hammiravarman|Hammira-Varman]] (Hammīravarman)<br />
|1288–1311<br />
|-<br />
|23<br />
|Vira-Varman II<br />
|1311–1315<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Family tree ==<br />
<br />
{{Chart top|width=100%|collapsed=yes|Chandela dynasty}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart/start|align=center|style=font-size:90%}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Nannuka]]'''<br><sup>(1)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 831-845</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]]'''<br><sup>(2)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 845-865</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(3)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Vijayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(4)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Rahila]]'''<br><sup>(5)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 885-905</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]]'''<br><sup>(6)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 905-925</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman I]]'''<br><sup>(7)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 925-950</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Dhanga]]deva'''<br><sup>(8)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 950-999</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandadeva]]'''<br><sup>(9)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 999-1002</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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A01='''[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]]'''<br><sup>(10)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1003-1035</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vijayapala]]'''<br><sup>(11)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1035-1050</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavarman]]'''<br><sup>(12)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1050-1060</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]]'''<br><sup>(13)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1060-1100</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Sallakshanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(14)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1100-1110</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Prithvivarman]]'''<br><sup>(16)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1120-1128</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]]'''<br><sup>(15)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1110-1120</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Madanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(17)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1128-1165</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]]'''<br><sup>(18)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Paramardi]]'''<br><sup>(19)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165-1203</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Viravarman]]'''<br><sup>(21)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1245-1285</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03=Child of<br>Yashovarman}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Trailokyavarman]]'''<br><sup>(20)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1203–1245</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Hammiravarman]]'''<br><sup>(23)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1288-1311</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03='''[[Bhojavarman]]'''<br><sup>(22)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1285-1288</small>|boxstyle_A03=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Chart bottom}}<br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[History of Madhya Pradesh]]<br />
* [[Chandel (Rajput clan)]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kalanjara]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kumaun]]<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Harihar Vitthal Trivedi |title=Inscriptions of the Paramāras (Part 2) |series=Corpus Inscriptionum Indicarum Volume VII: Inscriptions of the Paramāras, Chandēllas, Kachchapaghātas, and two minor dynasties |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8B4LAQAAMAAJ |year=1991 |publisher=[[Archaeological Survey of India]] }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Om Prakash Misra |title=Archaeological Excavations in Central India: Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=o0ISjDDWJwQC&pg=PA11 |year=2003 |publisher=Mittal Publications |isbn=978-81-7099-874-7 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Peter Jackson |author-link=Peter Jackson (historian) |title=The Delhi Sultanate: A Political and Military History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=lt2tqOpVRKgC&pg=PA199 |year=2003 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-0-521-54329-3 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=R. K. Dikshit |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130 |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Romila Thapar |author-link=Romila Thapar |title=The Past Before Us |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aei9AAAAQBAJ&pg=PA571 |year=2013 |publisher=Harvard University Press |isbn=978-0-674-72651-2 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sisirkumar Mitra |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA113 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sushil Kumar Sullerey |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{refend}}<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
* {{commons category-inline|Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti| ]]<br />
[[Category:Medieval Indian dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Hindu dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Bundelkhand]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:9th-century establishments in India]]<br />
[[Category:14th-century disestablishments in India]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chandel_Empire&diff=562218Chandel Empire2026-09-16T08:19:43Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Late medieval Hindu dynasty of India (800-16th c.)}}<br />
{{pp-extended|small=yes}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=March 2013}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2022}}<br />
{{Infobox country<br />
|conventional_long_name = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
|common_name = Chandela<br />
|era = [[Medieval India]]<br />
|government_type = Monarchy<br />
|year_start = {{Circa|early 9th c.}}<br />
|year_end = 16th c.<br />
|p1 = Kalachuris of Tripuri<br />
| s1 = Mamluk dynasty (Delhi)<br />
| s2 = Mughal Empire <br />
|image_map = Map of the Candellas.png<br />
|image_map_caption = Territory of the Chandelas during the reign of [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] circa 1025 CE.<ref name="JS">{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical Atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=Oxford University Press, Digital South Asia Library|author-link=Joseph E. Schwartzberg |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/cgi-bin/reference/schwartzberg/query.py?display_type=image_display&object=183#gsc.tab=0|page=146, Map "j"}}</ref><br />
|map_width = 300px<br />
|capital = {{ubl|[[Khajuraho]]|[[Kalanjara]]|[[Mahoba]]}}<br />
|common_languages = [[Sanskrit]]<br />
|religion = {{ubl|[[Hinduism]]|[[Jainism]]}}<br />
|today = [[India]]<br />
| image_coat = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti. Sallakshana Varman. Circa 1120-1135 CE.jpg<br />
| coa_size = 280px<br />
| symbol_type = Coinage of [[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (1120–1135 CE), Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
}}<br />
<br />
The '''Chandel Empire''' ([[Sanskrit]]: चन्देल साम्राज्य, [[IAST]]: Çandela empire) was an [[Indian]] empire during the [[medieval India|medieval period]] of the Indian subcontinent which existed from the 9th century to the 16th century CE. At its peak, the dynasty ruled over an empire that spanned much of the northern Indian subcontinent, with its country called [[Jejakabhukti (Chandela country)|Jejakabhukti]]. The ruling dynasty of the empire was founded by the Chandela ruler [[Nannukavarman]], who established [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]] in the early 9th century. The dynasty belonged to the [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]] clan of the [[Rajput|Rajputs]].<ref>*{{Cite book |author=Upinder Singh|author-link=Upinder Singh|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7DRuAAAAMAAJ |title=The Discovery of Ancient India: Early Archaeologists and the Beginnings of Archaeology |date=2004 |publisher=Permanent Black |isbn=978-81-7824-088-6|page=73|quote=Discussion of the histories of various Rajput clans, such as the Chauhans, Kachhvahas, Chandelas, Pratiharas and Tomaras on the basis of a wide range of sources-literary, epigraphic, numismatic, bardic accounts and local traditions|language=en}}<br />
*{{Cite book|last1=Kulke|first1=Hermann|author-link1=Hermann Kulke|last2=Rothermund|first2=Dietmar |author-link2=Dietmar Rothermund|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TPVq3ykHyH4C|title=A History of India|date=2004|publisher=Psychology Press|isbn=978-0-415-32919-4|language=en|page=117|quote="When Gurjara Pratiharas power declined after the sacking of Kannauj by the Rashtrakutas in the early tenth century many Rajput princes declared their independence and founded their own kingdoms, some of which grew to importance in the subsequent two centuries. The better known among those dynasties were the Chaulukyas or Solankis of Gujarat and Kathiawar, the Chahamanas (i.e. Chauhans) of eastern Rajasthan (Ajmer and Jodhpur) and the Tomaras who had founded Delhi (Dhillika) in 736 but had been displaced by the Chauhans in the twelfth century. Rajput descent was also claimed by the Chandelas of Khujuraho and the Kalachuris of Tripuri"}}<br />
*{{Cite book |author=Romila Thapar|author-link=Romila Thapar|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=i6cwDwAAQBAJ |title=Early India: From the Origins to AD 1300 |date=2004|publisher=University of California Press |isbn=978-0-520-24225-8 |page=420|quote=Other claiming to be Rajputs and descended from the solar and lunar lines, established themselves as local kings in various parts of western and central India. Among them were the Chandellas, prominent in the tenth century in Bundelkhand with their centre at Khajuraho and their territory known as Jejakabhukti|language=en}}<br />
*{{harvnb|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=8}}: "The Candellas are undoubtedly a Rajput clan and the epigraphic evidences does not show that any inferiority was applied to them in the past. It reveals their matrimonial relationship with important Rajput families from the very beginning of their history"</ref><br />
<br />
The Chandelas initially ruled as feudatories of the [[Gurjara-Pratihara]]s of [[Kanyakubja]] (Kannauj). The 10th century Chandela ruler Harshavarman became the indipendent chandela king, he defeated Rashtrakuta Empire, recrowned pratihara ruler mahipala, while his son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] defeated Pratihara empire. y the time of his successor [[Dhangavarman (Chandel emperor)|Dhanga]], the Chandelas had become a sovereign power. Their power rose and declined as they fought battles with the neighbouring dynasties, especially the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]]s of [[Malwa]] and the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]. From the 11th century onwards, they faced raids by the northern Muslim dynasties, including the [[Ghaznavid]]s and the [[Ghurid]]s. The Chandela power effectively ended around the beginning of the 13th century, following selhiiSultanate ons.<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture, most notably for the temples at their original capital [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]]. They also commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at other places, including their strongholds of [[Ajaigarh]], [[Kalinjar]] and their later capital [[Mahoba]].<br />
<br />
== Origin ==<br />
The origin of the Chandelas is obscured by mythical legends. The epigraphic records of the dynasty, as well as contemporary texts such as ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' and ''Prabodha-chandrodaya'', suggest that the Chandelas belonged to the legendary [[Lunar dynasty]] (''Chandravansha'').{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} A 954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription states that the dynasty's first king [[Nannuka]] was a descendant of sage Chandratreya, who was a son of [[Atri]]. A 1002 CE Khajuraho inscription gives a slightly different account, in which Chandratreya is mentioned as a son of Indu (the Moon) and a grandson of Atri.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} The 1195 CE Baghari inscription and the 1260 CE Ajaygadh inscription contain similar accounts.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=5}} The ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' also names [[Atri]] among the ancestors of the Chandelas. Another Khajuraho inscription describes the Chandela king [[Dhanga]] as a member of the [[Vrishni]] clan of the [[Yadavas]] (who also claimed to be part of the Lunar dynasty).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}}<br />
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[[File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638391942).jpg |thumb|left|upright|Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
The ''Mahoba-Khanda'' legend of the dynasty's origin goes like this: Hemaraja, a priest of the [[Gahadavala|Gaharwar]] king of [[Varanasi|Benares]], had a beautiful daughter named Hemavati. Once, while Hemavati was bathing in a pond, the moon god [[Chandra]] saw her and made love to her. Hemavati was worried about the dishonour of being an unwed mother, but Chandra assured her that their son would become a great king. This child was the dynasty's progenitor Chandravarma. Chandra presented him with a [[philosopher's stone]] and taught him politics.<ref name="Asopa1976">{{cite book |author=Jai Narayan Asopa |title=Origin of the Rajputs |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=I_KznQEACAAJ |year=1976 |publisher=Bharatiya Publishing House |page=208}}</ref>{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} The dynasty's own records do not mention Hemavati, Hemaraja or Indrajit. Such legends appear to be later bardic inventions. In general, the ''Mahoba-Khanda'' is a historically unreliable text.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} ''Prithviraj Raso'' is also considered an historically unreliable text.<ref>{{cite book | editor=K Ayyappap Panikkar | title=Medieval Indian literature: an anthology (Volume 1) | author = Vijayendra Snatak | chapter = Medieval Hindi Literature | chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KYLpvaKJIMEC&pg=PA142 |year=1997 | publisher=Sahitya Akademi | isbn=978-81-260-0365-5 | page=142}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Serving empire, serving nation: James Tod and the Rajputs of Rajasthan |first=Jason |last=Freitag |publisher=BRILL |year=2009 |isbn=978-90-04-17594-5 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ib93BhAu43gC |pages=3–5}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=R. V. Somani |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NcIBAAAAMAAJ |title=History of Mewar, from Earliest Times to 1751 A.D. |publisher=Mateshwari |year=1976 |oclc=2929852 |page= 30}}</ref><br />
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[[File:Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh.jpg|thumb|Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh. [[Metropolitan Museum of Art]].]]<br />
British indologist [[Vincent Arthur Smith|V. A. Smith]] theorized that the Chandelas were of either [[Bhar]] or [[Gondi people|Gond]] origin. Some other scholars including [[R. C. Majumdar]] also supported this theory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=6}} The Chandelas worshipped Maniya, a tribal goddess, whose temples are located at Mahoba and Maniyagadh.<ref name="Ali_2008">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iXVNBAAAQBAJ&pg=PA44 |title=World Heritage Monuments and Related Edifices in India |volume=1 |author=Ali Javid and Tabassum Javeed |publisher=Algora |year=2008 |isbn=9780875864822 |page=44 }}</ref> Besides, they have been associated with places that are also associated with Bhars and Gonds. Also, [[Rani Durgavati]], whose family claimed Chandela descent married a Gond chief of [[Mandla|Garha-Mandla]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Historian R. K. Dikshit does not find these arguments convincing: he argues that Maniya was not a tribal deity.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}} Also, the dynasty's association with Gond territory is not necessarily indicative of a common descent: the dynasty's progenitor may have been posted as a governor in these territories.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Finally, Durgavati's marriage to a Gond chief can be dismissed as a one-off case.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}}<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
<br />
=== Early rulers ===<br />
<br />
The Chandelas were originally vassals of the [[Gurjara-Pratiharas]].<ref>Radhey Shyam Chaurasia, History of Ancient India: Earliest Times to 1000 A. D.</ref> [[Nannuka]] (r. {{Circa|831}}–845 CE), the founder of the dynasty, was the ruler of a small kingdom centered around [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]].<ref>{{cite book |author=Sailendra Sen |title=A Textbook of Medieval Indian History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UdW6lAEACAAJ |year=2013 |publisher=Primus |isbn=978-93-80607-34-4 |page=22}}</ref><br />
<br />
According to the Chandela inscriptions, Nannuka's successor [[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] defeated several enemies.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=27-28}} Vakpati's sons [[Jayashakti]] (Jeja) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vija) consolidated the Chandela power.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=30}} According to a [[Mahoba]] inscription, the Chandela territory was named "Jejakabhukti" after the Jayashakti.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=28}} Vijayashakti's successor [[Rahila]] is credited with several military victories in eulogistic inscriptions.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=30–31}} Rahila's son [[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]] played an important role in restoring the rule of the Pratihara king [[Mahipala I|Mahipala]], possibly after a [[Rashtrakuta]] invasion or after Mahiapala's conflict with his step-brother [[Bhoja II (Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty)|Bhoja II]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=32–35}}<br />
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=== Rise as a sovereign power ===<br />
[[File:Kirtivarman Chandela visits the temple of Khajurahu.jpg|thumb|A 20th century artist's imagination of Kirtivarman Chandela visiting a [[Khajuraho]] temple]]<br />
Harsha's son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] (r. c. 925–950 CE) continued to acknowledge the Pratihara suzerainty, but became practically independent.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=36–37}} He conquered the important fortress of [[Kalanjara]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}} A 953–954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription credits him with several other military successes, including against [[Gauḍa (region)|Gaudas]] (identified with the [[Pala Empire|Palas]]), the [[Khasas]], the [[Chedi Kingdom|Chedis]] (the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]), the [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosalas]] (possibly the [[Somavaṃśī dynasty|Somavamshis]]), the [[Mithila (ancient)|Mithila]] (possibly a small tributary ruler), [[Malwa|Malavas]] (identified with the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramaras]]), the [[Kuru Kingdom|Kurus]], the [[Kasmira Kingdom|Kashmiris]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=42-51}} These claims appear to be exaggerated, as similar claims of extensive conquests in northern India are also found in the records of the other contemporary kings such as the Kalachuri king Yuva-Raja and the Rashtrakuta king [[Krishna III]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=42}} Yashovarman's reign marked the beginning of the famous Chandela-era art and architecture. He commissioned the [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}}<br />
<br />
Unlike the earlier Chandela inscriptions, the records of Yashovarman's successor [[Dhanga]] (r. c. 950–999 CE) do not mention any Pratihara overlord. This indicates that Dhanga formally established the Chandela sovereignty.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=57}} A Khajuraho inscription claims that the rulers of [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosala]], Kratha (part of [[Vidarbha]] region), [[Kuntala country|Kuntala]], and [[Sinhala Kingdom|Simhala]] listened humbly to the commands of Dhanga's officers. It also claims that the wives of the kings of [[Andhra Kingdom|Andhra]], [[Anga]], [[Kanchi Kingdom|Kanchi]] and [[Rarh region|Raḍha]] resided in his prisons as a result of his success in wars. These appear to be eulogistic exaggerations by a court poet, but suggest that Dhanga did undertake extensive military campaigns.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=56}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=61–65}} Like his predecessor, Dhanga also commissioned a magnificent temple at Khajuraho, which is identified as the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=69}}<br />
<br />
Dhanga's successor [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda]] appears to have retained the territory he inherited.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72}} His son [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] killed theking of [[Kannauj]] (possibly Rajyapala) for fleeing his capital instead of fighting the [[Ghaznavid]] invader [[Mahmud of Ghazni]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72–73}}{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=72}} Mahmud later invaded Vidyadhara's kingdom; according to the Muslim invaders, this conflict ended with Vidyadhara paying tribute to Mahmud.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=81–82}} Vidyadhara is noted for having commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=26}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela art and architecture reached its zenith during this period. The [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] (c. 930–950 CE), the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]] (c. 999–1002 CE) and the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] (c. 1030 CE) were constructed during the reigns of Yashovarman, Dhanga and Vidyadhara respectively. These [[Nagara architecture|Nagara-style]] temples are representative of the most fully developed style at Khajuraho.<ref name="James_1994">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LwcBVvdqyBkC&pg=PA234 |title=The Art and Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent |author=James C. Harle |publisher=Yale University Press |year=1994 |page=234 |isbn=0300062176 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Nagara-style temples of Khajuraho"><br />
India-5679 - Flickr - archer10 (Dennis).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]]<br />
File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638423582).jpg|[[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha Temple]]<br />
Vishwanath N-MP-23.jpg | [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]]<br />
A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg | [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
=== Decline ===<br />
[[File:Mahadeva Temple, Khajuraho.jpg|thumb|[[Surasundari]] and [[vyala]], [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
[[File:Le Temple Kandariya Mahadeva (Khajurâho) (8503001895).jpg|thumb|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple|Kandariya Mahadeva temple]] carvings.]]<br />
By the end of Vidyadhara's reign, the [[Ghaznavid]] invasions had weakened the Chandela kingdom. Taking advantage of this, the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]] conquered eastern parts of the kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=89–90}} Chandela inscriptions suggest that Vidyadhara's successor [[Vijayapala]] (r. c. 1035–1050 CE) defeated Gangeya in a battle.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=88}} However, the Chandela power started declining during the Vijayapala's reign.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=101}} The [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghatas]] of [[Gwalior]] probably gave up their allegiance to the Chandelas during this period.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=90}}<br />
<br />
Vijayapala's elder son [[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavavarman]] was subjugated by Gangeya's son [[Lakshmikarna|Lakshmi-Karna]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=91}} His younger brother [[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]] resurrected the Chandela power by defeating Lakshmi-Karna.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=94}} Kirtivarman's son [[Sallakshanavarman]] achieved military successes against the Paramaras and the Kalachuris, possibly by raiding their territories. A [[Mau, Uttar Pradesh|Mau]] inscription suggests that he also conducted successful campaigns in the Antarvedi region (the Ganga-Yamuna [[doab]]).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=120-121}} His son [[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]] was of religious temperament and abdicated the throne after being tired of governance.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=126}}<br />
<br />
Jayavarman appears to have died heirless, as he was succeeded by his uncle [[Prithvivarman]], the younger son of Kirttivarman.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=110–111}} The Chandela inscriptions do not ascribe any military achievements to him; it appears that he was focused on maintaining the existing Chandela territories without adopting an aggressive expansionist policy.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=111}}<br />
<br />
=== Revival ===<br />
<br />
By the time Prithvivarman's son [[Madanavarman]] (r. c. 1128–1165 CE) ascended the throne, the neighbouring [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] and [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] kingdoms had been weakened by enemy invasions. Taking advantage of this situation, Madanavarman defeated the Kalachuri king [[Gayakarna|Gaya-Karna]], and possibly annexed the northern part of the [[Baghelkhand]] region.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132}} However, the Chandelas lost this territory to Gaya-Karna's successor [[Narasimha (Kalachuri dynasty)|Narasimha]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}} Madanavarman also captured the territory on the western periphery of the Paramara kingdom, around [[Bhilsa]] (Vidisha). This probably happened during the reign of the Paramara king [[Yashovarman (Paramara dynasty)|Yashovarman]] or his son [[Jayavarman I (Paramara dynasty)|Jayavarman]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=130–132}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=112-113}} Once again, the Chandelas could not retain the newly annexed territory for long, and the region was recaptured by Yashovarman's son Lakshmivarman.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}}<br />
<br />
[[Jayasimha Siddharaja]], the [[Chaulukya]] king of Gujarat, also invaded the Paramara territory, which was located between the Chandela and the Chaulukya kingdoms. This brought him in conflict with Madanavarman. The result of this conflict appears to have been inconclusive, as records of both the kingdoms claim victory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=133}} A [[Kalanjara]] inscription suggests that Madanavarman defeated Jayasimha. On the other hand, the various chronicles of Gujarat claim that Jayasimha either defeated Madanavarman or extracted a tribute from him.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=133–134}} Madanavarman maintained friendly relations with his northern neighbours, the [[Gahadavala]]s.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132-133}}<br />
<br />
Madanavarman's son [[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]] either did not rule, or ruled for a very short time. Madanavarman's grandson [[Paramardi|Paramardi-deva]] was the last powerful Chandela king.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=130}}<br />
<br />
=== Final decline ===<br />
{{South Asia in 1175||Location of the Chandelas and neighbouring South Asian polities in 1175, on the eve of the [[Ghurid Empire]] invasion of the subcontinent.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=University of Chicago Press |location=Chicago |pages=37, 147|isbn=0226742210 |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/schwartzberg/pager.html?object=074}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Eaton |first1=Richard M. |title=India in the Persianate Age: 1000-1765 |date=25 July 2019 |publisher=Penguin UK |isbn=978-0-14-196655-7 |page=38 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aIF6DwAAQBAJ&pg=PP31 |language=en}}</ref>|{{Annotation|152|90|[[File:Orange dot (semi-transparent).png|35px]]}}}}<br />
[[Paramardi]] (reigned c. 1165-1203 CE) ascended the Chandela throne at a young age. While the early years of his reign were peaceful, around 1182–1183 CE, the [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari|Chahamana]] ruler [[Prithviraj Chauhan]] invaded the Chandela kingdom. According to the medieval legendary ballads, Prithviraj's army lost its way after a surprise attack by ([[Ghurid]]) [[Turkic peoples|Turkic]] forces, and unknowingly camped at the Chandela capital [[Mahoba]]. This led to a brief conflict between the Chandelas and the Chauhans, before Prithviraj left for Delhi. Sometime later, Prithviraj invaded the Chandela kingdom and sacked Mahoba. Paramardi cowardly took shelter in the [[Kalanjara]] fort. The Chandela force, led by [[Alha]], Udal [[banaphar]], rajputs, of Mahoba|Udal]] and other generals, was defeated in this battle. Nowadays [[ahir]], caste claims alha udal but according to historians and alha khand and mahoba khand they belongs to [[banaphar]], clan of [[rajput]], caste and their mother was of [[ahir]], which is why they are called of mixed origin.According to the various ballads, Paramardi either committed suicide out of shame or retired to [[Gaya, India|Gaya]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=120–123}}<br />
<br />
Prithviraj Chauhan's raid of Mahoba is corroborated by his [[Madanpur, Lalitpur, India|Madanpur]] stone inscriptions. However, there are several instances of historical inaccuracies in the bardic legends. For example, it is known that Paramardi did not retire or die immediately after the Chauhan victory. He restored the Chandela power, and ruled as a sovereign until around 1202–1203 CE, when [[Qutb al-Din Aibak]], the [[Ghurid Empire]] governor of [[Delhi]], invaded the Chandela kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=123–126}} According to ''Taj-ul-Maasir'', a chronicle of the [[Delhi Sultanate]], Paramardi surrendered to the Delhi forces. He promised to pay tribute to the Sultan, but died before he could keep this promise. His [[dewan]] offered some resistance to the invading forces, but was ultimately subdued. The 16th century historian [[Firishta]] states that Paramardi was assassinated by his own minister, who disagreed with the king's decision to surrender to the Delhi forces.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela power did not fully recover from their defeat against the Delhi forces. Paramardi was succeeded by [[Trailokyavarman]], [[Viravarman]] and [[Bhojavarman]]. The next ruler [[Hammiravarman]] (r. c. 1288–1311 CE) did not use the imperial title [[Maharajadhiraja]], which indicates that the Chandela king had a lower status by his time. The Chandela power continued to decline because of the rising Muslim influence, as well as the rise of other local dynasties, such as the [[Bundela]]s, the Baghelas and the [[Khangar (community)|Khangars]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=179}}<br />
<br />
Hammiravarman was succeeded by Viravarman II, whose titles do not indicate a high political status.{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}{{sfn|Om Prakash Misra|2003|p=11}} [[Chandelas of Kalanjara (minor Chandela branch)|One minor branch of the family continued ruling Kalanjara]]: its ruler was killed by [[Sher Shah Suri]]'s army in 1545 CE. Another minor branch ruled at [[Mahoba]]: [[Rani Durgavati|Durgavati]], one of its princesses married into the [[Garha Kingdom|Gond]] royal family of [[Mandla]]. Some other ruling families also claimed Chandela descent (see [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]]).{{sfn|Romila Thapar|2013|p=572}}<br />
<br />
== Art and architecture ==<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture. They commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at various places. The most famous example of their cultural achievements are the Hindu and Jain temples at [[Khajuraho]]. Three other important Chandela strongholds were Jayapura-Durga (modern [[Ajaigarh]]), Kalanjara (modern [[Kalinjar]]) and Mahotsava-Nagara (modern [[Mahoba]]).{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela architecture"><br />
Khajuraho Dulhadeo 2010.jpg | Dulhadeo temple, Khajuraho<br />
0B Ajaigarh 4 sides temple.jpg | Ajaigarh temple<br />
Yajna mandap in kulpahar.jpg | A [[yajna]] [[mandapa]] at [[Kulpahar]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
Other smaller Chandela sites include Chandpur, [[Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh|Deogarh]], Dudahi, [[Kakadeo]], Madanpur and [[Aharji Jain Teerth|Aharji]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<ref>{{cite book |last1=Titze |first1=Kurt |last2=Bruhn|first2=Klaus |title=Jainism: A Pictorial Guide to the Religion of Non-Violence |url={{Google books|loQkEIf8z5wC|page=123|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=[[Motilal Banarsidass]] |edition=2 |year=1998 |isbn=978-81-208-1534-6 | page=128 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Reddy |first=P. Chenny | author-link=P. Chenna Reddy |title=Kalyana Mitra: A treasure house of history, culture and archaeological studies | volume=5 |url={{Google books|prCqEAAAQBAJ|page=197|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=Blue Rose Publishers |year=2023 |isbn=978-93-5741-111-0 | page=197 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela sculptures"><br />
Brahma and his consort.jpg | Brahma and his consort, Khajuraho<br />
Ajaygarh Alians ship.jpg | Stone carving, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Neel Swarshwati.jpg | Jain [[tirthankara]]s and [[Sarasvati]], Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh seven heavens of Jain.jpg | Jain heavens, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Shramanas Egyptian style rock cut.jpg | Jain [[shramana]]s, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh treasure sign.jpg | Cattle with treasure sign, Ajaigarh<br />
35. Khajuraho Visvanath apsara.jpg | [[Surasundari]] [[Apsara]], Khajuraho<br />
Khajuraho 126.jpg | Dancing Ganesha, Khajuraho<br />
<br />
Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638393390).jpg | [[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha temple]] carvings<br />
Le Temple de Lakshmana (Khajurâho) (8498182643).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana temple]] carvings<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== List of Rulers==<br />
<br />
Based on epigraphic records, the historians have come up with the following list of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti ([[IAST]] names in brackets):{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=25}}{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=25}}{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+List of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti<br />
! S.N.<br />
! Ruler's regional name ([[IAST]] name in bracket)<br />
! Reign (CE)<br />
|-<br />
|1<br />
|[[Nannuka]]<br />
|831–845<br />
|-<br />
|2<br />
|[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] (Vākpati)<br />
|845–865<br />
|-<br />
|3<br />
|[[Jayashakti]] (Jayaśakti) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vijayaśakti)<br />
|865–885<br />
|-<br />
|4<br />
|[[Rahila]] (Rāhila)<br />
|885–905<br />
|-<br />
|5<br />
|[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Shri Harsha]] (Śri Harśa)<br />
|905–925<br />
|-<br />
|6<br />
|[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman]] (Yaśovarman)<br />
|925–950<br />
|-<br />
|7<br />
|[[Dhangavarman]] <br />
|950–999<br />
|-<br />
|8<br />
|[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda-Deva]] (Gaṇḍadeva)<br />
|999–1002<br />
|-<br />
|9<br />
|[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] (Vidyādhara)<br />
|1003–1035<br />
|-<br />
|10<br />
|[[Vijayapala|Vijaya-Pala]] (Vijayapāla)<br />
|1035–1050<br />
|-<br />
|11<br />
|[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Deva-Varman]]<br />
|1050–1060<br />
|-<br />
|12<br />
|[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirtti-Varman]] (Kīrtivarman)<br />
|1060–1100<br />
|-<br />
|13<br />
|[[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (Sallakṣaṇavarman)<br />
|1100–1110<br />
|-<br />
|14<br />
|[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jaya-Varman]]<br />
|1110–1120<br />
|-<br />
|15<br />
|[[Prithvivarman|Prithvi-Varman]] (Pṛthvīvarman)<br />
|1120–1128<br />
|-<br />
|16<br />
|[[Madanavarman|Madana-Varman]]<br />
|1128–1164<br />
|-<br />
|17<br />
|[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman II]]<br />
|1164–1165<br />
|-<br />
|18<br />
|[[Paramardideva|Paramardi-Deva]]<br />
|1165–1203<br />
|-<br />
|19<br />
|[[Trailokyavarman|Trailokya-Varman]]<br />
|1203–1245<br />
|-<br />
|20<br />
|[[Viravarman|Vira-Varman]] (Vīravarman)<br />
|1245–1285<br />
|-<br />
|21<br />
|[[Bhojavarman|Bhoja-Varman]]<br />
|1285–1288<br />
|-<br />
|22<br />
|[[Hammiravarman|Hammira-Varman]] (Hammīravarman)<br />
|1288–1311<br />
|-<br />
|23<br />
|Vira-Varman II<br />
|1311–1315<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Family tree ==<br />
<br />
{{Chart top|width=100%|collapsed=yes|Chandela dynasty}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart/start|align=center|style=font-size:90%}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Nannuka]]'''<br><sup>(1)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 831-845</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]]'''<br><sup>(2)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 845-865</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(3)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Vijayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(4)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Rahila]]'''<br><sup>(5)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 885-905</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]]'''<br><sup>(6)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 905-925</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman I]]'''<br><sup>(7)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 925-950</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Dhanga]]deva'''<br><sup>(8)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 950-999</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandadeva]]'''<br><sup>(9)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 999-1002</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]]'''<br><sup>(10)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1003-1035</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vijayapala]]'''<br><sup>(11)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1035-1050</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavarman]]'''<br><sup>(12)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1050-1060</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]]'''<br><sup>(13)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1060-1100</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Sallakshanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(14)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1100-1110</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Prithvivarman]]'''<br><sup>(16)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1120-1128</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]]'''<br><sup>(15)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1110-1120</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Madanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(17)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1128-1165</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]]'''<br><sup>(18)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|+|-|-|-|.| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Paramardi]]'''<br><sup>(19)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165-1203</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Viravarman]]'''<br><sup>(21)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1245-1285</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03=Child of<br>Yashovarman}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Trailokyavarman]]'''<br><sup>(20)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1203–1245</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Hammiravarman]]'''<br><sup>(23)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1288-1311</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03='''[[Bhojavarman]]'''<br><sup>(22)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1285-1288</small>|boxstyle_A03=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart/end}}<br />
<br />
{{Chart bottom}}<br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[History of Madhya Pradesh]]<br />
* [[Chandel (Rajput clan)]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kalanjara]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kumaun]]<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Harihar Vitthal Trivedi |title=Inscriptions of the Paramāras (Part 2) |series=Corpus Inscriptionum Indicarum Volume VII: Inscriptions of the Paramāras, Chandēllas, Kachchapaghātas, and two minor dynasties |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8B4LAQAAMAAJ |year=1991 |publisher=[[Archaeological Survey of India]] }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Om Prakash Misra |title=Archaeological Excavations in Central India: Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=o0ISjDDWJwQC&pg=PA11 |year=2003 |publisher=Mittal Publications |isbn=978-81-7099-874-7 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Peter Jackson |author-link=Peter Jackson (historian) |title=The Delhi Sultanate: A Political and Military History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=lt2tqOpVRKgC&pg=PA199 |year=2003 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-0-521-54329-3 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=R. K. Dikshit |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130 |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Romila Thapar |author-link=Romila Thapar |title=The Past Before Us |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aei9AAAAQBAJ&pg=PA571 |year=2013 |publisher=Harvard University Press |isbn=978-0-674-72651-2 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sisirkumar Mitra |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA113 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sushil Kumar Sullerey |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{refend}}<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
* {{commons category-inline|Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti| ]]<br />
[[Category:Medieval Indian dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Hindu dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Bundelkhand]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:9th-century establishments in India]]<br />
[[Category:14th-century disestablishments in India]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Nannukavarman&diff=562217Nannukavarman2026-09-16T08:18:13Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Chandela king from 831 to 845}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Infobox royalty<br />
| name = Nannukavarman <br />
| title = Nṛpati, Mahipati<br />
| succession = Chandela ruler<br />
| reign = {{Circa|831}}–845<br />
| successor = [[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpativarman]]<br />
| dynasty = [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
<br />
}}<br />
'''Nannukavarman''' (reigned {{Circa|early 9th}}–845, [[Sanskrit]]: नन्नुकवर्मन्, [[IAST]] Nannuka Varman), also known simply as '''Nannuka''' and '''Chandravarman''', was the Chandela ruler who founded the [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]] in the early 9th century CE, which ruled the [[Chandel Empire]]. Nannuka varman established Chandela authority in the region of Central India by overthrowing a [[Gurjara-Pratihara]] governor.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=25}}<br />
<br />
The poetic ballads about the Chandelas do not mention Nannuka at all, and instead name "Chandravarman" as the founder of the Chandela dynasty. However, Nannuka is mentioned as the dynasty's founder in two inscriptions found at Khajuraho, dated [[Vikrama Samvat]] 1011 (954 CE) and 1059 (1002 CE). These two inscriptions, eulogistic in nature, do not provide much information of historical value.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=25}} The 954 CE inscription states that he had conquered many enemies, and that other princes feared and obeyed him. It also states that he was "shaped like the god of love", and "playfully decorated the faces of the women of the quarters with the sandal of his fame".{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=25-26}} The inscription also praises him using vague phrases, such as "a touchstone to test the worth of the gold of the regal order".{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=27}} The 1002 CE inscription describes him as the Sun and the pearl-jewel of his family. It compares his archery skills to that of the legendary hero [[Arjuna]]. It praises his modesty and generosity, and calls him the "delight of his subjects".{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=26}}<br />
<br />
The epigraphic records do not mention the circumstances in which the Chandela kingdom was established.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=27}} The titles given to Nannuka in the Chandela records include ''nṛpa'', ''narpati'' and ''mahīpati''. These are not very high titles, and therefore some modern historians believe that he was only a small feudatory ruler.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=26}} According to the local tradition of Bundelkhand, the Chandelas became rulers of that region after subduing the [[Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty|Pratiharas]]. Historian R. K. Dikshit notes that, in absence of any historical evidence, it is hard to believe that Nannuka defeated the imperial Pratiharas. He could have overthrown a local branch of the Pratiharas.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=26}}<br />
<br />
Nannuka was succeeded by his son [[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vākpati]].{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=27}}<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
<br />
* {{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA25 |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |first=R. K. |last=Dikshit |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA27 |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |first=Sisirkumar |last=Mitra |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
<br />
{{Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
[[Category:9th-century Indian monarchs]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Nannukavarman&diff=562216Nannukavarman2026-09-16T08:15:36Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Chandela king from 831 to 845}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Infobox royalty<br />
| name = Nannukavarman <br />
| title = Nṛpati, Mahipati<br />
| succession = Chandela ruler<br />
| reign = {{Circa|831}}–845<br />
| successor = [[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpativarman]]<br />
| dynasty = [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
<br />
}}<br />
'''Nannukavarman''' (reigned {{Circa|early 9th}}–845, Sanskrit: नन्नुकवर्मन्, [[IAST]] Nannuka Varman), also known as simply '''Nannuka''' and '''Chandravarman''', was the Chandela ruler who founded the [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]] in the early 9th century CE, which ruled the [[Chandel Empire]]. Nannuka varman established Chandela authority in the region of Central India by overthrowing a [[Gurjara-Pratihara]] governor.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=25}}<br />
<br />
The poetic ballads about the Chandelas do not mention Nannuka at all, and instead name "Chandravarman" as the founder of the Chandela dynasty. However, Nannuka is mentioned as the dynasty's founder in two inscriptions found at Khajuraho, dated [[Vikrama Samvat]] 1011 (954 CE) and 1059 (1002 CE). These two inscriptions, eulogistic in nature, do not provide much information of historical value.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=25}} The 954 CE inscription states that he had conquered many enemies, and that other princes feared and obeyed him. It also states that he was "shaped like the god of love", and "playfully decorated the faces of the women of the quarters with the sandal of his fame".{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=25-26}} The inscription also praises him using vague phrases, such as "a touchstone to test the worth of the gold of the regal order".{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=27}} The 1002 CE inscription describes him as the Sun and the pearl-jewel of his family. It compares his archery skills to that of the legendary hero [[Arjuna]]. It praises his modesty and generosity, and calls him the "delight of his subjects".{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=26}}<br />
<br />
The epigraphic records do not mention the circumstances in which the Chandela kingdom was established.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=27}} The titles given to Nannuka in the Chandela records include ''nṛpa'', ''narpati'' and ''mahīpati''. These are not very high titles, and therefore some modern historians believe that he was only a small feudatory ruler.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=26}} According to the local tradition of Bundelkhand, the Chandelas became rulers of that region after subduing the [[Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty|Pratiharas]]. Historian R. K. Dikshit notes that, in absence of any historical evidence, it is hard to believe that Nannuka defeated the imperial Pratiharas. He could have overthrown a local branch of the Pratiharas.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=26}}<br />
<br />
Nannuka was succeeded by his son [[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vākpati]].{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=27}}<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
<br />
* {{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA25 |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |first=R. K. |last=Dikshit |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA27 |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |first=Sisirkumar |last=Mitra |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
<br />
{{Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
[[Category:9th-century Indian monarchs]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Nannukavarman&diff=562215Nannukavarman2026-09-16T08:14:54Z<p>Vishvaksena: Created page with "{{Short description|Chandela king from 831 to 845}} {{Use dmy dates|date=June 2017}} {{Use Indian English|date=June 2017}} {{Infobox royalty | name = Nannukavarman | title = Nṛpati, Mahipati | succession = Chandela ruler | reign = {{Circa|831}}–845 | successor = Vakpativarman | dynasty = Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti }} '''Nannukavarman''' (reigned {{Circa|early 9th}}–845, Sanskrit: नन्..."</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Chandela king from 831 to 845}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Infobox royalty<br />
| name = Nannukavarman <br />
| title = Nṛpati, Mahipati<br />
| succession = Chandela ruler<br />
| reign = {{Circa|831}}–845<br />
| successor = [[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpativarman]]<br />
| dynasty = [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
<br />
}}<br />
'''Nannukavarman''' (reigned {{Circa|early 9th}}–845, Sanskrit: नन्नुकवर्मन्, [[IAST]] Nannuka Varman), also known as '''Nannuka''' and '''Chandra varman''', was the Chandela ruler who founded the [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]] in the early 9th century CE, which ruled the [[Chandel Empire]]. Nannuka varman established Chandela authority in the region of Central India by overthrowing a [[Gurjara-Pratihara]] governor.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=25}}<br />
<br />
The poetic ballads about the Chandelas do not mention Nannuka at all, and instead name "Chandravarman" as the founder of the Chandela dynasty. However, Nannuka is mentioned as the dynasty's founder in two inscriptions found at Khajuraho, dated [[Vikrama Samvat]] 1011 (954 CE) and 1059 (1002 CE). These two inscriptions, eulogistic in nature, do not provide much information of historical value.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=25}} The 954 CE inscription states that he had conquered many enemies, and that other princes feared and obeyed him. It also states that he was "shaped like the god of love", and "playfully decorated the faces of the women of the quarters with the sandal of his fame".{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|pp=25-26}} The inscription also praises him using vague phrases, such as "a touchstone to test the worth of the gold of the regal order".{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=27}} The 1002 CE inscription describes him as the Sun and the pearl-jewel of his family. It compares his archery skills to that of the legendary hero [[Arjuna]]. It praises his modesty and generosity, and calls him the "delight of his subjects".{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=26}}<br />
<br />
The epigraphic records do not mention the circumstances in which the Chandela kingdom was established.{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=27}} The titles given to Nannuka in the Chandela records include ''nṛpa'', ''narpati'' and ''mahīpati''. These are not very high titles, and therefore some modern historians believe that he was only a small feudatory ruler.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=26}} According to the local tradition of Bundelkhand, the Chandelas became rulers of that region after subduing the [[Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty|Pratiharas]]. Historian R. K. Dikshit notes that, in absence of any historical evidence, it is hard to believe that Nannuka defeated the imperial Pratiharas. He could have overthrown a local branch of the Pratiharas.{{sfn|Dikshit|1976|p=26}}<br />
<br />
Nannuka was succeeded by his son [[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vākpati]].{{sfn|Mitra|1977|p=27}}<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
<br />
* {{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA25 |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |first=R. K. |last=Dikshit |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA27 |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |first=Sisirkumar |last=Mitra |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
<br />
{{Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
[[Category:9th-century Indian monarchs]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chandel_Empire&diff=562214Chandel Empire2026-09-16T07:55:07Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Late medieval Hindu dynasty of India (800-16th c.)}}<br />
{{pp-extended|small=yes}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=March 2013}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2022}}<br />
{{Infobox country<br />
|conventional_long_name = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
|common_name = Chandela<br />
|era = [[Medieval India]]<br />
|government_type = Monarchy<br />
|year_start = {{Circa|early 9th c.}}<br />
|year_end = 16th c.<br />
|p1 = Kalachuris of Tripuri<br />
| s1 = Mamluk dynasty (Delhi)<br />
| s2 = Mughal Empire <br />
|image_map = Map of the Candellas.png<br />
|image_map_caption = Territory of the Chandelas during the reign of [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] circa 1025 CE.<ref name="JS">{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical Atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=Oxford University Press, Digital South Asia Library|author-link=Joseph E. Schwartzberg |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/cgi-bin/reference/schwartzberg/query.py?display_type=image_display&object=183#gsc.tab=0|page=146, Map "j"}}</ref><br />
|map_width = 300px<br />
|capital = {{ubl|[[Khajuraho]]|[[Kalanjara]]|[[Mahoba]]}}<br />
|common_languages = [[Sanskrit]]<br />
|religion = {{ubl|[[Hinduism]]|[[Jainism]]}}<br />
|today = [[India]]<br />
| image_coat = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti. Sallakshana Varman. Circa 1120-1135 CE.jpg<br />
| coa_size = 280px<br />
| symbol_type = Coinage of [[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (1120–1135 CE), Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
}}<br />
<br />
The '''Chandel Empire''' ([[Nagari]]: चन्देल साम्राज्य, [[IAST]]: Çandela empire) was an [[Indian]] empire during the [[medieval India|medieval period]] of the Indian subcontinent which existed from the 9th century to the 16th century CE. At its peak, the dynasty ruled over an empire that spanned much of the northern Indian subcontinent, with its country called [[Jejakabhukti (Chandela country)|Jejakabhukti]]. The ruling dynasty of the empire was founded by the Chandela ruler [[Nannukavarman]], who established [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]] in the early 9th century. The dynasty belonged to the [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]] clan of the [[Rajput|Rajputs]].<ref>*{{Cite book |author=Upinder Singh|author-link=Upinder Singh|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7DRuAAAAMAAJ |title=The Discovery of Ancient India: Early Archaeologists and the Beginnings of Archaeology |date=2004 |publisher=Permanent Black |isbn=978-81-7824-088-6|page=73|quote=Discussion of the histories of various Rajput clans, such as the Chauhans, Kachhvahas, Chandelas, Pratiharas and Tomaras on the basis of a wide range of sources-literary, epigraphic, numismatic, bardic accounts and local traditions|language=en}}<br />
*{{Cite book|last1=Kulke|first1=Hermann|author-link1=Hermann Kulke|last2=Rothermund|first2=Dietmar |author-link2=Dietmar Rothermund|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TPVq3ykHyH4C|title=A History of India|date=2004|publisher=Psychology Press|isbn=978-0-415-32919-4|language=en|page=117|quote="When Gurjara Pratiharas power declined after the sacking of Kannauj by the Rashtrakutas in the early tenth century many Rajput princes declared their independence and founded their own kingdoms, some of which grew to importance in the subsequent two centuries. The better known among those dynasties were the Chaulukyas or Solankis of Gujarat and Kathiawar, the Chahamanas (i.e. Chauhans) of eastern Rajasthan (Ajmer and Jodhpur) and the Tomaras who had founded Delhi (Dhillika) in 736 but had been displaced by the Chauhans in the twelfth century. Rajput descent was also claimed by the Chandelas of Khujuraho and the Kalachuris of Tripuri"}}<br />
*{{Cite book |author=Romila Thapar|author-link=Romila Thapar|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=i6cwDwAAQBAJ |title=Early India: From the Origins to AD 1300 |date=2004|publisher=University of California Press |isbn=978-0-520-24225-8 |page=420|quote=Other claiming to be Rajputs and descended from the solar and lunar lines, established themselves as local kings in various parts of western and central India. Among them were the Chandellas, prominent in the tenth century in Bundelkhand with their centre at Khajuraho and their territory known as Jejakabhukti|language=en}}<br />
*{{harvnb|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=8}}: "The Candellas are undoubtedly a Rajput clan and the epigraphic evidences does not show that any inferiority was applied to them in the past. It reveals their matrimonial relationship with important Rajput families from the very beginning of their history"</ref><br />
<br />
The Chandelas initially ruled as feudatories of the [[Gurjara-Pratihara]]s of [[Kanyakubja]] (Kannauj). The 10th century Chandela ruler Harshavarman became the indipendent chandela king, he defeated Rashtrakuta Empire, recrowned pratihara ruler mahipala, while his son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] defeated Pratihara empire. y the time of his successor [[Dhangavarman (Chandel emperor)|Dhanga]], the Chandelas had become a sovereign power. Their power rose and declined as they fought battles with the neighbouring dynasties, especially the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]]s of [[Malwa]] and the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]. From the 11th century onwards, they faced raids by the northern Muslim dynasties, including the [[Ghaznavid]]s and the [[Ghurid]]s. The Chandela power effectively ended around the beginning of the 13th century, following selhiiSultanate ons.<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture, most notably for the temples at their original capital [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]]. They also commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at other places, including their strongholds of [[Ajaigarh]], [[Kalinjar]] and their later capital [[Mahoba]].<br />
<br />
== Origin ==<br />
The origin of the Chandelas is obscured by mythical legends. The epigraphic records of the dynasty, as well as contemporary texts such as ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' and ''Prabodha-chandrodaya'', suggest that the Chandelas belonged to the legendary [[Lunar dynasty]] (''Chandravansha'').{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} A 954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription states that the dynasty's first king [[Nannuka]] was a descendant of sage Chandratreya, who was a son of [[Atri]]. A 1002 CE Khajuraho inscription gives a slightly different account, in which Chandratreya is mentioned as a son of Indu (the Moon) and a grandson of Atri.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} The 1195 CE Baghari inscription and the 1260 CE Ajaygadh inscription contain similar accounts.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=5}} The ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' also names [[Atri]] among the ancestors of the Chandelas. Another Khajuraho inscription describes the Chandela king [[Dhanga]] as a member of the [[Vrishni]] clan of the [[Yadavas]] (who also claimed to be part of the Lunar dynasty).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}}<br />
<br />
[[File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638391942).jpg |thumb|left|upright|Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
The ''Mahoba-Khanda'' legend of the dynasty's origin goes like this: Hemaraja, a priest of the [[Gahadavala|Gaharwar]] king of [[Varanasi|Benares]], had a beautiful daughter named Hemavati. Once, while Hemavati was bathing in a pond, the moon god [[Chandra]] saw her and made love to her. Hemavati was worried about the dishonour of being an unwed mother, but Chandra assured her that their son would become a great king. This child was the dynasty's progenitor Chandravarma. Chandra presented him with a [[philosopher's stone]] and taught him politics.<ref name="Asopa1976">{{cite book |author=Jai Narayan Asopa |title=Origin of the Rajputs |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=I_KznQEACAAJ |year=1976 |publisher=Bharatiya Publishing House |page=208}}</ref>{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} The dynasty's own records do not mention Hemavati, Hemaraja or Indrajit. Such legends appear to be later bardic inventions. In general, the ''Mahoba-Khanda'' is a historically unreliable text.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} ''Prithviraj Raso'' is also considered an historically unreliable text.<ref>{{cite book | editor=K Ayyappap Panikkar | title=Medieval Indian literature: an anthology (Volume 1) | author = Vijayendra Snatak | chapter = Medieval Hindi Literature | chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KYLpvaKJIMEC&pg=PA142 |year=1997 | publisher=Sahitya Akademi | isbn=978-81-260-0365-5 | page=142}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Serving empire, serving nation: James Tod and the Rajputs of Rajasthan |first=Jason |last=Freitag |publisher=BRILL |year=2009 |isbn=978-90-04-17594-5 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ib93BhAu43gC |pages=3–5}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=R. V. Somani |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NcIBAAAAMAAJ |title=History of Mewar, from Earliest Times to 1751 A.D. |publisher=Mateshwari |year=1976 |oclc=2929852 |page= 30}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[File:Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh.jpg|thumb|Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh. [[Metropolitan Museum of Art]].]]<br />
British indologist [[Vincent Arthur Smith|V. A. Smith]] theorized that the Chandelas were of either [[Bhar]] or [[Gondi people|Gond]] origin. Some other scholars including [[R. C. Majumdar]] also supported this theory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=6}} The Chandelas worshipped Maniya, a tribal goddess, whose temples are located at Mahoba and Maniyagadh.<ref name="Ali_2008">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iXVNBAAAQBAJ&pg=PA44 |title=World Heritage Monuments and Related Edifices in India |volume=1 |author=Ali Javid and Tabassum Javeed |publisher=Algora |year=2008 |isbn=9780875864822 |page=44 }}</ref> Besides, they have been associated with places that are also associated with Bhars and Gonds. Also, [[Rani Durgavati]], whose family claimed Chandela descent married a Gond chief of [[Mandla|Garha-Mandla]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Historian R. K. Dikshit does not find these arguments convincing: he argues that Maniya was not a tribal deity.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}} Also, the dynasty's association with Gond territory is not necessarily indicative of a common descent: the dynasty's progenitor may have been posted as a governor in these territories.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Finally, Durgavati's marriage to a Gond chief can be dismissed as a one-off case.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}}<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
<br />
=== Early rulers ===<br />
<br />
The Chandelas were originally vassals of the [[Gurjara-Pratiharas]].<ref>Radhey Shyam Chaurasia, History of Ancient India: Earliest Times to 1000 A. D.</ref> [[Nannuka]] (r. {{Circa|831}}–845 CE), the founder of the dynasty, was the ruler of a small kingdom centered around [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]].<ref>{{cite book |author=Sailendra Sen |title=A Textbook of Medieval Indian History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UdW6lAEACAAJ |year=2013 |publisher=Primus |isbn=978-93-80607-34-4 |page=22}}</ref><br />
<br />
According to the Chandela inscriptions, Nannuka's successor [[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] defeated several enemies.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=27-28}} Vakpati's sons [[Jayashakti]] (Jeja) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vija) consolidated the Chandela power.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=30}} According to a [[Mahoba]] inscription, the Chandela territory was named "Jejakabhukti" after the Jayashakti.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=28}} Vijayashakti's successor [[Rahila]] is credited with several military victories in eulogistic inscriptions.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=30–31}} Rahila's son [[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]] played an important role in restoring the rule of the Pratihara king [[Mahipala I|Mahipala]], possibly after a [[Rashtrakuta]] invasion or after Mahiapala's conflict with his step-brother [[Bhoja II (Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty)|Bhoja II]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=32–35}}<br />
<br />
=== Rise as a sovereign power ===<br />
[[File:Kirtivarman Chandela visits the temple of Khajurahu.jpg|thumb|A 20th century artist's imagination of Kirtivarman Chandela visiting a [[Khajuraho]] temple]]<br />
Harsha's son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] (r. c. 925–950 CE) continued to acknowledge the Pratihara suzerainty, but became practically independent.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=36–37}} He conquered the important fortress of [[Kalanjara]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}} A 953–954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription credits him with several other military successes, including against [[Gauḍa (region)|Gaudas]] (identified with the [[Pala Empire|Palas]]), the [[Khasas]], the [[Chedi Kingdom|Chedis]] (the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]), the [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosalas]] (possibly the [[Somavaṃśī dynasty|Somavamshis]]), the [[Mithila (ancient)|Mithila]] (possibly a small tributary ruler), [[Malwa|Malavas]] (identified with the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramaras]]), the [[Kuru Kingdom|Kurus]], the [[Kasmira Kingdom|Kashmiris]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=42-51}} These claims appear to be exaggerated, as similar claims of extensive conquests in northern India are also found in the records of the other contemporary kings such as the Kalachuri king Yuva-Raja and the Rashtrakuta king [[Krishna III]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=42}} Yashovarman's reign marked the beginning of the famous Chandela-era art and architecture. He commissioned the [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}}<br />
<br />
Unlike the earlier Chandela inscriptions, the records of Yashovarman's successor [[Dhanga]] (r. c. 950–999 CE) do not mention any Pratihara overlord. This indicates that Dhanga formally established the Chandela sovereignty.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=57}} A Khajuraho inscription claims that the rulers of [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosala]], Kratha (part of [[Vidarbha]] region), [[Kuntala country|Kuntala]], and [[Sinhala Kingdom|Simhala]] listened humbly to the commands of Dhanga's officers. It also claims that the wives of the kings of [[Andhra Kingdom|Andhra]], [[Anga]], [[Kanchi Kingdom|Kanchi]] and [[Rarh region|Raḍha]] resided in his prisons as a result of his success in wars. These appear to be eulogistic exaggerations by a court poet, but suggest that Dhanga did undertake extensive military campaigns.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=56}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=61–65}} Like his predecessor, Dhanga also commissioned a magnificent temple at Khajuraho, which is identified as the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=69}}<br />
<br />
Dhanga's successor [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda]] appears to have retained the territory he inherited.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72}} His son [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] killed theking of [[Kannauj]] (possibly Rajyapala) for fleeing his capital instead of fighting the [[Ghaznavid]] invader [[Mahmud of Ghazni]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72–73}}{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=72}} Mahmud later invaded Vidyadhara's kingdom; according to the Muslim invaders, this conflict ended with Vidyadhara paying tribute to Mahmud.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=81–82}} Vidyadhara is noted for having commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=26}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela art and architecture reached its zenith during this period. The [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] (c. 930–950 CE), the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]] (c. 999–1002 CE) and the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] (c. 1030 CE) were constructed during the reigns of Yashovarman, Dhanga and Vidyadhara respectively. These [[Nagara architecture|Nagara-style]] temples are representative of the most fully developed style at Khajuraho.<ref name="James_1994">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LwcBVvdqyBkC&pg=PA234 |title=The Art and Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent |author=James C. Harle |publisher=Yale University Press |year=1994 |page=234 |isbn=0300062176 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Nagara-style temples of Khajuraho"><br />
India-5679 - Flickr - archer10 (Dennis).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]]<br />
File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638423582).jpg|[[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha Temple]]<br />
Vishwanath N-MP-23.jpg | [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]]<br />
A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg | [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
=== Decline ===<br />
[[File:Mahadeva Temple, Khajuraho.jpg|thumb|[[Surasundari]] and [[vyala]], [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
[[File:Le Temple Kandariya Mahadeva (Khajurâho) (8503001895).jpg|thumb|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple|Kandariya Mahadeva temple]] carvings.]]<br />
By the end of Vidyadhara's reign, the [[Ghaznavid]] invasions had weakened the Chandela kingdom. Taking advantage of this, the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]] conquered eastern parts of the kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=89–90}} Chandela inscriptions suggest that Vidyadhara's successor [[Vijayapala]] (r. c. 1035–1050 CE) defeated Gangeya in a battle.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=88}} However, the Chandela power started declining during the Vijayapala's reign.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=101}} The [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghatas]] of [[Gwalior]] probably gave up their allegiance to the Chandelas during this period.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=90}}<br />
<br />
Vijayapala's elder son [[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavavarman]] was subjugated by Gangeya's son [[Lakshmikarna|Lakshmi-Karna]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=91}} His younger brother [[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]] resurrected the Chandela power by defeating Lakshmi-Karna.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=94}} Kirtivarman's son [[Sallakshanavarman]] achieved military successes against the Paramaras and the Kalachuris, possibly by raiding their territories. A [[Mau, Uttar Pradesh|Mau]] inscription suggests that he also conducted successful campaigns in the Antarvedi region (the Ganga-Yamuna [[doab]]).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=120-121}} His son [[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]] was of religious temperament and abdicated the throne after being tired of governance.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=126}}<br />
<br />
Jayavarman appears to have died heirless, as he was succeeded by his uncle [[Prithvivarman]], the younger son of Kirttivarman.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=110–111}} The Chandela inscriptions do not ascribe any military achievements to him; it appears that he was focused on maintaining the existing Chandela territories without adopting an aggressive expansionist policy.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=111}}<br />
<br />
=== Revival ===<br />
<br />
By the time Prithvivarman's son [[Madanavarman]] (r. c. 1128–1165 CE) ascended the throne, the neighbouring [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] and [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] kingdoms had been weakened by enemy invasions. Taking advantage of this situation, Madanavarman defeated the Kalachuri king [[Gayakarna|Gaya-Karna]], and possibly annexed the northern part of the [[Baghelkhand]] region.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132}} However, the Chandelas lost this territory to Gaya-Karna's successor [[Narasimha (Kalachuri dynasty)|Narasimha]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}} Madanavarman also captured the territory on the western periphery of the Paramara kingdom, around [[Bhilsa]] (Vidisha). This probably happened during the reign of the Paramara king [[Yashovarman (Paramara dynasty)|Yashovarman]] or his son [[Jayavarman I (Paramara dynasty)|Jayavarman]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=130–132}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=112-113}} Once again, the Chandelas could not retain the newly annexed territory for long, and the region was recaptured by Yashovarman's son Lakshmivarman.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}}<br />
<br />
[[Jayasimha Siddharaja]], the [[Chaulukya]] king of Gujarat, also invaded the Paramara territory, which was located between the Chandela and the Chaulukya kingdoms. This brought him in conflict with Madanavarman. The result of this conflict appears to have been inconclusive, as records of both the kingdoms claim victory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=133}} A [[Kalanjara]] inscription suggests that Madanavarman defeated Jayasimha. On the other hand, the various chronicles of Gujarat claim that Jayasimha either defeated Madanavarman or extracted a tribute from him.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=133–134}} Madanavarman maintained friendly relations with his northern neighbours, the [[Gahadavala]]s.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132-133}}<br />
<br />
Madanavarman's son [[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]] either did not rule, or ruled for a very short time. Madanavarman's grandson [[Paramardi|Paramardi-deva]] was the last powerful Chandela king.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=130}}<br />
<br />
=== Final decline ===<br />
{{South Asia in 1175||Location of the Chandelas and neighbouring South Asian polities in 1175, on the eve of the [[Ghurid Empire]] invasion of the subcontinent.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=University of Chicago Press |location=Chicago |pages=37, 147|isbn=0226742210 |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/schwartzberg/pager.html?object=074}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Eaton |first1=Richard M. |title=India in the Persianate Age: 1000-1765 |date=25 July 2019 |publisher=Penguin UK |isbn=978-0-14-196655-7 |page=38 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aIF6DwAAQBAJ&pg=PP31 |language=en}}</ref>|{{Annotation|152|90|[[File:Orange dot (semi-transparent).png|35px]]}}}}<br />
[[Paramardi]] (reigned c. 1165-1203 CE) ascended the Chandela throne at a young age. While the early years of his reign were peaceful, around 1182–1183 CE, the [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari|Chahamana]] ruler [[Prithviraj Chauhan]] invaded the Chandela kingdom. According to the medieval legendary ballads, Prithviraj's army lost its way after a surprise attack by ([[Ghurid]]) [[Turkic peoples|Turkic]] forces, and unknowingly camped at the Chandela capital [[Mahoba]]. This led to a brief conflict between the Chandelas and the Chauhans, before Prithviraj left for Delhi. Sometime later, Prithviraj invaded the Chandela kingdom and sacked Mahoba. Paramardi cowardly took shelter in the [[Kalanjara]] fort. The Chandela force, led by [[Alha]], Udal [[banaphar]], rajputs, of Mahoba|Udal]] and other generals, was defeated in this battle. Nowadays [[ahir]], caste claims alha udal but according to historians and alha khand and mahoba khand they belongs to [[banaphar]], clan of [[rajput]], caste and their mother was of [[ahir]], which is why they are called of mixed origin.According to the various ballads, Paramardi either committed suicide out of shame or retired to [[Gaya, India|Gaya]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=120–123}}<br />
<br />
Prithviraj Chauhan's raid of Mahoba is corroborated by his [[Madanpur, Lalitpur, India|Madanpur]] stone inscriptions. However, there are several instances of historical inaccuracies in the bardic legends. For example, it is known that Paramardi did not retire or die immediately after the Chauhan victory. He restored the Chandela power, and ruled as a sovereign until around 1202–1203 CE, when [[Qutb al-Din Aibak]], the [[Ghurid Empire]] governor of [[Delhi]], invaded the Chandela kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=123–126}} According to ''Taj-ul-Maasir'', a chronicle of the [[Delhi Sultanate]], Paramardi surrendered to the Delhi forces. He promised to pay tribute to the Sultan, but died before he could keep this promise. His [[dewan]] offered some resistance to the invading forces, but was ultimately subdued. The 16th century historian [[Firishta]] states that Paramardi was assassinated by his own minister, who disagreed with the king's decision to surrender to the Delhi forces.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela power did not fully recover from their defeat against the Delhi forces. Paramardi was succeeded by [[Trailokyavarman]], [[Viravarman]] and [[Bhojavarman]]. The next ruler [[Hammiravarman]] (r. c. 1288–1311 CE) did not use the imperial title [[Maharajadhiraja]], which indicates that the Chandela king had a lower status by his time. The Chandela power continued to decline because of the rising Muslim influence, as well as the rise of other local dynasties, such as the [[Bundela]]s, the Baghelas and the [[Khangar (community)|Khangars]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=179}}<br />
<br />
Hammiravarman was succeeded by Viravarman II, whose titles do not indicate a high political status.{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}{{sfn|Om Prakash Misra|2003|p=11}} [[Chandelas of Kalanjara (minor Chandela branch)|One minor branch of the family continued ruling Kalanjara]]: its ruler was killed by [[Sher Shah Suri]]'s army in 1545 CE. Another minor branch ruled at [[Mahoba]]: [[Rani Durgavati|Durgavati]], one of its princesses married into the [[Garha Kingdom|Gond]] royal family of [[Mandla]]. Some other ruling families also claimed Chandela descent (see [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]]).{{sfn|Romila Thapar|2013|p=572}}<br />
<br />
== Art and architecture ==<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture. They commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at various places. The most famous example of their cultural achievements are the Hindu and Jain temples at [[Khajuraho]]. Three other important Chandela strongholds were Jayapura-Durga (modern [[Ajaigarh]]), Kalanjara (modern [[Kalinjar]]) and Mahotsava-Nagara (modern [[Mahoba]]).{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela architecture"><br />
Khajuraho Dulhadeo 2010.jpg | Dulhadeo temple, Khajuraho<br />
0B Ajaigarh 4 sides temple.jpg | Ajaigarh temple<br />
Yajna mandap in kulpahar.jpg | A [[yajna]] [[mandapa]] at [[Kulpahar]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
Other smaller Chandela sites include Chandpur, [[Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh|Deogarh]], Dudahi, [[Kakadeo]], Madanpur and [[Aharji Jain Teerth|Aharji]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<ref>{{cite book |last1=Titze |first1=Kurt |last2=Bruhn|first2=Klaus |title=Jainism: A Pictorial Guide to the Religion of Non-Violence |url={{Google books|loQkEIf8z5wC|page=123|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=[[Motilal Banarsidass]] |edition=2 |year=1998 |isbn=978-81-208-1534-6 | page=128 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Reddy |first=P. Chenny | author-link=P. Chenna Reddy |title=Kalyana Mitra: A treasure house of history, culture and archaeological studies | volume=5 |url={{Google books|prCqEAAAQBAJ|page=197|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=Blue Rose Publishers |year=2023 |isbn=978-93-5741-111-0 | page=197 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela sculptures"><br />
Brahma and his consort.jpg | Brahma and his consort, Khajuraho<br />
Ajaygarh Alians ship.jpg | Stone carving, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Neel Swarshwati.jpg | Jain [[tirthankara]]s and [[Sarasvati]], Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh seven heavens of Jain.jpg | Jain heavens, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Shramanas Egyptian style rock cut.jpg | Jain [[shramana]]s, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh treasure sign.jpg | Cattle with treasure sign, Ajaigarh<br />
35. Khajuraho Visvanath apsara.jpg | [[Surasundari]] [[Apsara]], Khajuraho<br />
Khajuraho 126.jpg | Dancing Ganesha, Khajuraho<br />
<br />
Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638393390).jpg | [[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha temple]] carvings<br />
Le Temple de Lakshmana (Khajurâho) (8498182643).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana temple]] carvings<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== List of Rulers==<br />
<br />
Based on epigraphic records, the historians have come up with the following list of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti ([[IAST]] names in brackets):{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=25}}{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=25}}{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+List of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti<br />
! S.N.<br />
! Ruler's regional name ([[IAST]] name in bracket)<br />
! Reign (CE)<br />
|-<br />
|1<br />
|[[Nannuka]]<br />
|831–845<br />
|-<br />
|2<br />
|[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] (Vākpati)<br />
|845–865<br />
|-<br />
|3<br />
|[[Jayashakti]] (Jayaśakti) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vijayaśakti)<br />
|865–885<br />
|-<br />
|4<br />
|[[Rahila]] (Rāhila)<br />
|885–905<br />
|-<br />
|5<br />
|[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Shri Harsha]] (Śri Harśa)<br />
|905–925<br />
|-<br />
|6<br />
|[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman]] (Yaśovarman)<br />
|925–950<br />
|-<br />
|7<br />
|[[Dhangavarman]] <br />
|950–999<br />
|-<br />
|8<br />
|[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda-Deva]] (Gaṇḍadeva)<br />
|999–1002<br />
|-<br />
|9<br />
|[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] (Vidyādhara)<br />
|1003–1035<br />
|-<br />
|10<br />
|[[Vijayapala|Vijaya-Pala]] (Vijayapāla)<br />
|1035–1050<br />
|-<br />
|11<br />
|[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Deva-Varman]]<br />
|1050–1060<br />
|-<br />
|12<br />
|[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirtti-Varman]] (Kīrtivarman)<br />
|1060–1100<br />
|-<br />
|13<br />
|[[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (Sallakṣaṇavarman)<br />
|1100–1110<br />
|-<br />
|14<br />
|[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jaya-Varman]]<br />
|1110–1120<br />
|-<br />
|15<br />
|[[Prithvivarman|Prithvi-Varman]] (Pṛthvīvarman)<br />
|1120–1128<br />
|-<br />
|16<br />
|[[Madanavarman|Madana-Varman]]<br />
|1128–1164<br />
|-<br />
|17<br />
|[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman II]]<br />
|1164–1165<br />
|-<br />
|18<br />
|[[Paramardideva|Paramardi-Deva]]<br />
|1165–1203<br />
|-<br />
|19<br />
|[[Trailokyavarman|Trailokya-Varman]]<br />
|1203–1245<br />
|-<br />
|20<br />
|[[Viravarman|Vira-Varman]] (Vīravarman)<br />
|1245–1285<br />
|-<br />
|21<br />
|[[Bhojavarman|Bhoja-Varman]]<br />
|1285–1288<br />
|-<br />
|22<br />
|[[Hammiravarman|Hammira-Varman]] (Hammīravarman)<br />
|1288–1311<br />
|-<br />
|23<br />
|Vira-Varman II<br />
|1311–1315<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Family tree ==<br />
<br />
{{Chart top|width=100%|collapsed=yes|Chandela dynasty}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart/start|align=center|style=font-size:90%}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Nannuka]]'''<br><sup>(1)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 831-845</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]]'''<br><sup>(2)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 845-865</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(3)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Vijayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(4)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Rahila]]'''<br><sup>(5)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 885-905</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]]'''<br><sup>(6)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 905-925</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman I]]'''<br><sup>(7)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 925-950</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Dhanga]]deva'''<br><sup>(8)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 950-999</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandadeva]]'''<br><sup>(9)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 999-1002</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]]'''<br><sup>(10)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1003-1035</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vijayapala]]'''<br><sup>(11)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1035-1050</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavarman]]'''<br><sup>(12)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1050-1060</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]]'''<br><sup>(13)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1060-1100</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Sallakshanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(14)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1100-1110</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Prithvivarman]]'''<br><sup>(16)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1120-1128</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]]'''<br><sup>(15)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1110-1120</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Madanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(17)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1128-1165</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]]'''<br><sup>(18)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|+|-|-|-|.| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Paramardi]]'''<br><sup>(19)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165-1203</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Viravarman]]'''<br><sup>(21)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1245-1285</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03=Child of<br>Yashovarman}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Trailokyavarman]]'''<br><sup>(20)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1203–1245</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Hammiravarman]]'''<br><sup>(23)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1288-1311</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03='''[[Bhojavarman]]'''<br><sup>(22)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1285-1288</small>|boxstyle_A03=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart/end}}<br />
<br />
{{Chart bottom}}<br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[History of Madhya Pradesh]]<br />
* [[Chandel (Rajput clan)]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kalanjara]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kumaun]]<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Harihar Vitthal Trivedi |title=Inscriptions of the Paramāras (Part 2) |series=Corpus Inscriptionum Indicarum Volume VII: Inscriptions of the Paramāras, Chandēllas, Kachchapaghātas, and two minor dynasties |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8B4LAQAAMAAJ |year=1991 |publisher=[[Archaeological Survey of India]] }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Om Prakash Misra |title=Archaeological Excavations in Central India: Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=o0ISjDDWJwQC&pg=PA11 |year=2003 |publisher=Mittal Publications |isbn=978-81-7099-874-7 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Peter Jackson |author-link=Peter Jackson (historian) |title=The Delhi Sultanate: A Political and Military History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=lt2tqOpVRKgC&pg=PA199 |year=2003 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-0-521-54329-3 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=R. K. Dikshit |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130 |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Romila Thapar |author-link=Romila Thapar |title=The Past Before Us |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aei9AAAAQBAJ&pg=PA571 |year=2013 |publisher=Harvard University Press |isbn=978-0-674-72651-2 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sisirkumar Mitra |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA113 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sushil Kumar Sullerey |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{refend}}<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
* {{commons category-inline|Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti| ]]<br />
[[Category:Medieval Indian dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Hindu dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Bundelkhand]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:9th-century establishments in India]]<br />
[[Category:14th-century disestablishments in India]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Nannuka&diff=562212Nannuka2026-09-16T07:43:34Z<p>Vishvaksena: Replaced content with "{{delete|unsourced}}"</p>
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<div>{{delete|unsourced}}</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chandel_Empire&diff=562210Chandel Empire2026-09-16T07:30:37Z<p>Vishvaksena: /* List of Rulers */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Late medieval Hindu dynasty of India (800-16th c.)}}<br />
{{pp-extended|small=yes}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=March 2013}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2022}}<br />
{{Infobox country<br />
|conventional_long_name = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
|common_name = Chandela<br />
|era = [[Medieval India]]<br />
|government_type = Monarchy<br />
|year_start = {{Circa|early 9th c.}}<br />
|year_end = 16th c.<br />
|p1 = Kalachuris of Tripuri<br />
| s1 = Mamluk dynasty (Delhi)<br />
| s2 = Mughal Empire <br />
|image_map = Map of the Candellas.png<br />
|image_map_caption = Territory of the Chandelas during the reign of [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] circa 1025 CE.<ref name="JS">{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical Atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=Oxford University Press, Digital South Asia Library|author-link=Joseph E. Schwartzberg |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/cgi-bin/reference/schwartzberg/query.py?display_type=image_display&object=183#gsc.tab=0|page=146, Map "j"}}</ref><br />
|map_width = 300px<br />
|capital = {{ubl|[[Khajuraho]]|[[Kalanjara]]|[[Mahoba]]}}<br />
|common_languages = [[Sanskrit]]<br />
|religion = {{ubl|[[Hinduism]]|[[Jainism]]}}<br />
|today = [[India]]<br />
| image_coat = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti. Sallakshana Varman. Circa 1120-1135 CE.jpg<br />
| coa_size = 280px<br />
| symbol_type = Coinage of [[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (1120–1135 CE), Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
}}<br />
<br />
The '''Chandel Empire''' ([[Nagari]]: चन्देल साम्राज्य, [[IAST]]: Çandela empire) was an [[Indian]] empire during the [[medieval India|medieval period]] of the Indian subcontinent which existed from the 9th century to the 16th century CE. At its peak, the dynasty ruled over an empire that spanned much of the northern Indian subcontinent, with its country called [[Jejakabhukti (Chandela country)|Jejakabhukti]]. The ruling dynasty of the empire was founded by the Chandela ruler [[Nannuka|Nannuka Varman]], who established [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]] in the early 9th century. The dynasty belonged to the [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]] clan of the [[Rajput|Rajputs]].<ref>*{{Cite book |author=Upinder Singh|author-link=Upinder Singh|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7DRuAAAAMAAJ |title=The Discovery of Ancient India: Early Archaeologists and the Beginnings of Archaeology |date=2004 |publisher=Permanent Black |isbn=978-81-7824-088-6|page=73|quote=Discussion of the histories of various Rajput clans, such as the Chauhans, Kachhvahas, Chandelas, Pratiharas and Tomaras on the basis of a wide range of sources-literary, epigraphic, numismatic, bardic accounts and local traditions|language=en}}<br />
*{{Cite book|last1=Kulke|first1=Hermann|author-link1=Hermann Kulke|last2=Rothermund|first2=Dietmar |author-link2=Dietmar Rothermund|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TPVq3ykHyH4C|title=A History of India|date=2004|publisher=Psychology Press|isbn=978-0-415-32919-4|language=en|page=117|quote="When Gurjara Pratiharas power declined after the sacking of Kannauj by the Rashtrakutas in the early tenth century many Rajput princes declared their independence and founded their own kingdoms, some of which grew to importance in the subsequent two centuries. The better known among those dynasties were the Chaulukyas or Solankis of Gujarat and Kathiawar, the Chahamanas (i.e. Chauhans) of eastern Rajasthan (Ajmer and Jodhpur) and the Tomaras who had founded Delhi (Dhillika) in 736 but had been displaced by the Chauhans in the twelfth century. Rajput descent was also claimed by the Chandelas of Khujuraho and the Kalachuris of Tripuri"}}<br />
*{{Cite book |author=Romila Thapar|author-link=Romila Thapar|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=i6cwDwAAQBAJ |title=Early India: From the Origins to AD 1300 |date=2004|publisher=University of California Press |isbn=978-0-520-24225-8 |page=420|quote=Other claiming to be Rajputs and descended from the solar and lunar lines, established themselves as local kings in various parts of western and central India. Among them were the Chandellas, prominent in the tenth century in Bundelkhand with their centre at Khajuraho and their territory known as Jejakabhukti|language=en}}<br />
*{{harvnb|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=8}}: "The Candellas are undoubtedly a Rajput clan and the epigraphic evidences does not show that any inferiority was applied to them in the past. It reveals their matrimonial relationship with important Rajput families from the very beginning of their history"</ref><br />
<br />
The Chandelas initially ruled as feudatories of the [[Gurjara-Pratihara]]s of [[Kanyakubja]] (Kannauj). The 10th century Chandela ruler Harshavarman became the indipendent chandela king, he defeated Rashtrakuta Empire, recrowned pratihara ruler mahipala, while his son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] defeated Pratihara empire. y the time of his successor [[Dhangavarman (Chandel emperor)|Dhanga]], the Chandelas had become a sovereign power. Their power rose and declined as they fought battles with the neighbouring dynasties, especially the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]]s of [[Malwa]] and the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]. From the 11th century onwards, they faced raids by the northern Muslim dynasties, including the [[Ghaznavid]]s and the [[Ghurid]]s. The Chandela power effectively ended around the beginning of the 13th century, following selhiiSultanate ons.<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture, most notably for the temples at their original capital [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]]. They also commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at other places, including their strongholds of [[Ajaigarh]], [[Kalinjar]] and their later capital [[Mahoba]].<br />
<br />
== Origin ==<br />
The origin of the Chandelas is obscured by mythical legends. The epigraphic records of the dynasty, as well as contemporary texts such as ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' and ''Prabodha-chandrodaya'', suggest that the Chandelas belonged to the legendary [[Lunar dynasty]] (''Chandravansha'').{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} A 954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription states that the dynasty's first king [[Nannuka]] was a descendant of sage Chandratreya, who was a son of [[Atri]]. A 1002 CE Khajuraho inscription gives a slightly different account, in which Chandratreya is mentioned as a son of Indu (the Moon) and a grandson of Atri.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} The 1195 CE Baghari inscription and the 1260 CE Ajaygadh inscription contain similar accounts.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=5}} The ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' also names [[Atri]] among the ancestors of the Chandelas. Another Khajuraho inscription describes the Chandela king [[Dhanga]] as a member of the [[Vrishni]] clan of the [[Yadavas]] (who also claimed to be part of the Lunar dynasty).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}}<br />
<br />
[[File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638391942).jpg |thumb|left|upright|Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
The ''Mahoba-Khanda'' legend of the dynasty's origin goes like this: Hemaraja, a priest of the [[Gahadavala|Gaharwar]] king of [[Varanasi|Benares]], had a beautiful daughter named Hemavati. Once, while Hemavati was bathing in a pond, the moon god [[Chandra]] saw her and made love to her. Hemavati was worried about the dishonour of being an unwed mother, but Chandra assured her that their son would become a great king. This child was the dynasty's progenitor Chandravarma. Chandra presented him with a [[philosopher's stone]] and taught him politics.<ref name="Asopa1976">{{cite book |author=Jai Narayan Asopa |title=Origin of the Rajputs |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=I_KznQEACAAJ |year=1976 |publisher=Bharatiya Publishing House |page=208}}</ref>{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} The dynasty's own records do not mention Hemavati, Hemaraja or Indrajit. Such legends appear to be later bardic inventions. In general, the ''Mahoba-Khanda'' is a historically unreliable text.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} ''Prithviraj Raso'' is also considered an historically unreliable text.<ref>{{cite book | editor=K Ayyappap Panikkar | title=Medieval Indian literature: an anthology (Volume 1) | author = Vijayendra Snatak | chapter = Medieval Hindi Literature | chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KYLpvaKJIMEC&pg=PA142 |year=1997 | publisher=Sahitya Akademi | isbn=978-81-260-0365-5 | page=142}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Serving empire, serving nation: James Tod and the Rajputs of Rajasthan |first=Jason |last=Freitag |publisher=BRILL |year=2009 |isbn=978-90-04-17594-5 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ib93BhAu43gC |pages=3–5}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=R. V. Somani |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NcIBAAAAMAAJ |title=History of Mewar, from Earliest Times to 1751 A.D. |publisher=Mateshwari |year=1976 |oclc=2929852 |page= 30}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[File:Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh.jpg|thumb|Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh. [[Metropolitan Museum of Art]].]]<br />
British indologist [[Vincent Arthur Smith|V. A. Smith]] theorized that the Chandelas were of either [[Bhar]] or [[Gondi people|Gond]] origin. Some other scholars including [[R. C. Majumdar]] also supported this theory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=6}} The Chandelas worshipped Maniya, a tribal goddess, whose temples are located at Mahoba and Maniyagadh.<ref name="Ali_2008">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iXVNBAAAQBAJ&pg=PA44 |title=World Heritage Monuments and Related Edifices in India |volume=1 |author=Ali Javid and Tabassum Javeed |publisher=Algora |year=2008 |isbn=9780875864822 |page=44 }}</ref> Besides, they have been associated with places that are also associated with Bhars and Gonds. Also, [[Rani Durgavati]], whose family claimed Chandela descent married a Gond chief of [[Mandla|Garha-Mandla]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Historian R. K. Dikshit does not find these arguments convincing: he argues that Maniya was not a tribal deity.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}} Also, the dynasty's association with Gond territory is not necessarily indicative of a common descent: the dynasty's progenitor may have been posted as a governor in these territories.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Finally, Durgavati's marriage to a Gond chief can be dismissed as a one-off case.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}}<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
<br />
=== Early rulers ===<br />
<br />
The Chandelas were originally vassals of the [[Gurjara-Pratiharas]].<ref>Radhey Shyam Chaurasia, History of Ancient India: Earliest Times to 1000 A. D.</ref> [[Nannuka]] (r. {{Circa|831}}–845 CE), the founder of the dynasty, was the ruler of a small kingdom centered around [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]].<ref>{{cite book |author=Sailendra Sen |title=A Textbook of Medieval Indian History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UdW6lAEACAAJ |year=2013 |publisher=Primus |isbn=978-93-80607-34-4 |page=22}}</ref><br />
<br />
According to the Chandela inscriptions, Nannuka's successor [[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] defeated several enemies.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=27-28}} Vakpati's sons [[Jayashakti]] (Jeja) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vija) consolidated the Chandela power.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=30}} According to a [[Mahoba]] inscription, the Chandela territory was named "Jejakabhukti" after the Jayashakti.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=28}} Vijayashakti's successor [[Rahila]] is credited with several military victories in eulogistic inscriptions.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=30–31}} Rahila's son [[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]] played an important role in restoring the rule of the Pratihara king [[Mahipala I|Mahipala]], possibly after a [[Rashtrakuta]] invasion or after Mahiapala's conflict with his step-brother [[Bhoja II (Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty)|Bhoja II]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=32–35}}<br />
<br />
=== Rise as a sovereign power ===<br />
[[File:Kirtivarman Chandela visits the temple of Khajurahu.jpg|thumb|A 20th century artist's imagination of Kirtivarman Chandela visiting a [[Khajuraho]] temple]]<br />
Harsha's son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] (r. c. 925–950 CE) continued to acknowledge the Pratihara suzerainty, but became practically independent.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=36–37}} He conquered the important fortress of [[Kalanjara]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}} A 953–954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription credits him with several other military successes, including against [[Gauḍa (region)|Gaudas]] (identified with the [[Pala Empire|Palas]]), the [[Khasas]], the [[Chedi Kingdom|Chedis]] (the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]), the [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosalas]] (possibly the [[Somavaṃśī dynasty|Somavamshis]]), the [[Mithila (ancient)|Mithila]] (possibly a small tributary ruler), [[Malwa|Malavas]] (identified with the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramaras]]), the [[Kuru Kingdom|Kurus]], the [[Kasmira Kingdom|Kashmiris]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=42-51}} These claims appear to be exaggerated, as similar claims of extensive conquests in northern India are also found in the records of the other contemporary kings such as the Kalachuri king Yuva-Raja and the Rashtrakuta king [[Krishna III]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=42}} Yashovarman's reign marked the beginning of the famous Chandela-era art and architecture. He commissioned the [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}}<br />
<br />
Unlike the earlier Chandela inscriptions, the records of Yashovarman's successor [[Dhanga]] (r. c. 950–999 CE) do not mention any Pratihara overlord. This indicates that Dhanga formally established the Chandela sovereignty.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=57}} A Khajuraho inscription claims that the rulers of [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosala]], Kratha (part of [[Vidarbha]] region), [[Kuntala country|Kuntala]], and [[Sinhala Kingdom|Simhala]] listened humbly to the commands of Dhanga's officers. It also claims that the wives of the kings of [[Andhra Kingdom|Andhra]], [[Anga]], [[Kanchi Kingdom|Kanchi]] and [[Rarh region|Raḍha]] resided in his prisons as a result of his success in wars. These appear to be eulogistic exaggerations by a court poet, but suggest that Dhanga did undertake extensive military campaigns.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=56}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=61–65}} Like his predecessor, Dhanga also commissioned a magnificent temple at Khajuraho, which is identified as the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=69}}<br />
<br />
Dhanga's successor [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda]] appears to have retained the territory he inherited.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72}} His son [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] killed theking of [[Kannauj]] (possibly Rajyapala) for fleeing his capital instead of fighting the [[Ghaznavid]] invader [[Mahmud of Ghazni]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72–73}}{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=72}} Mahmud later invaded Vidyadhara's kingdom; according to the Muslim invaders, this conflict ended with Vidyadhara paying tribute to Mahmud.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=81–82}} Vidyadhara is noted for having commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=26}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela art and architecture reached its zenith during this period. The [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] (c. 930–950 CE), the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]] (c. 999–1002 CE) and the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] (c. 1030 CE) were constructed during the reigns of Yashovarman, Dhanga and Vidyadhara respectively. These [[Nagara architecture|Nagara-style]] temples are representative of the most fully developed style at Khajuraho.<ref name="James_1994">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LwcBVvdqyBkC&pg=PA234 |title=The Art and Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent |author=James C. Harle |publisher=Yale University Press |year=1994 |page=234 |isbn=0300062176 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Nagara-style temples of Khajuraho"><br />
India-5679 - Flickr - archer10 (Dennis).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]]<br />
File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638423582).jpg|[[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha Temple]]<br />
Vishwanath N-MP-23.jpg | [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]]<br />
A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg | [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
=== Decline ===<br />
[[File:Mahadeva Temple, Khajuraho.jpg|thumb|[[Surasundari]] and [[vyala]], [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
[[File:Le Temple Kandariya Mahadeva (Khajurâho) (8503001895).jpg|thumb|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple|Kandariya Mahadeva temple]] carvings.]]<br />
By the end of Vidyadhara's reign, the [[Ghaznavid]] invasions had weakened the Chandela kingdom. Taking advantage of this, the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]] conquered eastern parts of the kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=89–90}} Chandela inscriptions suggest that Vidyadhara's successor [[Vijayapala]] (r. c. 1035–1050 CE) defeated Gangeya in a battle.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=88}} However, the Chandela power started declining during the Vijayapala's reign.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=101}} The [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghatas]] of [[Gwalior]] probably gave up their allegiance to the Chandelas during this period.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=90}}<br />
<br />
Vijayapala's elder son [[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavavarman]] was subjugated by Gangeya's son [[Lakshmikarna|Lakshmi-Karna]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=91}} His younger brother [[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]] resurrected the Chandela power by defeating Lakshmi-Karna.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=94}} Kirtivarman's son [[Sallakshanavarman]] achieved military successes against the Paramaras and the Kalachuris, possibly by raiding their territories. A [[Mau, Uttar Pradesh|Mau]] inscription suggests that he also conducted successful campaigns in the Antarvedi region (the Ganga-Yamuna [[doab]]).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=120-121}} His son [[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]] was of religious temperament and abdicated the throne after being tired of governance.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=126}}<br />
<br />
Jayavarman appears to have died heirless, as he was succeeded by his uncle [[Prithvivarman]], the younger son of Kirttivarman.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=110–111}} The Chandela inscriptions do not ascribe any military achievements to him; it appears that he was focused on maintaining the existing Chandela territories without adopting an aggressive expansionist policy.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=111}}<br />
<br />
=== Revival ===<br />
<br />
By the time Prithvivarman's son [[Madanavarman]] (r. c. 1128–1165 CE) ascended the throne, the neighbouring [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] and [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] kingdoms had been weakened by enemy invasions. Taking advantage of this situation, Madanavarman defeated the Kalachuri king [[Gayakarna|Gaya-Karna]], and possibly annexed the northern part of the [[Baghelkhand]] region.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132}} However, the Chandelas lost this territory to Gaya-Karna's successor [[Narasimha (Kalachuri dynasty)|Narasimha]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}} Madanavarman also captured the territory on the western periphery of the Paramara kingdom, around [[Bhilsa]] (Vidisha). This probably happened during the reign of the Paramara king [[Yashovarman (Paramara dynasty)|Yashovarman]] or his son [[Jayavarman I (Paramara dynasty)|Jayavarman]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=130–132}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=112-113}} Once again, the Chandelas could not retain the newly annexed territory for long, and the region was recaptured by Yashovarman's son Lakshmivarman.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}}<br />
<br />
[[Jayasimha Siddharaja]], the [[Chaulukya]] king of Gujarat, also invaded the Paramara territory, which was located between the Chandela and the Chaulukya kingdoms. This brought him in conflict with Madanavarman. The result of this conflict appears to have been inconclusive, as records of both the kingdoms claim victory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=133}} A [[Kalanjara]] inscription suggests that Madanavarman defeated Jayasimha. On the other hand, the various chronicles of Gujarat claim that Jayasimha either defeated Madanavarman or extracted a tribute from him.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=133–134}} Madanavarman maintained friendly relations with his northern neighbours, the [[Gahadavala]]s.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132-133}}<br />
<br />
Madanavarman's son [[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]] either did not rule, or ruled for a very short time. Madanavarman's grandson [[Paramardi|Paramardi-deva]] was the last powerful Chandela king.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=130}}<br />
<br />
=== Final decline ===<br />
{{South Asia in 1175||Location of the Chandelas and neighbouring South Asian polities in 1175, on the eve of the [[Ghurid Empire]] invasion of the subcontinent.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=University of Chicago Press |location=Chicago |pages=37, 147|isbn=0226742210 |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/schwartzberg/pager.html?object=074}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Eaton |first1=Richard M. |title=India in the Persianate Age: 1000-1765 |date=25 July 2019 |publisher=Penguin UK |isbn=978-0-14-196655-7 |page=38 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aIF6DwAAQBAJ&pg=PP31 |language=en}}</ref>|{{Annotation|152|90|[[File:Orange dot (semi-transparent).png|35px]]}}}}<br />
[[Paramardi]] (reigned c. 1165-1203 CE) ascended the Chandela throne at a young age. While the early years of his reign were peaceful, around 1182–1183 CE, the [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari|Chahamana]] ruler [[Prithviraj Chauhan]] invaded the Chandela kingdom. According to the medieval legendary ballads, Prithviraj's army lost its way after a surprise attack by ([[Ghurid]]) [[Turkic peoples|Turkic]] forces, and unknowingly camped at the Chandela capital [[Mahoba]]. This led to a brief conflict between the Chandelas and the Chauhans, before Prithviraj left for Delhi. Sometime later, Prithviraj invaded the Chandela kingdom and sacked Mahoba. Paramardi cowardly took shelter in the [[Kalanjara]] fort. The Chandela force, led by [[Alha]], Udal [[banaphar]], rajputs, of Mahoba|Udal]] and other generals, was defeated in this battle. Nowadays [[ahir]], caste claims alha udal but according to historians and alha khand and mahoba khand they belongs to [[banaphar]], clan of [[rajput]], caste and their mother was of [[ahir]], which is why they are called of mixed origin.According to the various ballads, Paramardi either committed suicide out of shame or retired to [[Gaya, India|Gaya]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=120–123}}<br />
<br />
Prithviraj Chauhan's raid of Mahoba is corroborated by his [[Madanpur, Lalitpur, India|Madanpur]] stone inscriptions. However, there are several instances of historical inaccuracies in the bardic legends. For example, it is known that Paramardi did not retire or die immediately after the Chauhan victory. He restored the Chandela power, and ruled as a sovereign until around 1202–1203 CE, when [[Qutb al-Din Aibak]], the [[Ghurid Empire]] governor of [[Delhi]], invaded the Chandela kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=123–126}} According to ''Taj-ul-Maasir'', a chronicle of the [[Delhi Sultanate]], Paramardi surrendered to the Delhi forces. He promised to pay tribute to the Sultan, but died before he could keep this promise. His [[dewan]] offered some resistance to the invading forces, but was ultimately subdued. The 16th century historian [[Firishta]] states that Paramardi was assassinated by his own minister, who disagreed with the king's decision to surrender to the Delhi forces.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela power did not fully recover from their defeat against the Delhi forces. Paramardi was succeeded by [[Trailokyavarman]], [[Viravarman]] and [[Bhojavarman]]. The next ruler [[Hammiravarman]] (r. c. 1288–1311 CE) did not use the imperial title [[Maharajadhiraja]], which indicates that the Chandela king had a lower status by his time. The Chandela power continued to decline because of the rising Muslim influence, as well as the rise of other local dynasties, such as the [[Bundela]]s, the Baghelas and the [[Khangar (community)|Khangars]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=179}}<br />
<br />
Hammiravarman was succeeded by Viravarman II, whose titles do not indicate a high political status.{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}{{sfn|Om Prakash Misra|2003|p=11}} [[Chandelas of Kalanjara (minor Chandela branch)|One minor branch of the family continued ruling Kalanjara]]: its ruler was killed by [[Sher Shah Suri]]'s army in 1545 CE. Another minor branch ruled at [[Mahoba]]: [[Rani Durgavati|Durgavati]], one of its princesses married into the [[Garha Kingdom|Gond]] royal family of [[Mandla]]. Some other ruling families also claimed Chandela descent (see [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]]).{{sfn|Romila Thapar|2013|p=572}}<br />
<br />
== Art and architecture ==<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture. They commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at various places. The most famous example of their cultural achievements are the Hindu and Jain temples at [[Khajuraho]]. Three other important Chandela strongholds were Jayapura-Durga (modern [[Ajaigarh]]), Kalanjara (modern [[Kalinjar]]) and Mahotsava-Nagara (modern [[Mahoba]]).{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela architecture"><br />
Khajuraho Dulhadeo 2010.jpg | Dulhadeo temple, Khajuraho<br />
0B Ajaigarh 4 sides temple.jpg | Ajaigarh temple<br />
Yajna mandap in kulpahar.jpg | A [[yajna]] [[mandapa]] at [[Kulpahar]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
Other smaller Chandela sites include Chandpur, [[Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh|Deogarh]], Dudahi, [[Kakadeo]], Madanpur and [[Aharji Jain Teerth|Aharji]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<ref>{{cite book |last1=Titze |first1=Kurt |last2=Bruhn|first2=Klaus |title=Jainism: A Pictorial Guide to the Religion of Non-Violence |url={{Google books|loQkEIf8z5wC|page=123|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=[[Motilal Banarsidass]] |edition=2 |year=1998 |isbn=978-81-208-1534-6 | page=128 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Reddy |first=P. Chenny | author-link=P. Chenna Reddy |title=Kalyana Mitra: A treasure house of history, culture and archaeological studies | volume=5 |url={{Google books|prCqEAAAQBAJ|page=197|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=Blue Rose Publishers |year=2023 |isbn=978-93-5741-111-0 | page=197 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela sculptures"><br />
Brahma and his consort.jpg | Brahma and his consort, Khajuraho<br />
Ajaygarh Alians ship.jpg | Stone carving, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Neel Swarshwati.jpg | Jain [[tirthankara]]s and [[Sarasvati]], Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh seven heavens of Jain.jpg | Jain heavens, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Shramanas Egyptian style rock cut.jpg | Jain [[shramana]]s, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh treasure sign.jpg | Cattle with treasure sign, Ajaigarh<br />
35. Khajuraho Visvanath apsara.jpg | [[Surasundari]] [[Apsara]], Khajuraho<br />
Khajuraho 126.jpg | Dancing Ganesha, Khajuraho<br />
<br />
Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638393390).jpg | [[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha temple]] carvings<br />
Le Temple de Lakshmana (Khajurâho) (8498182643).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana temple]] carvings<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== List of Rulers==<br />
<br />
Based on epigraphic records, the historians have come up with the following list of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti ([[IAST]] names in brackets):{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=25}}{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=25}}{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+List of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti<br />
! S.N.<br />
! Ruler's regional name ([[IAST]] name in bracket)<br />
! Reign (CE)<br />
|-<br />
|1<br />
|[[Nannuka]]<br />
|831–845<br />
|-<br />
|2<br />
|[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] (Vākpati)<br />
|845–865<br />
|-<br />
|3<br />
|[[Jayashakti]] (Jayaśakti) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vijayaśakti)<br />
|865–885<br />
|-<br />
|4<br />
|[[Rahila]] (Rāhila)<br />
|885–905<br />
|-<br />
|5<br />
|[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Shri Harsha]] (Śri Harśa)<br />
|905–925<br />
|-<br />
|6<br />
|[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman]] (Yaśovarman)<br />
|925–950<br />
|-<br />
|7<br />
|[[Dhangavarman]] <br />
|950–999<br />
|-<br />
|8<br />
|[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda-Deva]] (Gaṇḍadeva)<br />
|999–1002<br />
|-<br />
|9<br />
|[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] (Vidyādhara)<br />
|1003–1035<br />
|-<br />
|10<br />
|[[Vijayapala|Vijaya-Pala]] (Vijayapāla)<br />
|1035–1050<br />
|-<br />
|11<br />
|[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Deva-Varman]]<br />
|1050–1060<br />
|-<br />
|12<br />
|[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirtti-Varman]] (Kīrtivarman)<br />
|1060–1100<br />
|-<br />
|13<br />
|[[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (Sallakṣaṇavarman)<br />
|1100–1110<br />
|-<br />
|14<br />
|[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jaya-Varman]]<br />
|1110–1120<br />
|-<br />
|15<br />
|[[Prithvivarman|Prithvi-Varman]] (Pṛthvīvarman)<br />
|1120–1128<br />
|-<br />
|16<br />
|[[Madanavarman|Madana-Varman]]<br />
|1128–1164<br />
|-<br />
|17<br />
|[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman II]]<br />
|1164–1165<br />
|-<br />
|18<br />
|[[Paramardideva|Paramardi-Deva]]<br />
|1165–1203<br />
|-<br />
|19<br />
|[[Trailokyavarman|Trailokya-Varman]]<br />
|1203–1245<br />
|-<br />
|20<br />
|[[Viravarman|Vira-Varman]] (Vīravarman)<br />
|1245–1285<br />
|-<br />
|21<br />
|[[Bhojavarman|Bhoja-Varman]]<br />
|1285–1288<br />
|-<br />
|22<br />
|[[Hammiravarman|Hammira-Varman]] (Hammīravarman)<br />
|1288–1311<br />
|-<br />
|23<br />
|Vira-Varman II<br />
|1311–1315<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Family tree ==<br />
<br />
{{Chart top|width=100%|collapsed=yes|Chandela dynasty}}<br />
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A01='''[[Nannuka]]'''<br><sup>(1)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 831-845</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]]'''<br><sup>(2)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 845-865</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(3)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Vijayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(4)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Rahila]]'''<br><sup>(5)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 885-905</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]]'''<br><sup>(6)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 905-925</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman I]]'''<br><sup>(7)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 925-950</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Dhanga]]deva'''<br><sup>(8)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 950-999</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandadeva]]'''<br><sup>(9)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 999-1002</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]]'''<br><sup>(10)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1003-1035</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vijayapala]]'''<br><sup>(11)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1035-1050</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavarman]]'''<br><sup>(12)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1050-1060</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]]'''<br><sup>(13)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1060-1100</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Sallakshanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(14)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1100-1110</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Prithvivarman]]'''<br><sup>(16)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1120-1128</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]]'''<br><sup>(15)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1110-1120</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Madanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(17)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1128-1165</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]]'''<br><sup>(18)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Paramardi]]'''<br><sup>(19)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165-1203</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Viravarman]]'''<br><sup>(21)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1245-1285</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03=Child of<br>Yashovarman}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Trailokyavarman]]'''<br><sup>(20)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1203–1245</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Hammiravarman]]'''<br><sup>(23)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1288-1311</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03='''[[Bhojavarman]]'''<br><sup>(22)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1285-1288</small>|boxstyle_A03=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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== See also ==<br />
* [[History of Madhya Pradesh]]<br />
* [[Chandel (Rajput clan)]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kalanjara]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kumaun]]<br />
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== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
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=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Harihar Vitthal Trivedi |title=Inscriptions of the Paramāras (Part 2) |series=Corpus Inscriptionum Indicarum Volume VII: Inscriptions of the Paramāras, Chandēllas, Kachchapaghātas, and two minor dynasties |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8B4LAQAAMAAJ |year=1991 |publisher=[[Archaeological Survey of India]] }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Om Prakash Misra |title=Archaeological Excavations in Central India: Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=o0ISjDDWJwQC&pg=PA11 |year=2003 |publisher=Mittal Publications |isbn=978-81-7099-874-7 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Peter Jackson |author-link=Peter Jackson (historian) |title=The Delhi Sultanate: A Political and Military History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=lt2tqOpVRKgC&pg=PA199 |year=2003 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-0-521-54329-3 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=R. K. Dikshit |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130 |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Romila Thapar |author-link=Romila Thapar |title=The Past Before Us |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aei9AAAAQBAJ&pg=PA571 |year=2013 |publisher=Harvard University Press |isbn=978-0-674-72651-2 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sisirkumar Mitra |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA113 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sushil Kumar Sullerey |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{refend}}<br />
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== External links ==<br />
* {{commons category-inline|Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
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[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti| ]]<br />
[[Category:Medieval Indian dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Hindu dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Bundelkhand]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:9th-century establishments in India]]<br />
[[Category:14th-century disestablishments in India]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chandel_(Rajput_clan)&diff=562164Chandel (Rajput clan)2026-09-15T20:22:06Z<p>Vishvaksena: /* Chand dynasty */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Other uses|Chandelvaṃśa (dynasty) {{!}}Chandel Dynasty}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2019}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=April 2019}}<br />
'''Chandel''' or '''Chandela''' ([[Sanskrit]]: चन्देल, [[IAST]]: Çandela), is a [[Rajput]] clan from [[India]],<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&q=Rajput|title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti|last=Dikshit|first=R. K.|date=1976|publisher=Abhinav Publications|isbn=978-81-7017-046-4|language=en}}</ref> The Chandelas are the highest among the Kshatriyas, and are descendants of the Rigvedic deity Chandra (god of the moon) in Indian traditions and [[epigraphy|epigraphic records]]. Members of the clan historically ruled several kingdoms in north India and held various states, feudal states, estates, and territories. The most prominent of these was the [[Chandel empire|Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]], which ruled the [[Chandel Empire|Chandel Empire]].<br />
<br />
{| class="infobox" style="border: 1px solid #aaa;"<br />
! colspan="2" class="infobox-above" style="color: #ffffff; background-color: darkblue;" |Chandel or Çandela clan<br /><br /><span title="Sanskrit text"><span lang="ja">चन्देलवंश</span></span><br />
|-<br />
| colspan="2" class="infobox-image" |<div class="infobox-caption"></div><br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Home province<br />
| class="infobox-data" |Chedi Mahajapanda <br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Parent house<br />
| class="infobox-data" |[[Chandravansha]]<br /><br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Titles<br />
| class="infobox-data" | Imperial title of Maharajadhiraja (Great king of kings, Rajadhiraja (King of Kings), Maharaja (Great King), Maharajputra, Raja (King), Rana, Rawat, Rao, etc. many<br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Founder<br />
| class="infobox-data" |Chandra, god of moon (as per Indian traditions and epigraphical records)<br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Final ruler<br />
| class="infobox-data" |none, many rulling families<br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Current head<br />
| class="infobox-data" |none, many royal families<br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Founding year<br />
| unknown<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Dissolution<br />
| class="infobox-data" |still extant<br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Ruled until<br />
!-<br />
| class="infobox-data" |1947<br />
|}<br />
[[File:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti. Sallakshana Varman. Circa 1120-1135 CE.jpg|thumb|Gold coins by Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
[[File:Varsha-Kandariya Mahadev Temple -2.jpg|thumb|Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Madhya Pradesh built by the Chandelas between 950 CE and 1050 CE.]]<br />
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==Origin==<br />
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===Early text and inscriptions===<br />
The '''[[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Chandelas]]''' are Bramh-Kshatriyas and synonym and evolved version of [[Kuru Kingdom|Chandravansha]] and [[Kuru Kingdom |Kuru]] clan of [[Rajputs]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} Historians Such as CV Vaidya and [[Gaurishankar Hirachand Ojha|GS Ojha]] consider these Chandel Rajput to be of Pure [[Lunar dynasty|Chandra]] lineage and Highest clan among [[Kshatriya|Kshatriyas]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Yaman ) |first=डॉ अशोक कुमार ‘यमन’ ( Dr Ashok Kumar |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=eT1YEAAAQBAJ&dq=chandel+are+chandravanshi+cv+vaidya&pg=PA13 |title=मध्यकालीन भारतीय संगीत का इतिहास ( Madhyakalin Bharatiya Sangeet ka Itihas ) |date=2022-01-08 |publisher=Kalpana Prakashan |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Pandey |first=Dhanpati |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=EGR2yLsj1DcC&dq=chandel+are+chandravanshi+cv+vaidya&pg=PA220 |title=Pracheen Bharat Ka Rajneetik Aur Sanskritik Itihas |date=1998 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass Publishe |isbn=978-81-208-2380-8 |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Lal |first=Lallu |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=G4AIAAAAQAAJ&dq=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2+%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2&pg=PA122 |title=Premasāgara |date=1882 |publisher=Navalakiśora |language=hi}}</ref><br />
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According to 6th century inscriptions of [[Bilaspur State]] and [[Chedi Kingdom]], a Chandel king Chandravarman became the king of [[Chanderi|Chandeli]], his ancestors rulled Chedi Kingdom continuosly after [[Chedi Kingdom|Chandela]] king [[Shishupala]] of Mahabharata. According ballads, he became the 5th king of Chanderi after the Chandela king [[Hariharvarman]] (Harihar Chand in Pahadi) who was also the ancestors of Bir Chand (founder of Kahlur state in 632 A.D.).<ref>{{Cite book |last=Brentnall |first=Mark |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ayYbAvECXQwC&q=chandel+&pg=PA33 |title=The Princely and Noble Families of the Former Indian Empire: Himachal Pradesh |date=2004 |publisher=Indus Publishing |isbn=978-81-7387-163-4 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Pāṇḍeya |first=Trilocana |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=oZYKAQAAIAAJ&q=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2+%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2 |title=Kumāūm̐ kā loka sāhitya |date=1962 |publisher=Alamoṛā Buka Ḍipo |language=hi}}</ref><br />
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The epigraphic records of the dynasty, as well as contemporary texts such as ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' and ''Prabodha-chandrodaya'', suggest that the Chandelas belonged to the legendary [[Lunar dynasty]] (''Chandravansha'').{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} A 954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription states that the dynasty's first king [[Chandravarman (Chandel ruler)|Chandravarman]] was a descendant of sage Chandratreya (Lord Chandra), who was a son of [[Atri]]. A 1002 CE Khajuraho inscription gives a slightly different account, in which Chandratreya is mentioned as a son of Indu (the Moon) and a grandson of Atri.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} The 1195 CE Baghari inscription and the 1260 CE Ajaygadh inscription contain similar accounts.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=5}} The ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' also names [[Atri]] among the ancestors of the Chandelas.<br />
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[[File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638391942).jpg |thumb|left|upright|Loving couple, [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
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===Local Fairytales===<br />
The ''Mahoba-Khanda'' legend of the dynasty's origin goes like this: Hemaraja, a priest of the [[Gahadavala|Gaharwar]] king of [[Varanasi|Benares]], had a beautiful daughter named Hemavati. Once, while Hemavati was bathing in a pond, the moon god [[Chandra]] saw her and made love to her. Hemavati was worried about the dishonour of being an unwed mother, but Chandra assured her that their son would become a great king. This child was the dynasty's progenitor Chandravarma. Chandra presented him with a [[philosopher's stone]] and taught him politics.<ref name="Asopa1976">{{cite book |author=Jai Narayan Asopa |title=Origin of the Rajputs |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=I_KznQEACAAJ |year=1976 |publisher=Bharatiya Publishing House |page=208}}</ref>{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} The dynasty's own records do not mention Hemavati, Hemaraja or Indrajit. Such legends appear to be later bardic inventions. In general, the ''Mahoba-Khanda'' is a historically unreliable text.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} ''Prithviraj Raso'' is also considered an historically unreliable text.<ref>{{cite book | editor=K Ayyappap Panikkar | title=Medieval Indian literature: an anthology (Volume 1) | author = Vijayendra Snatak | chapter = Medieval Hindi Literature | chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KYLpvaKJIMEC&pg=PA142 |year=1997 | publisher=Sahitya Akademi | isbn=978-81-260-0365-5 | page=142}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Serving empire, serving nation: James Tod and the Rajputs of Rajasthan |first=Jason |last=Freitag |publisher=BRILL |year=2009 |isbn=978-90-04-17594-5 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ib93BhAu43gC |pages=3–5}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=R. V. Somani |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NcIBAAAAMAAJ |title=History of Mewar, from Earliest Times to 1751 A.D. |publisher=Mateshwari |year=1976 |oclc=2929852 |page= 30}}</ref><br />
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[[File:Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh.jpg|thumb|Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh. [[Metropolitan Museum of Art]].]]<br />
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===British theory & debunk===<br />
<br />
The British indologist [[Vincent Arthur Smith|V. A. Smith]] theorised that the Chandelas were of either [[Bhar]] or [[Gondi people|Gond]] origin, this theory was not supported by some scholars including [[Chintaman Vinayak Vaidya|C V Vaidya]] because this Bhar and Gond Origin theory was based on Marriage of Durgavati to a king of Gond kingdom Dalpat shah who was a Gond and son of King Amandas Gond according to Akbarnama.<ref name="Beveridge 1907">{{Cite book|last=Beveridge|first=H.|url=http://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.55649|title=The Akbarnama Of Abul Fazl Vol.2|date=1907}}</ref> After the decline of Kalchuri Rajput remaining Kalchuri Rajput kingdom adopted tribal's which lead to the beginning of Gond Kingdom in which Dalpat Shah Gond was a son of Gond King Amandas Gond.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-08-16|title=Rani Durgavati: The symbol of syncretic culture between Rajputs and Tribals|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/blogs/voices/rani-durgavati-the-symbol-of-syncretic-culture-between-rajputs-and-tribals/|access-date=2022-01-17|website=Times of India Blog|language=en-US}}</ref><ref name="Beveridge 1907" /> Historian R. K. Dikshit also not find Bhar and Gond Origin theory convincing: he argues that Maniya was not a tribal deity.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Dikshit|first=R.K.|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130|title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti|date=1976|publisher=Abhinav Publications|isbn=978-81-7017-046-4|pages=8|language=en}}</ref> Also, the dynasty's association with Gond territory is not necessarily indicative of a common descent: the dynasty's progenitor may have been posted as a governor in these territories.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Dikshit|first=R. K.|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130|title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti|date=1976|publisher=Abhinav Publications|isbn=978-81-7017-046-4|pages=7|language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==History==<br />
===Mahameghvahana Dynasty===<br />
'''[[Mahameghavahana dynasty]]''', Rule: 1st century BC to early 4th century BC<ref name="Sahu">{{Cite journal|last=Sahu|first=J. K.|date=1977|journal=Proceedings of the Indian History Congress|volume=38|pages=49–54|issn=2249-1937|jstor=44139050|title=The Meghas of Kosala}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in/bitstream/10603/187259/13/13_chapter%202.pdf|title=The Meghas of Kosala|last=Sahu|first=J.K.|date=1977|website=shodhganga}}</ref>) was an ancient Indian dynasty of Kalinga after the fall of the Maurya Empire.<ref>For a map of their territory see: {{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=University of Chicago Press |location=Chicago |page=145, map XIV.1 (f)|isbn=0226742210 |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/schwartzberg/pager.html?object=182}}</ref> In the 1st century BCE, Mahameghavahana Varman, a Chandravanshi Aila/Chandela king of the [[Chedi Empire|Chedi]] Mahajanapada, conquered [[Kalinga]] and [[Kosala]].<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.282457|title=Tribes in Ancient India|last=L Bhagawandas Gandhi|date=1927}}</ref> He belonged to the [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel clan]] of the Kshatriyas.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Taṇḍana |first=Premanārāyaṇa |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=a0shAAAAMAAJ&q=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF+%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE+%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2&dq=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF+%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE+%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwieq52v2LaBAxWG1GEKHX_kClE4ChDoAXoECAQQAw#%E0%A4%9A%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF%20%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE%20%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2 |title=ब्रजभाषा सूर-कोश: Nirdeśaka Dīnadayālu Gupta |date=1962 |publisher=Lakhanaū Viśvavidyālaya |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Dikshit |first=R. K. |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q=V%E1%B9%9B%E1%B9%A3%E1%B9%87%C4%ABs&f=false |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |date=1976 |publisher=Abhinav Publications |isbn=978-81-7017-046-4 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Verma |first=Dr Shyam Bahadur |url=https://books.google.com/books/about/Prabhat_Brihat_Hindi_Shabdakosh_Vol_1.html?id=hr9Zl_7g8HAC |title=Prabhat Brihat Hindi Shabdakosh (Vol-1): Bestseller Book by Dr Shyam Bahadur Verma: Prabhat Brihat Hindi Shabdakosh) |date=2010-01-01 |publisher=Prabhat Prakashan |isbn=978-81-7315-769-1 |language=hi}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite book |last=Kapoor |first=Badrinath |url=https://books.google.com/books/about/Brihat_Pramanik_Hindi_Kosh.html?id=hkmDkkI5JYYC |title=Brihat Pramanik Hindi Kosh |date=2006-09-01 |publisher=Lokbharti Prakashan |isbn=978-81-8031-057-7 |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Thakur ‘Bipin’ |first=Dr Bindeshwari Prasad |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=2Ht3EAAAQBAJ&pg=PA502&dq=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2+%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiikYfu2baBAxUddfUHHTlyCisQ6AF6BAgGEAM#v=onepage&q=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2%20%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2&f=false |title=BHARTIYA SANSKRITI KE GAKAAR PRATEEK |publisher=Sarv Bhasha Trust |isbn=978-93-93605-21-4 |language=hi}}</ref><ref name="MajumdarBhavan1951">{{cite book |author=[[Ramesh Chandra Majumdar]] |title=The History and Culture of the Indian People: The age of imperial unity; 2d ed. 1953 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=-3dDAAAAYAAJ |year=1951 |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Society |first=Bihar and Orissa Research |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=IahEAQAAMAAJ&q=kharavela+chakravarti&dq=kharavela+chakravarti&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjgorSBt66BAxWSPXAKHWHvDBAQ6AF6BAgNEAM#kharavela%20chakravarti |title=Journal of the Bihar and Orissa Research Society |date=1917 |publisher=The Society |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=M2Pr0PCTYV4C&q=kharavela+Agramahishi&dq=kharavela+Agramahishi&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjY4Ze-tq6BAxXYO3AKHaXqBHwQ6AF6BAgOEAM#kharavela%20Agramahishi |title=Journal of the Andhra Historical Research Society |date=1946 |publisher=Andhra Historical Research Society |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Bilaspur State===<br />
According to Bilaspur Past and Present, Bilaspur Gazetteer and Ganesh Singh's book Chandravansh Vilas and Shashivansh Vinod confirm that the foundation of Kahlur Princely State was laid by Chandel prince Bir Chand (Birvarman), His father who reigned [[Chedi Kingdom|Chedi]] to northern [[Mahismati]] region from Chanderi, Hariharvarman Chandel (Harihar Chand) [[Chanderi]]) made his son Govindvarman Chandel the king of [[Chanderi]] and in old age came north with his son Birvarman and other 3.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ayYbAvECXQwC&pg=PA50 |title=The Princely and Noble Families of the Former Indian Empire: Himachal Pradesh |author=Mark Brentnall |publisher=Indus |year=2005 |isbn=9788173871634 |page=50 52 }}</ref><br />
<br />
===Chand dynasty===<br />
{{Main article|Chand dynasty}}<br />
[[File:Fort and the capital city of Kali Kumaon, Champawat, 1815.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Fort and the capital city of Kali Kumaon, [[Champawat]], 1815.]]<br />
<br />
The '''Chand Dynasty''' [[Hindi|संस्कृत]]: चन्द राजवंश), sometimes '''Chandel of Kumaon'''<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Viyogi |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GwzlFdW6kloC&dq=Chandel+or+Chand+of+Kumaon&pg=PA412 |title=History Of The Later Harappans And Silpakara Movement (2 Vols.) |last2=Ansari |first2=Naval & M. Anawar |date=2010 |publisher=Gyan Publishing House |isbn=978-81-7835-751-5 |language=en}}</ref> or '''Chand Kingdom''', was a Chandel dynasty of [[Kumaon Kingdom|Kumaon]], which was established by displacing the [[Katyuri kings]]. The Chands ruled over the [[Kumaon Kingdom|Kumaon]] and parts of the Farwestern [[Nepal]] called [[Doti]] (present-day [[Sudurpashchim Province]]).<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Acharya |first=Baburam |date=December 1, 1976 |title=Prithvi Narayan Shah |journal=Regmi Research Series |pages=225}}</ref> Thee dynasty was founded by Somvanshi Chandel Yadava prince Som Chand (Somvarman, the son of Kabirvarman Chandel or Kabir Chand).<ref>{{Cite book |last=Handa |first=O. C. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=XTfmGNfaoC4C |title=Art & Architecture of Uttarakhand |date=July 2009 |publisher=Pentagon Press |isbn=978-81-8274-417-2 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=eS6gtbhj9cIC |title=Census of India, 1991: Una |date=1995 |publisher=Controller of Publications |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|last=Tyagi |first=Nutan |date=1991 |title= Hill Resorts of U.P. Himalaya|publisher=Indus publications |pages=63|isbn=9788185182629 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=fcrieQdY3Y0C&dq=Chand+dynasty+rajput&pg=PA63}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Chandelas of Jejakabhukti===<br />
<br />
The Chandel Empire of Jejakabhukti, also known as [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]] was a famous [[Hindu|Indian]] dynasty, which ruled North India from the 8th-14th century AD. The Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti was founded by the [[Chandel|Chandel Rajput]] king Nannukavarman, also known as [[Nannuka|Chandravarman]]. They ruled from [[Mahoba]], [[Jejakabhukti]], [[Uttar Pradesh]]. The [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]] emperors of [[Jejakabhukti country|Jejakabhukti]] were not only successful conquerors and efficient rulers but also had more inclination towards architecture, religion and love.<br />
[[File:Map of Candellas around 1200 CE.jpg| thumb|Map of Chandel dynasty in 1200 CE... The Chandel Empire during its decline around 1202 A.D.]]<br />
{{sfn| Early Rulers of Khajur (Second Revised Edition)}}{{sfn| Edwin Thomas Atkinson|1971|p=504}}{{sfn|Kuśa rājavaṃśa pradīpa|kr̥shṇapāla Siṃha, Rāma Sahāya Brahma Bhaṭṭa, Baśīra Ahamada | 1976|p=55}}{{sfn|Nimara ka samskrtika itihasa|Ramnarayan Upadhyay |1980|p=17}}<br />
<br />
===Chandels of Mirzapur===<br />
<br />
Bijaigarh in modern [[Mirzapur district]] of Eastern [[Uttar Pradesh]] was ruled by a family of Chandel Rajputs who traced their line to the Burhur Chandels of Rewa. They were notable for their conflict with the [[Bhumihar]]s of [[Benares state]] and for participating in the [[Indian rebellion of 1857]].<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Downs |first1=Troy |title=Rajput revolt in Southern Mirzapur, 1857–58 |journal=Journal of South Asian Studies |date=1992 |pages=29-46 |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00856409208723166}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Zaildari===<br />
<br />
A group of Chandel families claiming a common origin once held the [[zaildar]]is of Ghund, Madhan, and [[Theog]] in present-day [[Himachal Pradesh]]. According to their tradition, their ancestor migrated from [[Chanderi]] to [[Kahlur|Bilaspur]]. After three generations, his descendants moved to Ram Sarai in the [[Garhwal division|Garhwal region]]. After another four generations, four brothers from the family moved to the [[Shimla district|Shimla region]].<br />
<br />
The eldest brother became administrator of Madhan; the third youngest - Jai Chand - became the administrator of Theog; and the youngest became the administrator of Ghund.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ayYbAvECXQwC&pg=PA284 |title=The Princely and Noble Families of the Former Indian Empire: Himachal Pradesh |author=Mark Brentnall |publisher=Indus |year=2005 |isbn=9788173871634 |page=284 }}</ref><br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
===Bibliography===<br />
<br />
*<br />
{{cite book|author=R. K. Dikshit|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA3|title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti|publisher=Abhinav|year=1976|isbn=9788170170464}}<br />
*{{cite book|last=Sen|first=Shailendra Nath|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Wk4_ICH_g1EC&pg=PA172|title=Ancient Indian History and Civilization|publisher=New Age International|year=1999|isbn=9788122411980}}<br />
<br />
{{Rajput Groups of India}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Rajput clans of Madhya Pradesh]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput clans of Uttar Pradesh]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput clans of Bihar]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput clans of Himachal Pradesh]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput clans of Kumaon]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chandel_(Rajput_clan)&diff=562160Chandel (Rajput clan)2026-09-15T19:15:09Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Other uses|Chandelvaṃśa (dynasty) {{!}}Chandel Dynasty}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2019}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=April 2019}}<br />
'''Chandel''' or '''Chandela''' ([[Sanskrit]]: चन्देल, [[IAST]]: Çandela), is a [[Rajput]] clan from [[India]],<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&q=Rajput|title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti|last=Dikshit|first=R. K.|date=1976|publisher=Abhinav Publications|isbn=978-81-7017-046-4|language=en}}</ref> The Chandelas are the highest among the Kshatriyas, and are descendants of the Rigvedic deity Chandra (god of the moon) in Indian traditions and [[epigraphy|epigraphic records]]. Members of the clan historically ruled several kingdoms in north India and held various states, feudal states, estates, and territories. The most prominent of these was the [[Chandel empire|Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]], which ruled the [[Chandel Empire|Chandel Empire]].<br />
<br />
{| class="infobox" style="border: 1px solid #aaa;"<br />
! colspan="2" class="infobox-above" style="color: #ffffff; background-color: darkblue;" |Chandel or Çandela clan<br /><br /><span title="Sanskrit text"><span lang="ja">चन्देलवंश</span></span><br />
|-<br />
| colspan="2" class="infobox-image" |<div class="infobox-caption"></div><br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Home province<br />
| class="infobox-data" |Chedi Mahajapanda <br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Parent house<br />
| class="infobox-data" |[[Chandravansha]]<br /><br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Titles<br />
| class="infobox-data" | Imperial title of Maharajadhiraja (Great king of kings, Rajadhiraja (King of Kings), Maharaja (Great King), Maharajputra, Raja (King), Rana, Rawat, Rao, etc. many<br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Founder<br />
| class="infobox-data" |Chandra, god of moon (as per Indian traditions and epigraphical records)<br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Final ruler<br />
| class="infobox-data" |none, many rulling families<br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Current head<br />
| class="infobox-data" |none, many royal families<br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Founding year<br />
| unknown<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Dissolution<br />
| class="infobox-data" |still extant<br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Ruled until<br />
!-<br />
| class="infobox-data" |1947<br />
|}<br />
[[File:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti. Sallakshana Varman. Circa 1120-1135 CE.jpg|thumb|Gold coins by Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
[[File:Varsha-Kandariya Mahadev Temple -2.jpg|thumb|Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Madhya Pradesh built by the Chandelas between 950 CE and 1050 CE.]]<br />
<br />
==Origin==<br />
<br />
===Early text and inscriptions===<br />
The '''[[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Chandelas]]''' are Bramh-Kshatriyas and synonym and evolved version of [[Kuru Kingdom|Chandravansha]] and [[Kuru Kingdom |Kuru]] clan of [[Rajputs]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} Historians Such as CV Vaidya and [[Gaurishankar Hirachand Ojha|GS Ojha]] consider these Chandel Rajput to be of Pure [[Lunar dynasty|Chandra]] lineage and Highest clan among [[Kshatriya|Kshatriyas]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Yaman ) |first=डॉ अशोक कुमार ‘यमन’ ( Dr Ashok Kumar |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=eT1YEAAAQBAJ&dq=chandel+are+chandravanshi+cv+vaidya&pg=PA13 |title=मध्यकालीन भारतीय संगीत का इतिहास ( Madhyakalin Bharatiya Sangeet ka Itihas ) |date=2022-01-08 |publisher=Kalpana Prakashan |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Pandey |first=Dhanpati |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=EGR2yLsj1DcC&dq=chandel+are+chandravanshi+cv+vaidya&pg=PA220 |title=Pracheen Bharat Ka Rajneetik Aur Sanskritik Itihas |date=1998 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass Publishe |isbn=978-81-208-2380-8 |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Lal |first=Lallu |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=G4AIAAAAQAAJ&dq=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2+%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2&pg=PA122 |title=Premasāgara |date=1882 |publisher=Navalakiśora |language=hi}}</ref><br />
<br />
According to 6th century inscriptions of [[Bilaspur State]] and [[Chedi Kingdom]], a Chandel king Chandravarman became the king of [[Chanderi|Chandeli]], his ancestors rulled Chedi Kingdom continuosly after [[Chedi Kingdom|Chandela]] king [[Shishupala]] of Mahabharata. According ballads, he became the 5th king of Chanderi after the Chandela king [[Hariharvarman]] (Harihar Chand in Pahadi) who was also the ancestors of Bir Chand (founder of Kahlur state in 632 A.D.).<ref>{{Cite book |last=Brentnall |first=Mark |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ayYbAvECXQwC&q=chandel+&pg=PA33 |title=The Princely and Noble Families of the Former Indian Empire: Himachal Pradesh |date=2004 |publisher=Indus Publishing |isbn=978-81-7387-163-4 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Pāṇḍeya |first=Trilocana |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=oZYKAQAAIAAJ&q=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2+%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2 |title=Kumāūm̐ kā loka sāhitya |date=1962 |publisher=Alamoṛā Buka Ḍipo |language=hi}}</ref><br />
<br />
The epigraphic records of the dynasty, as well as contemporary texts such as ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' and ''Prabodha-chandrodaya'', suggest that the Chandelas belonged to the legendary [[Lunar dynasty]] (''Chandravansha'').{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} A 954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription states that the dynasty's first king [[Chandravarman (Chandel ruler)|Chandravarman]] was a descendant of sage Chandratreya (Lord Chandra), who was a son of [[Atri]]. A 1002 CE Khajuraho inscription gives a slightly different account, in which Chandratreya is mentioned as a son of Indu (the Moon) and a grandson of Atri.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} The 1195 CE Baghari inscription and the 1260 CE Ajaygadh inscription contain similar accounts.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=5}} The ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' also names [[Atri]] among the ancestors of the Chandelas.<br />
<br />
[[File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638391942).jpg |thumb|left|upright|Loving couple, [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
<br />
===Local Fairytales===<br />
The ''Mahoba-Khanda'' legend of the dynasty's origin goes like this: Hemaraja, a priest of the [[Gahadavala|Gaharwar]] king of [[Varanasi|Benares]], had a beautiful daughter named Hemavati. Once, while Hemavati was bathing in a pond, the moon god [[Chandra]] saw her and made love to her. Hemavati was worried about the dishonour of being an unwed mother, but Chandra assured her that their son would become a great king. This child was the dynasty's progenitor Chandravarma. Chandra presented him with a [[philosopher's stone]] and taught him politics.<ref name="Asopa1976">{{cite book |author=Jai Narayan Asopa |title=Origin of the Rajputs |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=I_KznQEACAAJ |year=1976 |publisher=Bharatiya Publishing House |page=208}}</ref>{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} The dynasty's own records do not mention Hemavati, Hemaraja or Indrajit. Such legends appear to be later bardic inventions. In general, the ''Mahoba-Khanda'' is a historically unreliable text.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} ''Prithviraj Raso'' is also considered an historically unreliable text.<ref>{{cite book | editor=K Ayyappap Panikkar | title=Medieval Indian literature: an anthology (Volume 1) | author = Vijayendra Snatak | chapter = Medieval Hindi Literature | chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KYLpvaKJIMEC&pg=PA142 |year=1997 | publisher=Sahitya Akademi | isbn=978-81-260-0365-5 | page=142}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Serving empire, serving nation: James Tod and the Rajputs of Rajasthan |first=Jason |last=Freitag |publisher=BRILL |year=2009 |isbn=978-90-04-17594-5 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ib93BhAu43gC |pages=3–5}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=R. V. Somani |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NcIBAAAAMAAJ |title=History of Mewar, from Earliest Times to 1751 A.D. |publisher=Mateshwari |year=1976 |oclc=2929852 |page= 30}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[File:Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh.jpg|thumb|Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh. [[Metropolitan Museum of Art]].]]<br />
<br />
===British theory & debunk===<br />
<br />
The British indologist [[Vincent Arthur Smith|V. A. Smith]] theorised that the Chandelas were of either [[Bhar]] or [[Gondi people|Gond]] origin, this theory was not supported by some scholars including [[Chintaman Vinayak Vaidya|C V Vaidya]] because this Bhar and Gond Origin theory was based on Marriage of Durgavati to a king of Gond kingdom Dalpat shah who was a Gond and son of King Amandas Gond according to Akbarnama.<ref name="Beveridge 1907">{{Cite book|last=Beveridge|first=H.|url=http://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.55649|title=The Akbarnama Of Abul Fazl Vol.2|date=1907}}</ref> After the decline of Kalchuri Rajput remaining Kalchuri Rajput kingdom adopted tribal's which lead to the beginning of Gond Kingdom in which Dalpat Shah Gond was a son of Gond King Amandas Gond.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-08-16|title=Rani Durgavati: The symbol of syncretic culture between Rajputs and Tribals|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/blogs/voices/rani-durgavati-the-symbol-of-syncretic-culture-between-rajputs-and-tribals/|access-date=2022-01-17|website=Times of India Blog|language=en-US}}</ref><ref name="Beveridge 1907" /> Historian R. K. Dikshit also not find Bhar and Gond Origin theory convincing: he argues that Maniya was not a tribal deity.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Dikshit|first=R.K.|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130|title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti|date=1976|publisher=Abhinav Publications|isbn=978-81-7017-046-4|pages=8|language=en}}</ref> Also, the dynasty's association with Gond territory is not necessarily indicative of a common descent: the dynasty's progenitor may have been posted as a governor in these territories.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Dikshit|first=R. K.|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130|title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti|date=1976|publisher=Abhinav Publications|isbn=978-81-7017-046-4|pages=7|language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==History==<br />
===Mahameghvahana Dynasty===<br />
'''[[Mahameghavahana dynasty]]''', Rule: 1st century BC to early 4th century BC<ref name="Sahu">{{Cite journal|last=Sahu|first=J. K.|date=1977|journal=Proceedings of the Indian History Congress|volume=38|pages=49–54|issn=2249-1937|jstor=44139050|title=The Meghas of Kosala}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in/bitstream/10603/187259/13/13_chapter%202.pdf|title=The Meghas of Kosala|last=Sahu|first=J.K.|date=1977|website=shodhganga}}</ref>) was an ancient Indian dynasty of Kalinga after the fall of the Maurya Empire.<ref>For a map of their territory see: {{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=University of Chicago Press |location=Chicago |page=145, map XIV.1 (f)|isbn=0226742210 |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/schwartzberg/pager.html?object=182}}</ref> In the 1st century BCE, Mahameghavahana Varman, a Chandravanshi Aila/Chandela king of the [[Chedi Empire|Chedi]] Mahajanapada, conquered [[Kalinga]] and [[Kosala]].<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.282457|title=Tribes in Ancient India|last=L Bhagawandas Gandhi|date=1927}}</ref> He belonged to the [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel clan]] of the Kshatriyas.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Taṇḍana |first=Premanārāyaṇa |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=a0shAAAAMAAJ&q=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF+%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE+%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2&dq=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF+%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE+%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwieq52v2LaBAxWG1GEKHX_kClE4ChDoAXoECAQQAw#%E0%A4%9A%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF%20%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE%20%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2 |title=ब्रजभाषा सूर-कोश: Nirdeśaka Dīnadayālu Gupta |date=1962 |publisher=Lakhanaū Viśvavidyālaya |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Dikshit |first=R. K. |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q=V%E1%B9%9B%E1%B9%A3%E1%B9%87%C4%ABs&f=false |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |date=1976 |publisher=Abhinav Publications |isbn=978-81-7017-046-4 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Verma |first=Dr Shyam Bahadur |url=https://books.google.com/books/about/Prabhat_Brihat_Hindi_Shabdakosh_Vol_1.html?id=hr9Zl_7g8HAC |title=Prabhat Brihat Hindi Shabdakosh (Vol-1): Bestseller Book by Dr Shyam Bahadur Verma: Prabhat Brihat Hindi Shabdakosh) |date=2010-01-01 |publisher=Prabhat Prakashan |isbn=978-81-7315-769-1 |language=hi}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite book |last=Kapoor |first=Badrinath |url=https://books.google.com/books/about/Brihat_Pramanik_Hindi_Kosh.html?id=hkmDkkI5JYYC |title=Brihat Pramanik Hindi Kosh |date=2006-09-01 |publisher=Lokbharti Prakashan |isbn=978-81-8031-057-7 |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Thakur ‘Bipin’ |first=Dr Bindeshwari Prasad |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=2Ht3EAAAQBAJ&pg=PA502&dq=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2+%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiikYfu2baBAxUddfUHHTlyCisQ6AF6BAgGEAM#v=onepage&q=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2%20%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2&f=false |title=BHARTIYA SANSKRITI KE GAKAAR PRATEEK |publisher=Sarv Bhasha Trust |isbn=978-93-93605-21-4 |language=hi}}</ref><ref name="MajumdarBhavan1951">{{cite book |author=[[Ramesh Chandra Majumdar]] |title=The History and Culture of the Indian People: The age of imperial unity; 2d ed. 1953 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=-3dDAAAAYAAJ |year=1951 |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Society |first=Bihar and Orissa Research |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=IahEAQAAMAAJ&q=kharavela+chakravarti&dq=kharavela+chakravarti&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjgorSBt66BAxWSPXAKHWHvDBAQ6AF6BAgNEAM#kharavela%20chakravarti |title=Journal of the Bihar and Orissa Research Society |date=1917 |publisher=The Society |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=M2Pr0PCTYV4C&q=kharavela+Agramahishi&dq=kharavela+Agramahishi&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjY4Ze-tq6BAxXYO3AKHaXqBHwQ6AF6BAgOEAM#kharavela%20Agramahishi |title=Journal of the Andhra Historical Research Society |date=1946 |publisher=Andhra Historical Research Society |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Bilaspur State===<br />
According to Bilaspur Past and Present, Bilaspur Gazetteer and Ganesh Singh's book Chandravansh Vilas and Shashivansh Vinod confirm that the foundation of Kahlur Princely State was laid by Chandel prince Bir Chand (Birvarman), His father who reigned [[Chedi Kingdom|Chedi]] to northern [[Mahismati]] region from Chanderi, Hariharvarman Chandel (Harihar Chand) [[Chanderi]]) made his son Govindvarman Chandel the king of [[Chanderi]] and in old age came north with his son Birvarman and other 3.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ayYbAvECXQwC&pg=PA50 |title=The Princely and Noble Families of the Former Indian Empire: Himachal Pradesh |author=Mark Brentnall |publisher=Indus |year=2005 |isbn=9788173871634 |page=50 52 }}</ref><br />
<br />
===Chand dynasty===<br />
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[[File:Fort and the capital city of Kali Kumaon, Champawat, 1815.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Fort and the capital city of Kali Kumaon, [[Champawat]], 1815.]]<br />
<br />
The '''Chand Dynasty''' [[Hindi|संस्कृत]]: चन्द राजवंश), sometimes '''Chandel of Kumaon'''<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Viyogi |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GwzlFdW6kloC&dq=Chandel+or+Chand+of+Kumaon&pg=PA412 |title=History Of The Later Harappans And Silpakara Movement (2 Vols.) |last2=Ansari |first2=Naval & M. Anawar |date=2010 |publisher=Gyan Publishing House |isbn=978-81-7835-751-5 |language=en}}</ref> or '''Chand Kingdom''', was a Chandel dynasty of [[Kumaon Kingdom|Kumaon]], which was established by displacing the [[Katyuri kings]]. The Chands ruled over the [[Kumaon Kingdom|Kumaon]] and parts of the Farwestern [[Nepal]] called [[Doti]] (present-day [[Sudurpashchim Province]]).<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Acharya |first=Baburam |date=December 1, 1976 |title=Prithvi Narayan Shah |journal=Regmi Research Series |pages=225}}</ref> Thee dynasty was founded by Somvanshi Chandel Yadava prince Som Chand (Somvarman, the son of Kabirvarman Chandel or Kabir Chand).<ref>{{Cite book |last=Handa |first=O. C. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=XTfmGNfaoC4C |title=Art & Architecture of Uttarakhand |date=July 2009 |publisher=Pentagon Press |isbn=978-81-8274-417-2 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=eS6gtbhj9cIC |title=Census of India, 1991: Una |date=1995 |publisher=Controller of Publications |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|last=Tyagi |first=Nutan |date=1991 |title= Hill Resorts of U.P. Himalaya|publisher=Indus publications |pages=63|isbn=9788185182629 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=fcrieQdY3Y0C&dq=Chand+dynasty+rajput&pg=PA63}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Chandelas of Jejakabhukti===<br />
<br />
The Chandel Empire of Jejakabhukti, also known as [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]] was a famous [[Hindu|Indian]] dynasty, which ruled North India from the 8th-14th century AD. The Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti was founded by the [[Chandel|Chandel Rajput]] king Nannukavarman, also known as [[Nannuka|Chandravarman]]. They ruled from [[Mahoba]], [[Jejakabhukti]], [[Uttar Pradesh]]. The [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]] emperors of [[Jejakabhukti country|Jejakabhukti]] were not only successful conquerors and efficient rulers but also had more inclination towards architecture, religion and love.<br />
[[File:Map of Candellas around 1200 CE.jpg| thumb|Map of Chandel dynasty in 1200 CE... The Chandel Empire during its decline around 1202 A.D.]]<br />
{{sfn| Early Rulers of Khajur (Second Revised Edition)}}{{sfn| Edwin Thomas Atkinson|1971|p=504}}{{sfn|Kuśa rājavaṃśa pradīpa|kr̥shṇapāla Siṃha, Rāma Sahāya Brahma Bhaṭṭa, Baśīra Ahamada | 1976|p=55}}{{sfn|Nimara ka samskrtika itihasa|Ramnarayan Upadhyay |1980|p=17}}<br />
<br />
===Chandels of Mirzapur===<br />
<br />
Bijaigarh in modern [[Mirzapur district]] of Eastern [[Uttar Pradesh]] was ruled by a family of Chandel Rajputs who traced their line to the Burhur Chandels of Rewa. They were notable for their conflict with the [[Bhumihar]]s of [[Benares state]] and for participating in the [[Indian rebellion of 1857]].<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Downs |first1=Troy |title=Rajput revolt in Southern Mirzapur, 1857–58 |journal=Journal of South Asian Studies |date=1992 |pages=29-46 |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00856409208723166}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Zaildari===<br />
<br />
A group of Chandel families claiming a common origin once held the [[zaildar]]is of Ghund, Madhan, and [[Theog]] in present-day [[Himachal Pradesh]]. According to their tradition, their ancestor migrated from [[Chanderi]] to [[Kahlur|Bilaspur]]. After three generations, his descendants moved to Ram Sarai in the [[Garhwal division|Garhwal region]]. After another four generations, four brothers from the family moved to the [[Shimla district|Shimla region]].<br />
<br />
The eldest brother became administrator of Madhan; the third youngest - Jai Chand - became the administrator of Theog; and the youngest became the administrator of Ghund.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ayYbAvECXQwC&pg=PA284 |title=The Princely and Noble Families of the Former Indian Empire: Himachal Pradesh |author=Mark Brentnall |publisher=Indus |year=2005 |isbn=9788173871634 |page=284 }}</ref><br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
===Bibliography===<br />
<br />
*<br />
{{cite book|author=R. K. Dikshit|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA3|title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti|publisher=Abhinav|year=1976|isbn=9788170170464}}<br />
*{{cite book|last=Sen|first=Shailendra Nath|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Wk4_ICH_g1EC&pg=PA172|title=Ancient Indian History and Civilization|publisher=New Age International|year=1999|isbn=9788122411980}}<br />
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{{Rajput Groups of India}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Rajput clans of Madhya Pradesh]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput clans of Uttar Pradesh]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput clans of Bihar]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput clans of Himachal Pradesh]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput clans of Kumaon]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chandel_(Rajput_clan)&diff=562159Chandel (Rajput clan)2026-09-15T19:13:13Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Other uses|Chandelvaṃśa (dynasty) {{!}}Chandel Dynasty}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2019}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=April 2019}}<br />
'''Chandel''' or '''Chandela''' ([[Sanskrit]]: चन्देल, [[IAST]]: Çandela), is a [[Rajput]] clan from [[India]],<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&q=Rajput|title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti|last=Dikshit|first=R. K.|date=1976|publisher=Abhinav Publications|isbn=978-81-7017-046-4|language=en}}</ref> The Chandelas are the highest among the Kshatriyas, and are descendants of the Rigvedic deity Chandra (god of the moon) in Indian traditions and [[epigraphy|epigraphic records]]. Members of the clan historically ruled several kingdoms in north India and held various states, feudal states, estates, and territories. The most prominent of these was the [[Chandel empire|Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]], which ruled the [[Chandela Empire|Chandel Empire]].<br />
<br />
{| class="infobox" style="border: 1px solid #aaa;"<br />
! colspan="2" class="infobox-above" style="color: #ffffff; background-color: darkblue;" |Chandel or Çandela clan<br /><br /><span title="Sanskrit text"><span lang="ja">चन्देलवंश</span></span><br />
|-<br />
| colspan="2" class="infobox-image" |<div class="infobox-caption"></div><br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Home province<br />
| class="infobox-data" |Chedi Mahajapanda <br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Parent house<br />
| class="infobox-data" |[[Chandravansha]]<br /><br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Titles<br />
| class="infobox-data" | Imperial title of Maharajadhiraja (Great king of kings, Rajadhiraja (King of Kings), Maharaja (Great King), Maharajputra, Raja (King), Rana, Rawat, Rao, etc. many<br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Founder<br />
| class="infobox-data" |Chandra, god of moon (as per Indian traditions and epigraphical records)<br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Final ruler<br />
| class="infobox-data" |none, many rulling families<br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Current head<br />
| class="infobox-data" |none, many royal families<br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Founding year<br />
| unknown<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Dissolution<br />
| class="infobox-data" |still extant<br />
|-<br />
! class="infobox-label" scope="row" |Ruled until<br />
!-<br />
| class="infobox-data" |1947<br />
|}<br />
[[File:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti. Sallakshana Varman. Circa 1120-1135 CE.jpg|thumb|Gold coins by Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
[[File:Varsha-Kandariya Mahadev Temple -2.jpg|thumb|Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Madhya Pradesh built by the Chandelas between 950 CE and 1050 CE.]]<br />
<br />
==Origin==<br />
<br />
===Early text and inscriptions===<br />
The '''[[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Chandelas]]''' are Bramh-Kshatriyas and synonym and evolved version of [[Kuru Kingdom|Chandravansha]] and [[Kuru Kingdom |Kuru]] clan of [[Rajputs]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} Historians Such as CV Vaidya and [[Gaurishankar Hirachand Ojha|GS Ojha]] consider these Chandel Rajput to be of Pure [[Lunar dynasty|Chandra]] lineage and Highest clan among [[Kshatriya|Kshatriyas]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Yaman ) |first=डॉ अशोक कुमार ‘यमन’ ( Dr Ashok Kumar |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=eT1YEAAAQBAJ&dq=chandel+are+chandravanshi+cv+vaidya&pg=PA13 |title=मध्यकालीन भारतीय संगीत का इतिहास ( Madhyakalin Bharatiya Sangeet ka Itihas ) |date=2022-01-08 |publisher=Kalpana Prakashan |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Pandey |first=Dhanpati |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=EGR2yLsj1DcC&dq=chandel+are+chandravanshi+cv+vaidya&pg=PA220 |title=Pracheen Bharat Ka Rajneetik Aur Sanskritik Itihas |date=1998 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass Publishe |isbn=978-81-208-2380-8 |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Lal |first=Lallu |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=G4AIAAAAQAAJ&dq=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2+%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2&pg=PA122 |title=Premasāgara |date=1882 |publisher=Navalakiśora |language=hi}}</ref><br />
<br />
According to 6th century inscriptions of [[Bilaspur State]] and [[Chedi Kingdom]], a Chandel king Chandravarman became the king of [[Chanderi|Chandeli]], his ancestors rulled Chedi Kingdom continuosly after [[Chedi Kingdom|Chandela]] king [[Shishupala]] of Mahabharata. According ballads, he became the 5th king of Chanderi after the Chandela king [[Hariharvarman]] (Harihar Chand in Pahadi) who was also the ancestors of Bir Chand (founder of Kahlur state in 632 A.D.).<ref>{{Cite book |last=Brentnall |first=Mark |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ayYbAvECXQwC&q=chandel+&pg=PA33 |title=The Princely and Noble Families of the Former Indian Empire: Himachal Pradesh |date=2004 |publisher=Indus Publishing |isbn=978-81-7387-163-4 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Pāṇḍeya |first=Trilocana |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=oZYKAQAAIAAJ&q=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2+%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2 |title=Kumāūm̐ kā loka sāhitya |date=1962 |publisher=Alamoṛā Buka Ḍipo |language=hi}}</ref><br />
<br />
The epigraphic records of the dynasty, as well as contemporary texts such as ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' and ''Prabodha-chandrodaya'', suggest that the Chandelas belonged to the legendary [[Lunar dynasty]] (''Chandravansha'').{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} A 954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription states that the dynasty's first king [[Chandravarman (Chandel ruler)|Chandravarman]] was a descendant of sage Chandratreya (Lord Chandra), who was a son of [[Atri]]. A 1002 CE Khajuraho inscription gives a slightly different account, in which Chandratreya is mentioned as a son of Indu (the Moon) and a grandson of Atri.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} The 1195 CE Baghari inscription and the 1260 CE Ajaygadh inscription contain similar accounts.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=5}} The ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' also names [[Atri]] among the ancestors of the Chandelas.<br />
<br />
[[File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638391942).jpg |thumb|left|upright|Loving couple, [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
<br />
===Local Fairytales===<br />
The ''Mahoba-Khanda'' legend of the dynasty's origin goes like this: Hemaraja, a priest of the [[Gahadavala|Gaharwar]] king of [[Varanasi|Benares]], had a beautiful daughter named Hemavati. Once, while Hemavati was bathing in a pond, the moon god [[Chandra]] saw her and made love to her. Hemavati was worried about the dishonour of being an unwed mother, but Chandra assured her that their son would become a great king. This child was the dynasty's progenitor Chandravarma. Chandra presented him with a [[philosopher's stone]] and taught him politics.<ref name="Asopa1976">{{cite book |author=Jai Narayan Asopa |title=Origin of the Rajputs |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=I_KznQEACAAJ |year=1976 |publisher=Bharatiya Publishing House |page=208}}</ref>{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} The dynasty's own records do not mention Hemavati, Hemaraja or Indrajit. Such legends appear to be later bardic inventions. In general, the ''Mahoba-Khanda'' is a historically unreliable text.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} ''Prithviraj Raso'' is also considered an historically unreliable text.<ref>{{cite book | editor=K Ayyappap Panikkar | title=Medieval Indian literature: an anthology (Volume 1) | author = Vijayendra Snatak | chapter = Medieval Hindi Literature | chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KYLpvaKJIMEC&pg=PA142 |year=1997 | publisher=Sahitya Akademi | isbn=978-81-260-0365-5 | page=142}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Serving empire, serving nation: James Tod and the Rajputs of Rajasthan |first=Jason |last=Freitag |publisher=BRILL |year=2009 |isbn=978-90-04-17594-5 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ib93BhAu43gC |pages=3–5}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=R. V. Somani |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NcIBAAAAMAAJ |title=History of Mewar, from Earliest Times to 1751 A.D. |publisher=Mateshwari |year=1976 |oclc=2929852 |page= 30}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[File:Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh.jpg|thumb|Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh. [[Metropolitan Museum of Art]].]]<br />
<br />
===British theory & debunk===<br />
<br />
The British indologist [[Vincent Arthur Smith|V. A. Smith]] theorised that the Chandelas were of either [[Bhar]] or [[Gondi people|Gond]] origin, this theory was not supported by some scholars including [[Chintaman Vinayak Vaidya|C V Vaidya]] because this Bhar and Gond Origin theory was based on Marriage of Durgavati to a king of Gond kingdom Dalpat shah who was a Gond and son of King Amandas Gond according to Akbarnama.<ref name="Beveridge 1907">{{Cite book|last=Beveridge|first=H.|url=http://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.55649|title=The Akbarnama Of Abul Fazl Vol.2|date=1907}}</ref> After the decline of Kalchuri Rajput remaining Kalchuri Rajput kingdom adopted tribal's which lead to the beginning of Gond Kingdom in which Dalpat Shah Gond was a son of Gond King Amandas Gond.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-08-16|title=Rani Durgavati: The symbol of syncretic culture between Rajputs and Tribals|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/blogs/voices/rani-durgavati-the-symbol-of-syncretic-culture-between-rajputs-and-tribals/|access-date=2022-01-17|website=Times of India Blog|language=en-US}}</ref><ref name="Beveridge 1907" /> Historian R. K. Dikshit also not find Bhar and Gond Origin theory convincing: he argues that Maniya was not a tribal deity.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Dikshit|first=R.K.|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130|title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti|date=1976|publisher=Abhinav Publications|isbn=978-81-7017-046-4|pages=8|language=en}}</ref> Also, the dynasty's association with Gond territory is not necessarily indicative of a common descent: the dynasty's progenitor may have been posted as a governor in these territories.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Dikshit|first=R. K.|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130|title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti|date=1976|publisher=Abhinav Publications|isbn=978-81-7017-046-4|pages=7|language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==History==<br />
===Mahameghvahana Dynasty===<br />
'''[[Mahameghavahana dynasty]]''', Rule: 1st century BC to early 4th century BC<ref name="Sahu">{{Cite journal|last=Sahu|first=J. K.|date=1977|journal=Proceedings of the Indian History Congress|volume=38|pages=49–54|issn=2249-1937|jstor=44139050|title=The Meghas of Kosala}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in/bitstream/10603/187259/13/13_chapter%202.pdf|title=The Meghas of Kosala|last=Sahu|first=J.K.|date=1977|website=shodhganga}}</ref>) was an ancient Indian dynasty of Kalinga after the fall of the Maurya Empire.<ref>For a map of their territory see: {{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=University of Chicago Press |location=Chicago |page=145, map XIV.1 (f)|isbn=0226742210 |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/schwartzberg/pager.html?object=182}}</ref> In the 1st century BCE, Mahameghavahana Varman, a Chandravanshi Aila/Chandela king of the [[Chedi Empire|Chedi]] Mahajanapada, conquered [[Kalinga]] and [[Kosala]].<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.282457|title=Tribes in Ancient India|last=L Bhagawandas Gandhi|date=1927}}</ref> He belonged to the [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel clan]] of the Kshatriyas.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Taṇḍana |first=Premanārāyaṇa |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=a0shAAAAMAAJ&q=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF+%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE+%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2&dq=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF+%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE+%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwieq52v2LaBAxWG1GEKHX_kClE4ChDoAXoECAQQAw#%E0%A4%9A%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF%20%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE%20%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2 |title=ब्रजभाषा सूर-कोश: Nirdeśaka Dīnadayālu Gupta |date=1962 |publisher=Lakhanaū Viśvavidyālaya |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Dikshit |first=R. K. |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q=V%E1%B9%9B%E1%B9%A3%E1%B9%87%C4%ABs&f=false |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |date=1976 |publisher=Abhinav Publications |isbn=978-81-7017-046-4 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Verma |first=Dr Shyam Bahadur |url=https://books.google.com/books/about/Prabhat_Brihat_Hindi_Shabdakosh_Vol_1.html?id=hr9Zl_7g8HAC |title=Prabhat Brihat Hindi Shabdakosh (Vol-1): Bestseller Book by Dr Shyam Bahadur Verma: Prabhat Brihat Hindi Shabdakosh) |date=2010-01-01 |publisher=Prabhat Prakashan |isbn=978-81-7315-769-1 |language=hi}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite book |last=Kapoor |first=Badrinath |url=https://books.google.com/books/about/Brihat_Pramanik_Hindi_Kosh.html?id=hkmDkkI5JYYC |title=Brihat Pramanik Hindi Kosh |date=2006-09-01 |publisher=Lokbharti Prakashan |isbn=978-81-8031-057-7 |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Thakur ‘Bipin’ |first=Dr Bindeshwari Prasad |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=2Ht3EAAAQBAJ&pg=PA502&dq=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2+%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiikYfu2baBAxUddfUHHTlyCisQ6AF6BAgGEAM#v=onepage&q=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2%20%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2&f=false |title=BHARTIYA SANSKRITI KE GAKAAR PRATEEK |publisher=Sarv Bhasha Trust |isbn=978-93-93605-21-4 |language=hi}}</ref><ref name="MajumdarBhavan1951">{{cite book |author=[[Ramesh Chandra Majumdar]] |title=The History and Culture of the Indian People: The age of imperial unity; 2d ed. 1953 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=-3dDAAAAYAAJ |year=1951 |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Society |first=Bihar and Orissa Research |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=IahEAQAAMAAJ&q=kharavela+chakravarti&dq=kharavela+chakravarti&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjgorSBt66BAxWSPXAKHWHvDBAQ6AF6BAgNEAM#kharavela%20chakravarti |title=Journal of the Bihar and Orissa Research Society |date=1917 |publisher=The Society |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=M2Pr0PCTYV4C&q=kharavela+Agramahishi&dq=kharavela+Agramahishi&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjY4Ze-tq6BAxXYO3AKHaXqBHwQ6AF6BAgOEAM#kharavela%20Agramahishi |title=Journal of the Andhra Historical Research Society |date=1946 |publisher=Andhra Historical Research Society |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Bilaspur State===<br />
According to Bilaspur Past and Present, Bilaspur Gazetteer and Ganesh Singh's book Chandravansh Vilas and Shashivansh Vinod confirm that the foundation of Kahlur Princely State was laid by Chandel prince Bir Chand (Birvarman), His father who reigned [[Chedi Kingdom|Chedi]] to northern [[Mahismati]] region from Chanderi, Hariharvarman Chandel (Harihar Chand) [[Chanderi]]) made his son Govindvarman Chandel the king of [[Chanderi]] and in old age came north with his son Birvarman and other 3.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ayYbAvECXQwC&pg=PA50 |title=The Princely and Noble Families of the Former Indian Empire: Himachal Pradesh |author=Mark Brentnall |publisher=Indus |year=2005 |isbn=9788173871634 |page=50 52 }}</ref><br />
<br />
===Chand dynasty===<br />
<br />
[[File:Fort and the capital city of Kali Kumaon, Champawat, 1815.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Fort and the capital city of Kali Kumaon, [[Champawat]], 1815.]]<br />
<br />
The '''Chand Dynasty''' [[Hindi|संस्कृत]]: चन्द राजवंश), sometimes '''Chandel of Kumaon'''<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Viyogi |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GwzlFdW6kloC&dq=Chandel+or+Chand+of+Kumaon&pg=PA412 |title=History Of The Later Harappans And Silpakara Movement (2 Vols.) |last2=Ansari |first2=Naval & M. Anawar |date=2010 |publisher=Gyan Publishing House |isbn=978-81-7835-751-5 |language=en}}</ref> or '''Chand Kingdom''', was a Chandel dynasty of [[Kumaon Kingdom|Kumaon]], which was established by displacing the [[Katyuri kings]]. The Chands ruled over the [[Kumaon Kingdom|Kumaon]] and parts of the Farwestern [[Nepal]] called [[Doti]] (present-day [[Sudurpashchim Province]]).<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Acharya |first=Baburam |date=December 1, 1976 |title=Prithvi Narayan Shah |journal=Regmi Research Series |pages=225}}</ref> Thee dynasty was founded by Somvanshi Chandel Yadava prince Som Chand (Somvarman, the son of Kabirvarman Chandel or Kabir Chand).<ref>{{Cite book |last=Handa |first=O. C. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=XTfmGNfaoC4C |title=Art & Architecture of Uttarakhand |date=July 2009 |publisher=Pentagon Press |isbn=978-81-8274-417-2 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=eS6gtbhj9cIC |title=Census of India, 1991: Una |date=1995 |publisher=Controller of Publications |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|last=Tyagi |first=Nutan |date=1991 |title= Hill Resorts of U.P. Himalaya|publisher=Indus publications |pages=63|isbn=9788185182629 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=fcrieQdY3Y0C&dq=Chand+dynasty+rajput&pg=PA63}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Chandelas of Jejakabhukti===<br />
<br />
The Chandel Empire of Jejakabhukti, also known as [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]] was a famous [[Hindu|Indian]] dynasty, which ruled North India from the 8th-14th century AD. The Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti was founded by the [[Chandel|Chandel Rajput]] king Nannukavarman, also known as [[Nannuka|Chandravarman]]. They ruled from [[Mahoba]], [[Jejakabhukti]], [[Uttar Pradesh]]. The [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]] emperors of [[Jejakabhukti country|Jejakabhukti]] were not only successful conquerors and efficient rulers but also had more inclination towards architecture, religion and love.<br />
[[File:Map of Candellas around 1200 CE.jpg| thumb|Map of Chandel dynasty in 1200 CE... The Chandel Empire during its decline around 1202 A.D.]]<br />
{{sfn| Early Rulers of Khajur (Second Revised Edition)}}{{sfn| Edwin Thomas Atkinson|1971|p=504}}{{sfn|Kuśa rājavaṃśa pradīpa|kr̥shṇapāla Siṃha, Rāma Sahāya Brahma Bhaṭṭa, Baśīra Ahamada | 1976|p=55}}{{sfn|Nimara ka samskrtika itihasa|Ramnarayan Upadhyay |1980|p=17}}<br />
<br />
===Chandels of Mirzapur===<br />
<br />
Bijaigarh in modern [[Mirzapur district]] of Eastern [[Uttar Pradesh]] was ruled by a family of Chandel Rajputs who traced their line to the Burhur Chandels of Rewa. They were notable for their conflict with the [[Bhumihar]]s of [[Benares state]] and for participating in the [[Indian rebellion of 1857]].<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Downs |first1=Troy |title=Rajput revolt in Southern Mirzapur, 1857–58 |journal=Journal of South Asian Studies |date=1992 |pages=29-46 |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00856409208723166}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Zaildari===<br />
<br />
A group of Chandel families claiming a common origin once held the [[zaildar]]is of Ghund, Madhan, and [[Theog]] in present-day [[Himachal Pradesh]]. According to their tradition, their ancestor migrated from [[Chanderi]] to [[Kahlur|Bilaspur]]. After three generations, his descendants moved to Ram Sarai in the [[Garhwal division|Garhwal region]]. After another four generations, four brothers from the family moved to the [[Shimla district|Shimla region]].<br />
<br />
The eldest brother became administrator of Madhan; the third youngest - Jai Chand - became the administrator of Theog; and the youngest became the administrator of Ghund.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ayYbAvECXQwC&pg=PA284 |title=The Princely and Noble Families of the Former Indian Empire: Himachal Pradesh |author=Mark Brentnall |publisher=Indus |year=2005 |isbn=9788173871634 |page=284 }}</ref><br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
===Bibliography===<br />
<br />
*<br />
{{cite book|author=R. K. Dikshit|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA3|title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti|publisher=Abhinav|year=1976|isbn=9788170170464}}<br />
*{{cite book|last=Sen|first=Shailendra Nath|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Wk4_ICH_g1EC&pg=PA172|title=Ancient Indian History and Civilization|publisher=New Age International|year=1999|isbn=9788122411980}}<br />
<br />
{{Rajput Groups of India}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Rajput clans of Madhya Pradesh]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput clans of Uttar Pradesh]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput clans of Bihar]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput clans of Himachal Pradesh]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput clans of Kumaon]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chandel_dynasty&diff=562157Chandel dynasty2026-09-15T19:05:46Z<p>Vishvaksena: Unsourced</p>
<hr />
<div>{{use Indian English|date=May 2024}}<br />
{{ Infobox family<br />
|name = Chandel (चन्देल)<br />
|native_name = Aila dynasty <br />
|native_name_lang =<br />
|other_names = Chandravansha<br />
|type = Royal family<br />
|coat_of_arms = <br />
|coat_of_arms_size = <br />
|alt = <br />
|coat_of_arms_caption = <br />
|image = <br />
|image_size = <br />
|alt2 = <br />
|image_caption = <br />
|parent_family = Purus<br />
|country = Jejakabhukti <br />
|region = <br />
|early_forms = <br />
|etymology = Chand+Ael->Chandel<br>चन्द+ऐल->चन्देल<br />
|origin = Chedi Mahajanpada <br />
|founded = <br />
|founder = <br />
|current_head = <br />
|final_ruler = <br />
|current_head = <br />
| seat = <br />
| historic_seat = Suktimati<Jejakabhukti><br />
|titles = Chakravarti Samrat<br>Maharajadhiraja<br />
|styles = <br />
|members = <br />
|connected_members = <br />
|other_families = <br />
|distinctions = <br />
|traditions = Hinduism<br />
|motto = <br />
|motto_lang = <br />
|motto_trans = <br />
|heirlooms = <br />
|estate = Agori Barhar, Gidhaur, Moradabad, Rampur, Bilaspur (Kahlur)<br />
|properties = <br />
|dissolution = <br />
|deposition = <br />
|cadet_branches = [[Pallava dynasty]]<br />
|website = <br />
|footnotes = <br />
}}<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Chandel''' or the '''Chandela''',<ref>{{Cite book |last=Dikshit |first=R. K. |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q=V%E1%B9%9B%E1%B9%A3%E1%B9%87%C4%ABs&f=false |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |date=1976 |publisher=Abhinav Publications |isbn=978-81-7017-046-4 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=GwzlFdW6kloC&pg=PA412&dq=Offshoot+of+Yadavas+Chand&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiLpu_LxZT-AhUQTWwGHQt_AJoQ6AF6BAgDEAM|title=History Of The Later Harappans And Silpakara Movement (2 Vols.)|last=Viyogi|last2=Ansari|first2=Naval & M. Anawar|date=2010|publisher=Gyan Publishing House|isbn=978-81-7835-751-5|language=en}}</ref>({{lang-hi|चन्देल |lit=Chand:moon + El/Aila: scion of [[Ila goddess|Ila.]]}})<ref><nowiki>https://books.google.co.in/books?id=5jpuAAAAMAAJ&q=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2+%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%BE+%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A5&dq=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2+%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%BE+%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A5&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjbnqyeyamDAxVVw6ACHaS1C_sQ6AF6BAgMEAM#%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2</nowiki></ref><ref><nowiki>https://books.google.co.in/books?id=6xQ-AAAAMAAJ&q=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2+%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%AC%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6+%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%BE+%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A5&dq=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2+%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%AC%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6+%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%BE+%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A5&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjRopyDyamDAxUnyqACHVmCApQQ6AF6BAgFEAM#%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2%20%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A5</nowiki></ref> is a prominent race of the [[Rajput|Rajputs]]. They are regarded as the highest race among the Kshatriyas as well as the head of the [[Moon|Chandravansha]]. Families belonging to this clan ruled many states in India and occupied various feudal estates. The most notable of these families was the [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Chandel Empire of Jejakabhukti]], who ruled many almost entire India from 10th to 15th century from their capital in [[Jejakabhukti|Jejakabhukti country]].<br />
<br />
==Name==<br />
The word Chandel is made up of two words, (Chand+Ael) Chand meaning [[Moon]] and Ael meaning direct descendant of Goddess [[Ila]], grand-daughter of [[Surya]].<br />
==Reference==</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chandel_Empire_of_Jejakabhukti&diff=562156Chandel Empire of Jejakabhukti2026-09-15T19:04:45Z<p>Vishvaksena: Removed redirect to Chandel Empire</p>
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<div>{{Short description|Late medieval Hindu dynasty of India (800-16th c.)}}<br />
{{pp-extended|small=yes}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=March 2013}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2022}}<br />
{{Infobox country<br />
|conventional_long_name = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
|common_name = Chandela<br />
|era = [[Medieval India]]<br />
|government_type = Monarchy<br />
|year_start = {{Circa|early 9th c.}}<br />
|year_end = 16th c.<br />
|p1 = Kalachuris of Tripuri<br />
| s1 = Mamluk dynasty (Delhi)<br />
| s2 = Mughal Empire <br />
|image_map = Map of the Candellas.png<br />
|image_map_caption = Territory of the Chandelas during the reign of [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] circa 1025 CE.<ref name="JS">{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical Atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=Oxford University Press, Digital South Asia Library|author-link=Joseph E. Schwartzberg |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/cgi-bin/reference/schwartzberg/query.py?display_type=image_display&object=183#gsc.tab=0|page=146, Map "j"}}</ref><br />
|map_width = 300px<br />
|capital = {{ubl|[[Khajuraho]]|[[Kalanjara]]|[[Mahoba]]}}<br />
|common_languages = [[Sanskrit]]<br />
|religion = {{ubl|[[Hinduism]]|[[Jainism]]}}<br />
|today = [[India]]<br />
| image_coat = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti. Sallakshana Varman. Circa 1120-1135 CE.jpg<br />
| coa_size = 280px<br />
| symbol_type = Coinage of [[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (1120–1135 CE), Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
}}<br />
<br />
The '''Chandel Empire''' ([[Nagari]]: चन्देल साम्राज्य, [[IAST]]: Çandela empire) was an [[Indian]] empire during the [[medieval India|medieval period]] of the Indian subcontinent which existed from the 9th century to the 16th century CE. At its peak, the dynasty ruled over an empire that spanned much of the northern Indian subcontinent, with its country called [[Jejakabhukti (Chandela country)|Jejakabhukti]]. The ruling dynasty of the empire was founded by the Chandela ruler [[Nannuka|Nannuka Varman]], who established [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]] in the early 9th century. The dynasty belonged to the [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]] clan of the [[Rajput|Rajputs]].<ref>*{{Cite book |author=Upinder Singh|author-link=Upinder Singh|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7DRuAAAAMAAJ |title=The Discovery of Ancient India: Early Archaeologists and the Beginnings of Archaeology |date=2004 |publisher=Permanent Black |isbn=978-81-7824-088-6|page=73|quote=Discussion of the histories of various Rajput clans, such as the Chauhans, Kachhvahas, Chandelas, Pratiharas and Tomaras on the basis of a wide range of sources-literary, epigraphic, numismatic, bardic accounts and local traditions|language=en}}<br />
*{{Cite book|last1=Kulke|first1=Hermann|author-link1=Hermann Kulke|last2=Rothermund|first2=Dietmar |author-link2=Dietmar Rothermund|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TPVq3ykHyH4C|title=A History of India|date=2004|publisher=Psychology Press|isbn=978-0-415-32919-4|language=en|page=117|quote="When Gurjara Pratiharas power declined after the sacking of Kannauj by the Rashtrakutas in the early tenth century many Rajput princes declared their independence and founded their own kingdoms, some of which grew to importance in the subsequent two centuries. The better known among those dynasties were the Chaulukyas or Solankis of Gujarat and Kathiawar, the Chahamanas (i.e. Chauhans) of eastern Rajasthan (Ajmer and Jodhpur) and the Tomaras who had founded Delhi (Dhillika) in 736 but had been displaced by the Chauhans in the twelfth century. Rajput descent was also claimed by the Chandelas of Khujuraho and the Kalachuris of Tripuri"}}<br />
*{{Cite book |author=Romila Thapar|author-link=Romila Thapar|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=i6cwDwAAQBAJ |title=Early India: From the Origins to AD 1300 |date=2004|publisher=University of California Press |isbn=978-0-520-24225-8 |page=420|quote=Other claiming to be Rajputs and descended from the solar and lunar lines, established themselves as local kings in various parts of western and central India. Among them were the Chandellas, prominent in the tenth century in Bundelkhand with their centre at Khajuraho and their territory known as Jejakabhukti|language=en}}<br />
*{{harvnb|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=8}}: "The Candellas are undoubtedly a Rajput clan and the epigraphic evidences does not show that any inferiority was applied to them in the past. It reveals their matrimonial relationship with important Rajput families from the very beginning of their history"</ref><br />
<br />
The Chandelas initially ruled as feudatories of the [[Gurjara-Pratihara]]s of [[Kanyakubja]] (Kannauj). The 10th century Chandela ruler Harshavarman became the indipendent chandela king, he defeated Rashtrakuta Empire, recrowned pratihara ruler mahipala, while his son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] defeated Pratihara empire. y the time of his successor [[Dhangavarman (Chandel emperor)|Dhanga]], the Chandelas had become a sovereign power. Their power rose and declined as they fought battles with the neighbouring dynasties, especially the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]]s of [[Malwa]] and the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]. From the 11th century onwards, they faced raids by the northern Muslim dynasties, including the [[Ghaznavid]]s and the [[Ghurid]]s. The Chandela power effectively ended around the beginning of the 13th century, following selhiiSultanate ons.<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture, most notably for the temples at their original capital [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]]. They also commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at other places, including their strongholds of [[Ajaigarh]], [[Kalinjar]] and their later capital [[Mahoba]].<br />
<br />
== Origin ==<br />
The origin of the Chandelas is obscured by mythical legends. The epigraphic records of the dynasty, as well as contemporary texts such as ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' and ''Prabodha-chandrodaya'', suggest that the Chandelas belonged to the legendary [[Lunar dynasty]] (''Chandravansha'').{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} A 954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription states that the dynasty's first king [[Nannuka]] was a descendant of sage Chandratreya, who was a son of [[Atri]]. A 1002 CE Khajuraho inscription gives a slightly different account, in which Chandratreya is mentioned as a son of Indu (the Moon) and a grandson of Atri.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} The 1195 CE Baghari inscription and the 1260 CE Ajaygadh inscription contain similar accounts.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=5}} The ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' also names [[Atri]] among the ancestors of the Chandelas. Another Khajuraho inscription describes the Chandela king [[Dhanga]] as a member of the [[Vrishni]] clan of the [[Yadavas]] (who also claimed to be part of the Lunar dynasty).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}}<br />
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[[File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638391942).jpg |thumb|left|upright|Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
The ''Mahoba-Khanda'' legend of the dynasty's origin goes like this: Hemaraja, a priest of the [[Gahadavala|Gaharwar]] king of [[Varanasi|Benares]], had a beautiful daughter named Hemavati. Once, while Hemavati was bathing in a pond, the moon god [[Chandra]] saw her and made love to her. Hemavati was worried about the dishonour of being an unwed mother, but Chandra assured her that their son would become a great king. This child was the dynasty's progenitor Chandravarma. Chandra presented him with a [[philosopher's stone]] and taught him politics.<ref name="Asopa1976">{{cite book |author=Jai Narayan Asopa |title=Origin of the Rajputs |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=I_KznQEACAAJ |year=1976 |publisher=Bharatiya Publishing House |page=208}}</ref>{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} The dynasty's own records do not mention Hemavati, Hemaraja or Indrajit. Such legends appear to be later bardic inventions. In general, the ''Mahoba-Khanda'' is a historically unreliable text.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} ''Prithviraj Raso'' is also considered an historically unreliable text.<ref>{{cite book | editor=K Ayyappap Panikkar | title=Medieval Indian literature: an anthology (Volume 1) | author = Vijayendra Snatak | chapter = Medieval Hindi Literature | chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KYLpvaKJIMEC&pg=PA142 |year=1997 | publisher=Sahitya Akademi | isbn=978-81-260-0365-5 | page=142}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Serving empire, serving nation: James Tod and the Rajputs of Rajasthan |first=Jason |last=Freitag |publisher=BRILL |year=2009 |isbn=978-90-04-17594-5 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ib93BhAu43gC |pages=3–5}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=R. V. Somani |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NcIBAAAAMAAJ |title=History of Mewar, from Earliest Times to 1751 A.D. |publisher=Mateshwari |year=1976 |oclc=2929852 |page= 30}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[File:Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh.jpg|thumb|Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh. [[Metropolitan Museum of Art]].]]<br />
British indologist [[Vincent Arthur Smith|V. A. Smith]] theorized that the Chandelas were of either [[Bhar]] or [[Gondi people|Gond]] origin. Some other scholars including [[R. C. Majumdar]] also supported this theory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=6}} The Chandelas worshipped Maniya, a tribal goddess, whose temples are located at Mahoba and Maniyagadh.<ref name="Ali_2008">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iXVNBAAAQBAJ&pg=PA44 |title=World Heritage Monuments and Related Edifices in India |volume=1 |author=Ali Javid and Tabassum Javeed |publisher=Algora |year=2008 |isbn=9780875864822 |page=44 }}</ref> Besides, they have been associated with places that are also associated with Bhars and Gonds. Also, [[Rani Durgavati]], whose family claimed Chandela descent married a Gond chief of [[Mandla|Garha-Mandla]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Historian R. K. Dikshit does not find these arguments convincing: he argues that Maniya was not a tribal deity.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}} Also, the dynasty's association with Gond territory is not necessarily indicative of a common descent: the dynasty's progenitor may have been posted as a governor in these territories.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Finally, Durgavati's marriage to a Gond chief can be dismissed as a one-off case.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}}<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
<br />
=== Early rulers ===<br />
<br />
The Chandelas were originally vassals of the [[Gurjara-Pratiharas]].<ref>Radhey Shyam Chaurasia, History of Ancient India: Earliest Times to 1000 A. D.</ref> [[Nannuka]] (r. {{Circa|831}}–845 CE), the founder of the dynasty, was the ruler of a small kingdom centered around [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]].<ref>{{cite book |author=Sailendra Sen |title=A Textbook of Medieval Indian History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UdW6lAEACAAJ |year=2013 |publisher=Primus |isbn=978-93-80607-34-4 |page=22}}</ref><br />
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According to the Chandela inscriptions, Nannuka's successor [[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] defeated several enemies.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=27-28}} Vakpati's sons [[Jayashakti]] (Jeja) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vija) consolidated the Chandela power.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=30}} According to a [[Mahoba]] inscription, the Chandela territory was named "Jejakabhukti" after the Jayashakti.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=28}} Vijayashakti's successor [[Rahila]] is credited with several military victories in eulogistic inscriptions.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=30–31}} Rahila's son [[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]] played an important role in restoring the rule of the Pratihara king [[Mahipala I|Mahipala]], possibly after a [[Rashtrakuta]] invasion or after Mahiapala's conflict with his step-brother [[Bhoja II (Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty)|Bhoja II]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=32–35}}<br />
<br />
=== Rise as a sovereign power ===<br />
[[File:Kirtivarman Chandela visits the temple of Khajurahu.jpg|thumb|A 20th century artist's imagination of Kirtivarman Chandela visiting a [[Khajuraho]] temple]]<br />
Harsha's son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] (r. c. 925–950 CE) continued to acknowledge the Pratihara suzerainty, but became practically independent.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=36–37}} He conquered the important fortress of [[Kalanjara]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}} A 953–954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription credits him with several other military successes, including against [[Gauḍa (region)|Gaudas]] (identified with the [[Pala Empire|Palas]]), the [[Khasas]], the [[Chedi Kingdom|Chedis]] (the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]), the [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosalas]] (possibly the [[Somavaṃśī dynasty|Somavamshis]]), the [[Mithila (ancient)|Mithila]] (possibly a small tributary ruler), [[Malwa|Malavas]] (identified with the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramaras]]), the [[Kuru Kingdom|Kurus]], the [[Kasmira Kingdom|Kashmiris]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=42-51}} These claims appear to be exaggerated, as similar claims of extensive conquests in northern India are also found in the records of the other contemporary kings such as the Kalachuri king Yuva-Raja and the Rashtrakuta king [[Krishna III]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=42}} Yashovarman's reign marked the beginning of the famous Chandela-era art and architecture. He commissioned the [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}}<br />
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Unlike the earlier Chandela inscriptions, the records of Yashovarman's successor [[Dhanga]] (r. c. 950–999 CE) do not mention any Pratihara overlord. This indicates that Dhanga formally established the Chandela sovereignty.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=57}} A Khajuraho inscription claims that the rulers of [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosala]], Kratha (part of [[Vidarbha]] region), [[Kuntala country|Kuntala]], and [[Sinhala Kingdom|Simhala]] listened humbly to the commands of Dhanga's officers. It also claims that the wives of the kings of [[Andhra Kingdom|Andhra]], [[Anga]], [[Kanchi Kingdom|Kanchi]] and [[Rarh region|Raḍha]] resided in his prisons as a result of his success in wars. These appear to be eulogistic exaggerations by a court poet, but suggest that Dhanga did undertake extensive military campaigns.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=56}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=61–65}} Like his predecessor, Dhanga also commissioned a magnificent temple at Khajuraho, which is identified as the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=69}}<br />
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Dhanga's successor [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda]] appears to have retained the territory he inherited.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72}} His son [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] killed theking of [[Kannauj]] (possibly Rajyapala) for fleeing his capital instead of fighting the [[Ghaznavid]] invader [[Mahmud of Ghazni]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72–73}}{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=72}} Mahmud later invaded Vidyadhara's kingdom; according to the Muslim invaders, this conflict ended with Vidyadhara paying tribute to Mahmud.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=81–82}} Vidyadhara is noted for having commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=26}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela art and architecture reached its zenith during this period. The [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] (c. 930–950 CE), the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]] (c. 999–1002 CE) and the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] (c. 1030 CE) were constructed during the reigns of Yashovarman, Dhanga and Vidyadhara respectively. These [[Nagara architecture|Nagara-style]] temples are representative of the most fully developed style at Khajuraho.<ref name="James_1994">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LwcBVvdqyBkC&pg=PA234 |title=The Art and Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent |author=James C. Harle |publisher=Yale University Press |year=1994 |page=234 |isbn=0300062176 }}</ref><br />
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<gallery mode="packed" caption="Nagara-style temples of Khajuraho"><br />
India-5679 - Flickr - archer10 (Dennis).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]]<br />
File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638423582).jpg|[[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha Temple]]<br />
Vishwanath N-MP-23.jpg | [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]]<br />
A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg | [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
=== Decline ===<br />
[[File:Mahadeva Temple, Khajuraho.jpg|thumb|[[Surasundari]] and [[vyala]], [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
[[File:Le Temple Kandariya Mahadeva (Khajurâho) (8503001895).jpg|thumb|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple|Kandariya Mahadeva temple]] carvings.]]<br />
By the end of Vidyadhara's reign, the [[Ghaznavid]] invasions had weakened the Chandela kingdom. Taking advantage of this, the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]] conquered eastern parts of the kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=89–90}} Chandela inscriptions suggest that Vidyadhara's successor [[Vijayapala]] (r. c. 1035–1050 CE) defeated Gangeya in a battle.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=88}} However, the Chandela power started declining during the Vijayapala's reign.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=101}} The [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghatas]] of [[Gwalior]] probably gave up their allegiance to the Chandelas during this period.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=90}}<br />
<br />
Vijayapala's elder son [[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavavarman]] was subjugated by Gangeya's son [[Lakshmikarna|Lakshmi-Karna]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=91}} His younger brother [[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]] resurrected the Chandela power by defeating Lakshmi-Karna.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=94}} Kirtivarman's son [[Sallakshanavarman]] achieved military successes against the Paramaras and the Kalachuris, possibly by raiding their territories. A [[Mau, Uttar Pradesh|Mau]] inscription suggests that he also conducted successful campaigns in the Antarvedi region (the Ganga-Yamuna [[doab]]).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=120-121}} His son [[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]] was of religious temperament and abdicated the throne after being tired of governance.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=126}}<br />
<br />
Jayavarman appears to have died heirless, as he was succeeded by his uncle [[Prithvivarman]], the younger son of Kirttivarman.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=110–111}} The Chandela inscriptions do not ascribe any military achievements to him; it appears that he was focused on maintaining the existing Chandela territories without adopting an aggressive expansionist policy.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=111}}<br />
<br />
=== Revival ===<br />
<br />
By the time Prithvivarman's son [[Madanavarman]] (r. c. 1128–1165 CE) ascended the throne, the neighbouring [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] and [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] kingdoms had been weakened by enemy invasions. Taking advantage of this situation, Madanavarman defeated the Kalachuri king [[Gayakarna|Gaya-Karna]], and possibly annexed the northern part of the [[Baghelkhand]] region.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132}} However, the Chandelas lost this territory to Gaya-Karna's successor [[Narasimha (Kalachuri dynasty)|Narasimha]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}} Madanavarman also captured the territory on the western periphery of the Paramara kingdom, around [[Bhilsa]] (Vidisha). This probably happened during the reign of the Paramara king [[Yashovarman (Paramara dynasty)|Yashovarman]] or his son [[Jayavarman I (Paramara dynasty)|Jayavarman]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=130–132}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=112-113}} Once again, the Chandelas could not retain the newly annexed territory for long, and the region was recaptured by Yashovarman's son Lakshmivarman.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}}<br />
<br />
[[Jayasimha Siddharaja]], the [[Chaulukya]] king of Gujarat, also invaded the Paramara territory, which was located between the Chandela and the Chaulukya kingdoms. This brought him in conflict with Madanavarman. The result of this conflict appears to have been inconclusive, as records of both the kingdoms claim victory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=133}} A [[Kalanjara]] inscription suggests that Madanavarman defeated Jayasimha. On the other hand, the various chronicles of Gujarat claim that Jayasimha either defeated Madanavarman or extracted a tribute from him.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=133–134}} Madanavarman maintained friendly relations with his northern neighbours, the [[Gahadavala]]s.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132-133}}<br />
<br />
Madanavarman's son [[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]] either did not rule, or ruled for a very short time. Madanavarman's grandson [[Paramardi|Paramardi-deva]] was the last powerful Chandela king.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=130}}<br />
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=== Final decline ===<br />
{{South Asia in 1175||Location of the Chandelas and neighbouring South Asian polities in 1175, on the eve of the [[Ghurid Empire]] invasion of the subcontinent.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=University of Chicago Press |location=Chicago |pages=37, 147|isbn=0226742210 |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/schwartzberg/pager.html?object=074}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Eaton |first1=Richard M. |title=India in the Persianate Age: 1000-1765 |date=25 July 2019 |publisher=Penguin UK |isbn=978-0-14-196655-7 |page=38 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aIF6DwAAQBAJ&pg=PP31 |language=en}}</ref>|{{Annotation|152|90|[[File:Orange dot (semi-transparent).png|35px]]}}}}<br />
[[Paramardi]] (reigned c. 1165-1203 CE) ascended the Chandela throne at a young age. While the early years of his reign were peaceful, around 1182–1183 CE, the [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari|Chahamana]] ruler [[Prithviraj Chauhan]] invaded the Chandela kingdom. According to the medieval legendary ballads, Prithviraj's army lost its way after a surprise attack by ([[Ghurid]]) [[Turkic peoples|Turkic]] forces, and unknowingly camped at the Chandela capital [[Mahoba]]. This led to a brief conflict between the Chandelas and the Chauhans, before Prithviraj left for Delhi. Sometime later, Prithviraj invaded the Chandela kingdom and sacked Mahoba. Paramardi cowardly took shelter in the [[Kalanjara]] fort. The Chandela force, led by [[Alha]], Udal [[banaphar]], rajputs, of Mahoba|Udal]] and other generals, was defeated in this battle. Nowadays [[ahir]], caste claims alha udal but according to historians and alha khand and mahoba khand they belongs to [[banaphar]], clan of [[rajput]], caste and their mother was of [[ahir]], which is why they are called of mixed origin.According to the various ballads, Paramardi either committed suicide out of shame or retired to [[Gaya, India|Gaya]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=120–123}}<br />
<br />
Prithviraj Chauhan's raid of Mahoba is corroborated by his [[Madanpur, Lalitpur, India|Madanpur]] stone inscriptions. However, there are several instances of historical inaccuracies in the bardic legends. For example, it is known that Paramardi did not retire or die immediately after the Chauhan victory. He restored the Chandela power, and ruled as a sovereign until around 1202–1203 CE, when [[Qutb al-Din Aibak]], the [[Ghurid Empire]] governor of [[Delhi]], invaded the Chandela kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=123–126}} According to ''Taj-ul-Maasir'', a chronicle of the [[Delhi Sultanate]], Paramardi surrendered to the Delhi forces. He promised to pay tribute to the Sultan, but died before he could keep this promise. His [[dewan]] offered some resistance to the invading forces, but was ultimately subdued. The 16th century historian [[Firishta]] states that Paramardi was assassinated by his own minister, who disagreed with the king's decision to surrender to the Delhi forces.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela power did not fully recover from their defeat against the Delhi forces. Paramardi was succeeded by [[Trailokyavarman]], [[Viravarman]] and [[Bhojavarman]]. The next ruler [[Hammiravarman]] (r. c. 1288–1311 CE) did not use the imperial title [[Maharajadhiraja]], which indicates that the Chandela king had a lower status by his time. The Chandela power continued to decline because of the rising Muslim influence, as well as the rise of other local dynasties, such as the [[Bundela]]s, the Baghelas and the [[Khangar (community)|Khangars]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=179}}<br />
<br />
Hammiravarman was succeeded by Viravarman II, whose titles do not indicate a high political status.{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}{{sfn|Om Prakash Misra|2003|p=11}} [[Chandelas of Kalanjara (minor Chandela branch)|One minor branch of the family continued ruling Kalanjara]]: its ruler was killed by [[Sher Shah Suri]]'s army in 1545 CE. Another minor branch ruled at [[Mahoba]]: [[Rani Durgavati|Durgavati]], one of its princesses married into the [[Garha Kingdom|Gond]] royal family of [[Mandla]]. Some other ruling families also claimed Chandela descent (see [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]]).{{sfn|Romila Thapar|2013|p=572}}<br />
<br />
== Art and architecture ==<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture. They commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at various places. The most famous example of their cultural achievements are the Hindu and Jain temples at [[Khajuraho]]. Three other important Chandela strongholds were Jayapura-Durga (modern [[Ajaigarh]]), Kalanjara (modern [[Kalinjar]]) and Mahotsava-Nagara (modern [[Mahoba]]).{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela architecture"><br />
Khajuraho Dulhadeo 2010.jpg | Dulhadeo temple, Khajuraho<br />
0B Ajaigarh 4 sides temple.jpg | Ajaigarh temple<br />
Yajna mandap in kulpahar.jpg | A [[yajna]] [[mandapa]] at [[Kulpahar]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
Other smaller Chandela sites include Chandpur, [[Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh|Deogarh]], Dudahi, [[Kakadeo]], Madanpur and [[Aharji Jain Teerth|Aharji]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<ref>{{cite book |last1=Titze |first1=Kurt |last2=Bruhn|first2=Klaus |title=Jainism: A Pictorial Guide to the Religion of Non-Violence |url={{Google books|loQkEIf8z5wC|page=123|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=[[Motilal Banarsidass]] |edition=2 |year=1998 |isbn=978-81-208-1534-6 | page=128 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Reddy |first=P. Chenny | author-link=P. Chenna Reddy |title=Kalyana Mitra: A treasure house of history, culture and archaeological studies | volume=5 |url={{Google books|prCqEAAAQBAJ|page=197|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=Blue Rose Publishers |year=2023 |isbn=978-93-5741-111-0 | page=197 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela sculptures"><br />
Brahma and his consort.jpg | Brahma and his consort, Khajuraho<br />
Ajaygarh Alians ship.jpg | Stone carving, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Neel Swarshwati.jpg | Jain [[tirthankara]]s and [[Sarasvati]], Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh seven heavens of Jain.jpg | Jain heavens, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Shramanas Egyptian style rock cut.jpg | Jain [[shramana]]s, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh treasure sign.jpg | Cattle with treasure sign, Ajaigarh<br />
35. Khajuraho Visvanath apsara.jpg | [[Surasundari]] [[Apsara]], Khajuraho<br />
Khajuraho 126.jpg | Dancing Ganesha, Khajuraho<br />
<br />
Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638393390).jpg | [[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha temple]] carvings<br />
Le Temple de Lakshmana (Khajurâho) (8498182643).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana temple]] carvings<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== List of rulers ==<br />
<!--<br />
Location to be determined:<br />
* Darbat, near Mahoba. H. V. Trivedi: "The exact location of the village is not recorded and I have no means to ascertain the same." Probably one of these: "Darhat Maaf" or "Dariba".<br />
--><br />
<mapframe text="Chandela territory, as indicated by the [[find spot]]s of inscriptions issued during the Chandela reign{{sfn|Harihar Vitthal Trivedi|1991|pp=335-552}}" width="300" height="300" zoom="5" longitude="80.5" latitude="25.5"><br />
{<br />
"type": "FeatureCollection",<br />
"features": [<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Ahar, Tikamgarh" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.98821, 24.73148] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Ajaygarh (Ajaygadh)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [80.26977, 24.88974] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Augasi" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [80.73114, 25.67960] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Bamni (Bamhni)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.74840, 23.86925] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Bateshwar (Baṭēśvara)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.54203, 26.93506] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Charkhārī" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.75010, 25.40188] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Deogarh (Dēogaḍh)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.23765, 24.52637] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Dhurehati (Dhurēti)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [81.36057, 24.47131] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Dobh (Ḍubkuṇḍ)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [77.04493, 25.73075] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Dudhai (Dudāhī)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.38907, 24.42695] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Gadha, Chhatarpur (Garrā)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.38879, 24.75469] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Gwalior" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.18283, 26.21829] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Ichhawar, Banda district (Ichchhāvar)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [80.49383, 25.87669] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "star", "title": "Kalinjar (Kālañjar)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [80.33032, 25.48933] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "star", "title": "Khajuraho" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.91985, 24.83185] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "star", "title": "Mahoba" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.87242, 25.29210] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Mau, Jhansi district" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.11251, 25.25011] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Nanora", "description": "Also known as Nanaora or Nanyaurā" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.69932, 25.19433] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Narwar" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [77.91103, 25.64879] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Pachar (Pachhār)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.75612, 25.58556] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Sagar – Laxmipura" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.73203, 23.83160] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Semra Sanodha" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.99104, 24.31841] }<br />
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]<br />
}<br />
</mapframe><br />
<br />
Based on epigraphic records, the historians have come up with the following list of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti ([[IAST]] names in brackets):{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=25}}{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=25}}{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+List of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti<br />
! S.N.<br />
! Ruler's regional name ([[IAST]] name in bracket)<br />
! Reign (CE)<br />
|-<br />
|1<br />
|[[Nannuka]]<br />
|831–845<br />
|-<br />
|2<br />
|[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] (Vākpati)<br />
|845–865<br />
|-<br />
|3<br />
|[[Jayashakti]] (Jayaśakti) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vijayaśakti)<br />
|865–885<br />
|-<br />
|4<br />
|[[Rahila]] (Rāhila)<br />
|885–905<br />
|-<br />
|5<br />
|[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Shri Harsha]] (Śri Harśa)<br />
|905–925<br />
|-<br />
|6<br />
|[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman]] (Yaśovarman)<br />
|925–950<br />
|-<br />
|7<br />
|[[Dhangavarman]] <br />
|950–999<br />
|-<br />
|8<br />
|[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda-Deva]] (Gaṇḍadeva)<br />
|999–1002<br />
|-<br />
|9<br />
|[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] (Vidyādhara)<br />
|1003–1035<br />
|-<br />
|10<br />
|[[Vijayapala|Vijaya-Pala]] (Vijayapāla)<br />
|1035–1050<br />
|-<br />
|11<br />
|[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Deva-Varman]]<br />
|1050–1060<br />
|-<br />
|12<br />
|[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirtti-Varman]] (Kīrtivarman)<br />
|1060–1100<br />
|-<br />
|13<br />
|[[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (Sallakṣaṇavarman)<br />
|1100–1110<br />
|-<br />
|14<br />
|[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jaya-Varman]]<br />
|1110–1120<br />
|-<br />
|15<br />
|[[Prithvivarman|Prithvi-Varman]] (Pṛthvīvarman)<br />
|1120–1128<br />
|-<br />
|16<br />
|[[Madanavarman|Madana-Varman]]<br />
|1128–1164<br />
|-<br />
|17<br />
|[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman II]]<br />
|1164–1165<br />
|-<br />
|18<br />
|[[Paramardideva|Paramardi-Deva]]<br />
|1165–1203<br />
|-<br />
|19<br />
|[[Trailokyavarman|Trailokya-Varman]]<br />
|1203–1245<br />
|-<br />
|20<br />
|[[Viravarman|Vira-Varman]] (Vīravarman)<br />
|1245–1285<br />
|-<br />
|21<br />
|[[Bhojavarman|Bhoja-Varman]]<br />
|1285–1288<br />
|-<br />
|22<br />
|[[Hammiravarman|Hammira-Varman]] (Hammīravarman)<br />
|1288–1311<br />
|-<br />
|23<br />
|Vira-Varman II<br />
|1311–1315<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Family tree ==<br />
<br />
{{Chart top|width=100%|collapsed=yes|Chandela dynasty}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart/start|align=center|style=font-size:90%}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Nannuka]]'''<br><sup>(1)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 831-845</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]]'''<br><sup>(2)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 845-865</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(3)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Vijayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(4)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Rahila]]'''<br><sup>(5)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 885-905</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]]'''<br><sup>(6)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 905-925</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman I]]'''<br><sup>(7)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 925-950</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Dhanga]]deva'''<br><sup>(8)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 950-999</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandadeva]]'''<br><sup>(9)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 999-1002</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]]'''<br><sup>(10)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1003-1035</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vijayapala]]'''<br><sup>(11)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1035-1050</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavarman]]'''<br><sup>(12)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1050-1060</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]]'''<br><sup>(13)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1060-1100</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Sallakshanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(14)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1100-1110</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Prithvivarman]]'''<br><sup>(16)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1120-1128</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]]'''<br><sup>(15)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1110-1120</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Madanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(17)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1128-1165</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]]'''<br><sup>(18)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Paramardi]]'''<br><sup>(19)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165-1203</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Viravarman]]'''<br><sup>(21)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1245-1285</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03=Child of<br>Yashovarman}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Trailokyavarman]]'''<br><sup>(20)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1203–1245</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Hammiravarman]]'''<br><sup>(23)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1288-1311</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03='''[[Bhojavarman]]'''<br><sup>(22)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1285-1288</small>|boxstyle_A03=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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== See also ==<br />
* [[History of Madhya Pradesh]]<br />
* [[Chandel (Rajput clan)]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kalanjara]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kumaun]]<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Harihar Vitthal Trivedi |title=Inscriptions of the Paramāras (Part 2) |series=Corpus Inscriptionum Indicarum Volume VII: Inscriptions of the Paramāras, Chandēllas, Kachchapaghātas, and two minor dynasties |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8B4LAQAAMAAJ |year=1991 |publisher=[[Archaeological Survey of India]] }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Om Prakash Misra |title=Archaeological Excavations in Central India: Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=o0ISjDDWJwQC&pg=PA11 |year=2003 |publisher=Mittal Publications |isbn=978-81-7099-874-7 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Peter Jackson |author-link=Peter Jackson (historian) |title=The Delhi Sultanate: A Political and Military History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=lt2tqOpVRKgC&pg=PA199 |year=2003 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-0-521-54329-3 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=R. K. Dikshit |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130 |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Romila Thapar |author-link=Romila Thapar |title=The Past Before Us |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aei9AAAAQBAJ&pg=PA571 |year=2013 |publisher=Harvard University Press |isbn=978-0-674-72651-2 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sisirkumar Mitra |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA113 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sushil Kumar Sullerey |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{refend}}<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
* {{commons category-inline|Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti| ]]<br />
[[Category:Medieval Indian dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Hindu dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Bundelkhand]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:9th-century establishments in India]]<br />
[[Category:14th-century disestablishments in India]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chandel_Empire&diff=562005Chandel Empire2026-09-13T10:42:33Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Late medieval Hindu dynasty of India (800-16th c.)}}<br />
{{pp-extended|small=yes}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=March 2013}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2022}}<br />
{{Infobox country<br />
|conventional_long_name = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
|common_name = Chandela<br />
|era = [[Medieval India]]<br />
|government_type = Monarchy<br />
|year_start = {{Circa|early 9th c.}}<br />
|year_end = 16th c.<br />
|p1 = Kalachuris of Tripuri<br />
| s1 = Mamluk dynasty (Delhi)<br />
| s2 = Mughal Empire <br />
|image_map = Map of the Candellas.png<br />
|image_map_caption = Territory of the Chandelas during the reign of [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] circa 1025 CE.<ref name="JS">{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical Atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=Oxford University Press, Digital South Asia Library|author-link=Joseph E. Schwartzberg |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/cgi-bin/reference/schwartzberg/query.py?display_type=image_display&object=183#gsc.tab=0|page=146, Map "j"}}</ref><br />
|map_width = 300px<br />
|capital = {{ubl|[[Khajuraho]]|[[Kalanjara]]|[[Mahoba]]}}<br />
|common_languages = [[Sanskrit]]<br />
|religion = {{ubl|[[Hinduism]]|[[Jainism]]}}<br />
|today = [[India]]<br />
| image_coat = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti. Sallakshana Varman. Circa 1120-1135 CE.jpg<br />
| coa_size = 280px<br />
| symbol_type = Coinage of [[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (1120–1135 CE), Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
}}<br />
<br />
The '''Chandel Empire''' ([[Nagari]]: चन्देल साम्राज्य, [[IAST]]: Çandela empire) was an [[Indian]] empire during the [[medieval India|medieval period]] of the Indian subcontinent which existed from the 9th century to the 16th century CE. At its peak, the dynasty ruled over an empire that spanned much of the northern Indian subcontinent, with its country called [[Jejakabhukti (Chandela country)|Jejakabhukti]]. The ruling dynasty of the empire was founded by the Chandela ruler [[Nannuka|Nannuka Varman]], who established [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]] in the early 9th century. They belonged to the [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]] clan of the [[Rajput|Rajputs]].<ref>*{{Cite book |author=Upinder Singh|author-link=Upinder Singh|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7DRuAAAAMAAJ |title=The Discovery of Ancient India: Early Archaeologists and the Beginnings of Archaeology |date=2004 |publisher=Permanent Black |isbn=978-81-7824-088-6|page=73|quote=Discussion of the histories of various Rajput clans, such as the Chauhans, Kachhvahas, Chandelas, Pratiharas and Tomaras on the basis of a wide range of sources-literary, epigraphic, numismatic, bardic accounts and local traditions|language=en}}<br />
*{{Cite book|last1=Kulke|first1=Hermann|author-link1=Hermann Kulke|last2=Rothermund|first2=Dietmar |author-link2=Dietmar Rothermund|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TPVq3ykHyH4C|title=A History of India|date=2004|publisher=Psychology Press|isbn=978-0-415-32919-4|language=en|page=117|quote="When Gurjara Pratiharas power declined after the sacking of Kannauj by the Rashtrakutas in the early tenth century many Rajput princes declared their independence and founded their own kingdoms, some of which grew to importance in the subsequent two centuries. The better known among those dynasties were the Chaulukyas or Solankis of Gujarat and Kathiawar, the Chahamanas (i.e. Chauhans) of eastern Rajasthan (Ajmer and Jodhpur) and the Tomaras who had founded Delhi (Dhillika) in 736 but had been displaced by the Chauhans in the twelfth century. Rajput descent was also claimed by the Chandelas of Khujuraho and the Kalachuris of Tripuri"}}<br />
*{{Cite book |author=Romila Thapar|author-link=Romila Thapar|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=i6cwDwAAQBAJ |title=Early India: From the Origins to AD 1300 |date=2004|publisher=University of California Press |isbn=978-0-520-24225-8 |page=420|quote=Other claiming to be Rajputs and descended from the solar and lunar lines, established themselves as local kings in various parts of western and central India. Among them were the Chandellas, prominent in the tenth century in Bundelkhand with their centre at Khajuraho and their territory known as Jejakabhukti|language=en}}<br />
*{{harvnb|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=8}}: "The Candellas are undoubtedly a Rajput clan and the epigraphic evidences does not show that any inferiority was applied to them in the past. It reveals their matrimonial relationship with important Rajput families from the very beginning of their history"</ref><br />
<br />
The Chandelas initially ruled as feudatories of the [[Gurjara-Pratihara]]s of [[Kanyakubja]] (Kannauj). The 10th century Chandela ruler Harshavarman became the indipendent chandela king, he defeated Rashtrakuta Empire, recrowned pratihara ruler mahipala, while his son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] defeated Pratihara empire. y the time of his successor [[Dhangavarman (Chandel emperor)|Dhanga]], the Chandelas had become a sovereign power. Their power rose and declined as they fought battles with the neighbouring dynasties, especially the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]]s of [[Malwa]] and the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]. From the 11th century onwards, they faced raids by the northern Muslim dynasties, including the [[Ghaznavid]]s and the [[Ghurid]]s. The Chandela power effectively ended around the beginning of the 13th century, following selhiiSultanate ons.<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture, most notably for the temples at their original capital [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]]. They also commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at other places, including their strongholds of [[Ajaigarh]], [[Kalinjar]] and their later capital [[Mahoba]].<br />
<br />
== Origin ==<br />
The origin of the Chandelas is obscured by mythical legends. The epigraphic records of the dynasty, as well as contemporary texts such as ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' and ''Prabodha-chandrodaya'', suggest that the Chandelas belonged to the legendary [[Lunar dynasty]] (''Chandravansha'').{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} A 954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription states that the dynasty's first king [[Nannuka]] was a descendant of sage Chandratreya, who was a son of [[Atri]]. A 1002 CE Khajuraho inscription gives a slightly different account, in which Chandratreya is mentioned as a son of Indu (the Moon) and a grandson of Atri.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} The 1195 CE Baghari inscription and the 1260 CE Ajaygadh inscription contain similar accounts.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=5}} The ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' also names [[Atri]] among the ancestors of the Chandelas. Another Khajuraho inscription describes the Chandela king [[Dhanga]] as a member of the [[Vrishni]] clan of the [[Yadavas]] (who also claimed to be part of the Lunar dynasty).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}}<br />
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[[File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638391942).jpg |thumb|left|upright|Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
The ''Mahoba-Khanda'' legend of the dynasty's origin goes like this: Hemaraja, a priest of the [[Gahadavala|Gaharwar]] king of [[Varanasi|Benares]], had a beautiful daughter named Hemavati. Once, while Hemavati was bathing in a pond, the moon god [[Chandra]] saw her and made love to her. Hemavati was worried about the dishonour of being an unwed mother, but Chandra assured her that their son would become a great king. This child was the dynasty's progenitor Chandravarma. Chandra presented him with a [[philosopher's stone]] and taught him politics.<ref name="Asopa1976">{{cite book |author=Jai Narayan Asopa |title=Origin of the Rajputs |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=I_KznQEACAAJ |year=1976 |publisher=Bharatiya Publishing House |page=208}}</ref>{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} The dynasty's own records do not mention Hemavati, Hemaraja or Indrajit. Such legends appear to be later bardic inventions. In general, the ''Mahoba-Khanda'' is a historically unreliable text.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} ''Prithviraj Raso'' is also considered an historically unreliable text.<ref>{{cite book | editor=K Ayyappap Panikkar | title=Medieval Indian literature: an anthology (Volume 1) | author = Vijayendra Snatak | chapter = Medieval Hindi Literature | chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KYLpvaKJIMEC&pg=PA142 |year=1997 | publisher=Sahitya Akademi | isbn=978-81-260-0365-5 | page=142}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Serving empire, serving nation: James Tod and the Rajputs of Rajasthan |first=Jason |last=Freitag |publisher=BRILL |year=2009 |isbn=978-90-04-17594-5 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ib93BhAu43gC |pages=3–5}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=R. V. Somani |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NcIBAAAAMAAJ |title=History of Mewar, from Earliest Times to 1751 A.D. |publisher=Mateshwari |year=1976 |oclc=2929852 |page= 30}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[File:Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh.jpg|thumb|Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh. [[Metropolitan Museum of Art]].]]<br />
British indologist [[Vincent Arthur Smith|V. A. Smith]] theorized that the Chandelas were of either [[Bhar]] or [[Gondi people|Gond]] origin. Some other scholars including [[R. C. Majumdar]] also supported this theory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=6}} The Chandelas worshipped Maniya, a tribal goddess, whose temples are located at Mahoba and Maniyagadh.<ref name="Ali_2008">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iXVNBAAAQBAJ&pg=PA44 |title=World Heritage Monuments and Related Edifices in India |volume=1 |author=Ali Javid and Tabassum Javeed |publisher=Algora |year=2008 |isbn=9780875864822 |page=44 }}</ref> Besides, they have been associated with places that are also associated with Bhars and Gonds. Also, [[Rani Durgavati]], whose family claimed Chandela descent married a Gond chief of [[Mandla|Garha-Mandla]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Historian R. K. Dikshit does not find these arguments convincing: he argues that Maniya was not a tribal deity.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}} Also, the dynasty's association with Gond territory is not necessarily indicative of a common descent: the dynasty's progenitor may have been posted as a governor in these territories.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Finally, Durgavati's marriage to a Gond chief can be dismissed as a one-off case.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}}<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
<br />
=== Early rulers ===<br />
<br />
The Chandelas were originally vassals of the [[Gurjara-Pratiharas]].<ref>Radhey Shyam Chaurasia, History of Ancient India: Earliest Times to 1000 A. D.</ref> [[Nannuka]] (r. {{Circa|831}}–845 CE), the founder of the dynasty, was the ruler of a small kingdom centered around [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]].<ref>{{cite book |author=Sailendra Sen |title=A Textbook of Medieval Indian History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UdW6lAEACAAJ |year=2013 |publisher=Primus |isbn=978-93-80607-34-4 |page=22}}</ref><br />
<br />
According to the Chandela inscriptions, Nannuka's successor [[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] defeated several enemies.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=27-28}} Vakpati's sons [[Jayashakti]] (Jeja) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vija) consolidated the Chandela power.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=30}} According to a [[Mahoba]] inscription, the Chandela territory was named "Jejakabhukti" after the Jayashakti.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=28}} Vijayashakti's successor [[Rahila]] is credited with several military victories in eulogistic inscriptions.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=30–31}} Rahila's son [[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]] played an important role in restoring the rule of the Pratihara king [[Mahipala I|Mahipala]], possibly after a [[Rashtrakuta]] invasion or after Mahiapala's conflict with his step-brother [[Bhoja II (Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty)|Bhoja II]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=32–35}}<br />
<br />
=== Rise as a sovereign power ===<br />
[[File:Kirtivarman Chandela visits the temple of Khajurahu.jpg|thumb|A 20th century artist's imagination of Kirtivarman Chandela visiting a [[Khajuraho]] temple]]<br />
Harsha's son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] (r. c. 925–950 CE) continued to acknowledge the Pratihara suzerainty, but became practically independent.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=36–37}} He conquered the important fortress of [[Kalanjara]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}} A 953–954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription credits him with several other military successes, including against [[Gauḍa (region)|Gaudas]] (identified with the [[Pala Empire|Palas]]), the [[Khasas]], the [[Chedi Kingdom|Chedis]] (the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]), the [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosalas]] (possibly the [[Somavaṃśī dynasty|Somavamshis]]), the [[Mithila (ancient)|Mithila]] (possibly a small tributary ruler), [[Malwa|Malavas]] (identified with the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramaras]]), the [[Kuru Kingdom|Kurus]], the [[Kasmira Kingdom|Kashmiris]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=42-51}} These claims appear to be exaggerated, as similar claims of extensive conquests in northern India are also found in the records of the other contemporary kings such as the Kalachuri king Yuva-Raja and the Rashtrakuta king [[Krishna III]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=42}} Yashovarman's reign marked the beginning of the famous Chandela-era art and architecture. He commissioned the [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}}<br />
<br />
Unlike the earlier Chandela inscriptions, the records of Yashovarman's successor [[Dhanga]] (r. c. 950–999 CE) do not mention any Pratihara overlord. This indicates that Dhanga formally established the Chandela sovereignty.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=57}} A Khajuraho inscription claims that the rulers of [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosala]], Kratha (part of [[Vidarbha]] region), [[Kuntala country|Kuntala]], and [[Sinhala Kingdom|Simhala]] listened humbly to the commands of Dhanga's officers. It also claims that the wives of the kings of [[Andhra Kingdom|Andhra]], [[Anga]], [[Kanchi Kingdom|Kanchi]] and [[Rarh region|Raḍha]] resided in his prisons as a result of his success in wars. These appear to be eulogistic exaggerations by a court poet, but suggest that Dhanga did undertake extensive military campaigns.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=56}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=61–65}} Like his predecessor, Dhanga also commissioned a magnificent temple at Khajuraho, which is identified as the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=69}}<br />
<br />
Dhanga's successor [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda]] appears to have retained the territory he inherited.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72}} His son [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] killed theking of [[Kannauj]] (possibly Rajyapala) for fleeing his capital instead of fighting the [[Ghaznavid]] invader [[Mahmud of Ghazni]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72–73}}{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=72}} Mahmud later invaded Vidyadhara's kingdom; according to the Muslim invaders, this conflict ended with Vidyadhara paying tribute to Mahmud.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=81–82}} Vidyadhara is noted for having commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=26}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela art and architecture reached its zenith during this period. The [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] (c. 930–950 CE), the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]] (c. 999–1002 CE) and the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] (c. 1030 CE) were constructed during the reigns of Yashovarman, Dhanga and Vidyadhara respectively. These [[Nagara architecture|Nagara-style]] temples are representative of the most fully developed style at Khajuraho.<ref name="James_1994">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LwcBVvdqyBkC&pg=PA234 |title=The Art and Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent |author=James C. Harle |publisher=Yale University Press |year=1994 |page=234 |isbn=0300062176 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Nagara-style temples of Khajuraho"><br />
India-5679 - Flickr - archer10 (Dennis).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]]<br />
File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638423582).jpg|[[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha Temple]]<br />
Vishwanath N-MP-23.jpg | [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]]<br />
A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg | [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
=== Decline ===<br />
[[File:Mahadeva Temple, Khajuraho.jpg|thumb|[[Surasundari]] and [[vyala]], [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
[[File:Le Temple Kandariya Mahadeva (Khajurâho) (8503001895).jpg|thumb|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple|Kandariya Mahadeva temple]] carvings.]]<br />
By the end of Vidyadhara's reign, the [[Ghaznavid]] invasions had weakened the Chandela kingdom. Taking advantage of this, the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]] conquered eastern parts of the kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=89–90}} Chandela inscriptions suggest that Vidyadhara's successor [[Vijayapala]] (r. c. 1035–1050 CE) defeated Gangeya in a battle.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=88}} However, the Chandela power started declining during the Vijayapala's reign.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=101}} The [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghatas]] of [[Gwalior]] probably gave up their allegiance to the Chandelas during this period.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=90}}<br />
<br />
Vijayapala's elder son [[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavavarman]] was subjugated by Gangeya's son [[Lakshmikarna|Lakshmi-Karna]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=91}} His younger brother [[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]] resurrected the Chandela power by defeating Lakshmi-Karna.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=94}} Kirtivarman's son [[Sallakshanavarman]] achieved military successes against the Paramaras and the Kalachuris, possibly by raiding their territories. A [[Mau, Uttar Pradesh|Mau]] inscription suggests that he also conducted successful campaigns in the Antarvedi region (the Ganga-Yamuna [[doab]]).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=120-121}} His son [[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]] was of religious temperament and abdicated the throne after being tired of governance.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=126}}<br />
<br />
Jayavarman appears to have died heirless, as he was succeeded by his uncle [[Prithvivarman]], the younger son of Kirttivarman.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=110–111}} The Chandela inscriptions do not ascribe any military achievements to him; it appears that he was focused on maintaining the existing Chandela territories without adopting an aggressive expansionist policy.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=111}}<br />
<br />
=== Revival ===<br />
<br />
By the time Prithvivarman's son [[Madanavarman]] (r. c. 1128–1165 CE) ascended the throne, the neighbouring [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] and [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] kingdoms had been weakened by enemy invasions. Taking advantage of this situation, Madanavarman defeated the Kalachuri king [[Gayakarna|Gaya-Karna]], and possibly annexed the northern part of the [[Baghelkhand]] region.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132}} However, the Chandelas lost this territory to Gaya-Karna's successor [[Narasimha (Kalachuri dynasty)|Narasimha]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}} Madanavarman also captured the territory on the western periphery of the Paramara kingdom, around [[Bhilsa]] (Vidisha). This probably happened during the reign of the Paramara king [[Yashovarman (Paramara dynasty)|Yashovarman]] or his son [[Jayavarman I (Paramara dynasty)|Jayavarman]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=130–132}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=112-113}} Once again, the Chandelas could not retain the newly annexed territory for long, and the region was recaptured by Yashovarman's son Lakshmivarman.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}}<br />
<br />
[[Jayasimha Siddharaja]], the [[Chaulukya]] king of Gujarat, also invaded the Paramara territory, which was located between the Chandela and the Chaulukya kingdoms. This brought him in conflict with Madanavarman. The result of this conflict appears to have been inconclusive, as records of both the kingdoms claim victory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=133}} A [[Kalanjara]] inscription suggests that Madanavarman defeated Jayasimha. On the other hand, the various chronicles of Gujarat claim that Jayasimha either defeated Madanavarman or extracted a tribute from him.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=133–134}} Madanavarman maintained friendly relations with his northern neighbours, the [[Gahadavala]]s.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132-133}}<br />
<br />
Madanavarman's son [[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]] either did not rule, or ruled for a very short time. Madanavarman's grandson [[Paramardi|Paramardi-deva]] was the last powerful Chandela king.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=130}}<br />
<br />
=== Final decline ===<br />
{{South Asia in 1175||Location of the Chandelas and neighbouring South Asian polities in 1175, on the eve of the [[Ghurid Empire]] invasion of the subcontinent.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=University of Chicago Press |location=Chicago |pages=37, 147|isbn=0226742210 |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/schwartzberg/pager.html?object=074}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Eaton |first1=Richard M. |title=India in the Persianate Age: 1000-1765 |date=25 July 2019 |publisher=Penguin UK |isbn=978-0-14-196655-7 |page=38 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aIF6DwAAQBAJ&pg=PP31 |language=en}}</ref>|{{Annotation|152|90|[[File:Orange dot (semi-transparent).png|35px]]}}}}<br />
[[Paramardi]] (reigned c. 1165-1203 CE) ascended the Chandela throne at a young age. While the early years of his reign were peaceful, around 1182–1183 CE, the [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari|Chahamana]] ruler [[Prithviraj Chauhan]] invaded the Chandela kingdom. According to the medieval legendary ballads, Prithviraj's army lost its way after a surprise attack by ([[Ghurid]]) [[Turkic peoples|Turkic]] forces, and unknowingly camped at the Chandela capital [[Mahoba]]. This led to a brief conflict between the Chandelas and the Chauhans, before Prithviraj left for Delhi. Sometime later, Prithviraj invaded the Chandela kingdom and sacked Mahoba. Paramardi cowardly took shelter in the [[Kalanjara]] fort. The Chandela force, led by [[Alha]], Udal [[banaphar]], rajputs, of Mahoba|Udal]] and other generals, was defeated in this battle. Nowadays [[ahir]], caste claims alha udal but according to historians and alha khand and mahoba khand they belongs to [[banaphar]], clan of [[rajput]], caste and their mother was of [[ahir]], which is why they are called of mixed origin.According to the various ballads, Paramardi either committed suicide out of shame or retired to [[Gaya, India|Gaya]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=120–123}}<br />
<br />
Prithviraj Chauhan's raid of Mahoba is corroborated by his [[Madanpur, Lalitpur, India|Madanpur]] stone inscriptions. However, there are several instances of historical inaccuracies in the bardic legends. For example, it is known that Paramardi did not retire or die immediately after the Chauhan victory. He restored the Chandela power, and ruled as a sovereign until around 1202–1203 CE, when [[Qutb al-Din Aibak]], the [[Ghurid Empire]] governor of [[Delhi]], invaded the Chandela kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=123–126}} According to ''Taj-ul-Maasir'', a chronicle of the [[Delhi Sultanate]], Paramardi surrendered to the Delhi forces. He promised to pay tribute to the Sultan, but died before he could keep this promise. His [[dewan]] offered some resistance to the invading forces, but was ultimately subdued. The 16th century historian [[Firishta]] states that Paramardi was assassinated by his own minister, who disagreed with the king's decision to surrender to the Delhi forces.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela power did not fully recover from their defeat against the Delhi forces. Paramardi was succeeded by [[Trailokyavarman]], [[Viravarman]] and [[Bhojavarman]]. The next ruler [[Hammiravarman]] (r. c. 1288–1311 CE) did not use the imperial title [[Maharajadhiraja]], which indicates that the Chandela king had a lower status by his time. The Chandela power continued to decline because of the rising Muslim influence, as well as the rise of other local dynasties, such as the [[Bundela]]s, the Baghelas and the [[Khangar (community)|Khangars]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=179}}<br />
<br />
Hammiravarman was succeeded by Viravarman II, whose titles do not indicate a high political status.{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}{{sfn|Om Prakash Misra|2003|p=11}} [[Chandelas of Kalanjara (minor Chandela branch)|One minor branch of the family continued ruling Kalanjara]]: its ruler was killed by [[Sher Shah Suri]]'s army in 1545 CE. Another minor branch ruled at [[Mahoba]]: [[Rani Durgavati|Durgavati]], one of its princesses married into the [[Garha Kingdom|Gond]] royal family of [[Mandla]]. Some other ruling families also claimed Chandela descent (see [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]]).{{sfn|Romila Thapar|2013|p=572}}<br />
<br />
== Art and architecture ==<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture. They commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at various places. The most famous example of their cultural achievements are the Hindu and Jain temples at [[Khajuraho]]. Three other important Chandela strongholds were Jayapura-Durga (modern [[Ajaigarh]]), Kalanjara (modern [[Kalinjar]]) and Mahotsava-Nagara (modern [[Mahoba]]).{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela architecture"><br />
Khajuraho Dulhadeo 2010.jpg | Dulhadeo temple, Khajuraho<br />
0B Ajaigarh 4 sides temple.jpg | Ajaigarh temple<br />
Yajna mandap in kulpahar.jpg | A [[yajna]] [[mandapa]] at [[Kulpahar]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
Other smaller Chandela sites include Chandpur, [[Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh|Deogarh]], Dudahi, [[Kakadeo]], Madanpur and [[Aharji Jain Teerth|Aharji]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<ref>{{cite book |last1=Titze |first1=Kurt |last2=Bruhn|first2=Klaus |title=Jainism: A Pictorial Guide to the Religion of Non-Violence |url={{Google books|loQkEIf8z5wC|page=123|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=[[Motilal Banarsidass]] |edition=2 |year=1998 |isbn=978-81-208-1534-6 | page=128 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Reddy |first=P. Chenny | author-link=P. Chenna Reddy |title=Kalyana Mitra: A treasure house of history, culture and archaeological studies | volume=5 |url={{Google books|prCqEAAAQBAJ|page=197|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=Blue Rose Publishers |year=2023 |isbn=978-93-5741-111-0 | page=197 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela sculptures"><br />
Brahma and his consort.jpg | Brahma and his consort, Khajuraho<br />
Ajaygarh Alians ship.jpg | Stone carving, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Neel Swarshwati.jpg | Jain [[tirthankara]]s and [[Sarasvati]], Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh seven heavens of Jain.jpg | Jain heavens, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Shramanas Egyptian style rock cut.jpg | Jain [[shramana]]s, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh treasure sign.jpg | Cattle with treasure sign, Ajaigarh<br />
35. Khajuraho Visvanath apsara.jpg | [[Surasundari]] [[Apsara]], Khajuraho<br />
Khajuraho 126.jpg | Dancing Ganesha, Khajuraho<br />
<br />
Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638393390).jpg | [[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha temple]] carvings<br />
Le Temple de Lakshmana (Khajurâho) (8498182643).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana temple]] carvings<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== List of rulers ==<br />
<!--<br />
Location to be determined:<br />
* Darbat, near Mahoba. H. V. Trivedi: "The exact location of the village is not recorded and I have no means to ascertain the same." Probably one of these: "Darhat Maaf" or "Dariba".<br />
--><br />
<mapframe text="Chandela territory, as indicated by the [[find spot]]s of inscriptions issued during the Chandela reign{{sfn|Harihar Vitthal Trivedi|1991|pp=335-552}}" width="300" height="300" zoom="5" longitude="80.5" latitude="25.5"><br />
{<br />
"type": "FeatureCollection",<br />
"features": [<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Ahar, Tikamgarh" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.98821, 24.73148] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Ajaygarh (Ajaygadh)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [80.26977, 24.88974] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Augasi" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [80.73114, 25.67960] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Bamni (Bamhni)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.74840, 23.86925] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Bateshwar (Baṭēśvara)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.54203, 26.93506] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Charkhārī" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.75010, 25.40188] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Deogarh (Dēogaḍh)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.23765, 24.52637] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Dhurehati (Dhurēti)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [81.36057, 24.47131] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Dobh (Ḍubkuṇḍ)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [77.04493, 25.73075] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Dudhai (Dudāhī)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.38907, 24.42695] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Gadha, Chhatarpur (Garrā)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.38879, 24.75469] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Gwalior" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.18283, 26.21829] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Ichhawar, Banda district (Ichchhāvar)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [80.49383, 25.87669] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "star", "title": "Kalinjar (Kālañjar)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [80.33032, 25.48933] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "star", "title": "Khajuraho" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.91985, 24.83185] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "star", "title": "Mahoba" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.87242, 25.29210] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Mau, Jhansi district" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.11251, 25.25011] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Nanora", "description": "Also known as Nanaora or Nanyaurā" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.69932, 25.19433] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Narwar" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [77.91103, 25.64879] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Pachar (Pachhār)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.75612, 25.58556] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Sagar – Laxmipura" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.73203, 23.83160] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Semra Sanodha" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.99104, 24.31841] }<br />
}<br />
]<br />
}<br />
</mapframe><br />
<br />
Based on epigraphic records, the historians have come up with the following list of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti ([[IAST]] names in brackets):{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=25}}{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=25}}{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+List of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti<br />
! S.N.<br />
! Ruler's regional name ([[IAST]] name in bracket)<br />
! Reign (CE)<br />
|-<br />
|1<br />
|[[Nannuka]]<br />
|831–845<br />
|-<br />
|2<br />
|[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] (Vākpati)<br />
|845–865<br />
|-<br />
|3<br />
|[[Jayashakti]] (Jayaśakti) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vijayaśakti)<br />
|865–885<br />
|-<br />
|4<br />
|[[Rahila]] (Rāhila)<br />
|885–905<br />
|-<br />
|5<br />
|[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Shri Harsha]] (Śri Harśa)<br />
|905–925<br />
|-<br />
|6<br />
|[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman]] (Yaśovarman)<br />
|925–950<br />
|-<br />
|7<br />
|[[Dhangavarman]] <br />
|950–999<br />
|-<br />
|8<br />
|[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda-Deva]] (Gaṇḍadeva)<br />
|999–1002<br />
|-<br />
|9<br />
|[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] (Vidyādhara)<br />
|1003–1035<br />
|-<br />
|10<br />
|[[Vijayapala|Vijaya-Pala]] (Vijayapāla)<br />
|1035–1050<br />
|-<br />
|11<br />
|[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Deva-Varman]]<br />
|1050–1060<br />
|-<br />
|12<br />
|[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirtti-Varman]] (Kīrtivarman)<br />
|1060–1100<br />
|-<br />
|13<br />
|[[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (Sallakṣaṇavarman)<br />
|1100–1110<br />
|-<br />
|14<br />
|[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jaya-Varman]]<br />
|1110–1120<br />
|-<br />
|15<br />
|[[Prithvivarman|Prithvi-Varman]] (Pṛthvīvarman)<br />
|1120–1128<br />
|-<br />
|16<br />
|[[Madanavarman|Madana-Varman]]<br />
|1128–1164<br />
|-<br />
|17<br />
|[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman II]]<br />
|1164–1165<br />
|-<br />
|18<br />
|[[Paramardideva|Paramardi-Deva]]<br />
|1165–1203<br />
|-<br />
|19<br />
|[[Trailokyavarman|Trailokya-Varman]]<br />
|1203–1245<br />
|-<br />
|20<br />
|[[Viravarman|Vira-Varman]] (Vīravarman)<br />
|1245–1285<br />
|-<br />
|21<br />
|[[Bhojavarman|Bhoja-Varman]]<br />
|1285–1288<br />
|-<br />
|22<br />
|[[Hammiravarman|Hammira-Varman]] (Hammīravarman)<br />
|1288–1311<br />
|-<br />
|23<br />
|Vira-Varman II<br />
|1311–1315<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Family tree ==<br />
<br />
{{Chart top|width=100%|collapsed=yes|Chandela dynasty}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart/start|align=center|style=font-size:90%}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Nannuka]]'''<br><sup>(1)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 831-845</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]]'''<br><sup>(2)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 845-865</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(3)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Vijayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(4)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Rahila]]'''<br><sup>(5)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 885-905</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]]'''<br><sup>(6)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 905-925</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman I]]'''<br><sup>(7)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 925-950</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Dhanga]]deva'''<br><sup>(8)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 950-999</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandadeva]]'''<br><sup>(9)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 999-1002</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]]'''<br><sup>(10)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1003-1035</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vijayapala]]'''<br><sup>(11)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1035-1050</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavarman]]'''<br><sup>(12)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1050-1060</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]]'''<br><sup>(13)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1060-1100</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Sallakshanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(14)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1100-1110</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Prithvivarman]]'''<br><sup>(16)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1120-1128</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]]'''<br><sup>(15)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1110-1120</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Madanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(17)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1128-1165</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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A01='''[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]]'''<br><sup>(18)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Paramardi]]'''<br><sup>(19)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165-1203</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Viravarman]]'''<br><sup>(21)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1245-1285</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03=Child of<br>Yashovarman}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Trailokyavarman]]'''<br><sup>(20)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1203–1245</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Hammiravarman]]'''<br><sup>(23)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1288-1311</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03='''[[Bhojavarman]]'''<br><sup>(22)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1285-1288</small>|boxstyle_A03=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Chart bottom}}<br />
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== See also ==<br />
* [[History of Madhya Pradesh]]<br />
* [[Chandel (Rajput clan)]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kalanjara]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kumaun]]<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Harihar Vitthal Trivedi |title=Inscriptions of the Paramāras (Part 2) |series=Corpus Inscriptionum Indicarum Volume VII: Inscriptions of the Paramāras, Chandēllas, Kachchapaghātas, and two minor dynasties |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8B4LAQAAMAAJ |year=1991 |publisher=[[Archaeological Survey of India]] }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Om Prakash Misra |title=Archaeological Excavations in Central India: Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=o0ISjDDWJwQC&pg=PA11 |year=2003 |publisher=Mittal Publications |isbn=978-81-7099-874-7 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Peter Jackson |author-link=Peter Jackson (historian) |title=The Delhi Sultanate: A Political and Military History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=lt2tqOpVRKgC&pg=PA199 |year=2003 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-0-521-54329-3 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=R. K. Dikshit |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130 |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Romila Thapar |author-link=Romila Thapar |title=The Past Before Us |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aei9AAAAQBAJ&pg=PA571 |year=2013 |publisher=Harvard University Press |isbn=978-0-674-72651-2 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sisirkumar Mitra |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA113 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sushil Kumar Sullerey |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{refend}}<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
* {{commons category-inline|Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti| ]]<br />
[[Category:Medieval Indian dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Hindu dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Bundelkhand]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:9th-century establishments in India]]<br />
[[Category:14th-century disestablishments in India]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chandel_Empire&diff=562004Chandel Empire2026-09-13T10:41:25Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Late medieval Hindu dynasty of India (800-16th c.)}}<br />
{{pp-extended|small=yes}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=March 2013}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2022}}<br />
{{Infobox country<br />
|conventional_long_name = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
|common_name = Chandela<br />
|era = [[Medieval India]]<br />
|government_type = Monarchy<br />
|year_start = {{Circa|early 9th c.}}<br />
|year_end = 16th c.<br />
|p1 = Kalachuris of Tripuri<br />
| s1 = Ghurid dynasty<br />
| s2 = Mamluk dynasty (Delhi)<br />
|image_map = Map of the Candellas.png<br />
|image_map_caption = Territory of the Chandelas during the reign of [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] circa 1025 CE.<ref name="JS">{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical Atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=Oxford University Press, Digital South Asia Library|author-link=Joseph E. Schwartzberg |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/cgi-bin/reference/schwartzberg/query.py?display_type=image_display&object=183#gsc.tab=0|page=146, Map "j"}}</ref><br />
|map_width = 300px<br />
|capital = {{ubl|[[Khajuraho]]|[[Kalanjara]]|[[Mahoba]]}}<br />
|common_languages = [[Sanskrit]]<br />
|religion = {{ubl|[[Hinduism]]|[[Jainism]]}}<br />
|today = [[India]]<br />
| image_coat = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti. Sallakshana Varman. Circa 1120-1135 CE.jpg<br />
| coa_size = 280px<br />
| symbol_type = Coinage of [[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (1120–1135 CE), Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
}}<br />
<br />
The '''Chandel Empire''' ([[Nagari]]: चन्देल साम्राज्य, [[IAST]]: Çandela empire) was an [[Indian]] empire during the [[medieval India|medieval period]] of the Indian subcontinent which existed from the 9th century to the 16th century CE. At its peak, the dynasty ruled over an empire that spanned much of the northern Indian subcontinent, with its country called [[Jejakabhukti (Chandela country)|Jejakabhukti]]. The ruling dynasty of the empire was founded by the Chandela ruler [[Nannuka|Nannuka Varman]], who established [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]] in the early 9th century. They belonged to the [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]] clan of the [[Rajput|Rajputs]].<ref>*{{Cite book |author=Upinder Singh|author-link=Upinder Singh|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7DRuAAAAMAAJ |title=The Discovery of Ancient India: Early Archaeologists and the Beginnings of Archaeology |date=2004 |publisher=Permanent Black |isbn=978-81-7824-088-6|page=73|quote=Discussion of the histories of various Rajput clans, such as the Chauhans, Kachhvahas, Chandelas, Pratiharas and Tomaras on the basis of a wide range of sources-literary, epigraphic, numismatic, bardic accounts and local traditions|language=en}}<br />
*{{Cite book|last1=Kulke|first1=Hermann|author-link1=Hermann Kulke|last2=Rothermund|first2=Dietmar |author-link2=Dietmar Rothermund|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TPVq3ykHyH4C|title=A History of India|date=2004|publisher=Psychology Press|isbn=978-0-415-32919-4|language=en|page=117|quote="When Gurjara Pratiharas power declined after the sacking of Kannauj by the Rashtrakutas in the early tenth century many Rajput princes declared their independence and founded their own kingdoms, some of which grew to importance in the subsequent two centuries. The better known among those dynasties were the Chaulukyas or Solankis of Gujarat and Kathiawar, the Chahamanas (i.e. Chauhans) of eastern Rajasthan (Ajmer and Jodhpur) and the Tomaras who had founded Delhi (Dhillika) in 736 but had been displaced by the Chauhans in the twelfth century. Rajput descent was also claimed by the Chandelas of Khujuraho and the Kalachuris of Tripuri"}}<br />
*{{Cite book |author=Romila Thapar|author-link=Romila Thapar|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=i6cwDwAAQBAJ |title=Early India: From the Origins to AD 1300 |date=2004|publisher=University of California Press |isbn=978-0-520-24225-8 |page=420|quote=Other claiming to be Rajputs and descended from the solar and lunar lines, established themselves as local kings in various parts of western and central India. Among them were the Chandellas, prominent in the tenth century in Bundelkhand with their centre at Khajuraho and their territory known as Jejakabhukti|language=en}}<br />
*{{harvnb|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=8}}: "The Candellas are undoubtedly a Rajput clan and the epigraphic evidences does not show that any inferiority was applied to them in the past. It reveals their matrimonial relationship with important Rajput families from the very beginning of their history"</ref><br />
<br />
The Chandelas initially ruled as feudatories of the [[Gurjara-Pratihara]]s of [[Kanyakubja]] (Kannauj). The 10th century Chandela ruler Harshavarman became the indipendent chandela king, he defeated Rashtrakuta Empire, recrowned pratihara ruler mahipala, while his son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] defeated Pratihara empire. y the time of his successor [[Dhangavarman (Chandel emperor)|Dhanga]], the Chandelas had become a sovereign power. Their power rose and declined as they fought battles with the neighbouring dynasties, especially the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]]s of [[Malwa]] and the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]. From the 11th century onwards, they faced raids by the northern Muslim dynasties, including the [[Ghaznavid]]s and the [[Ghurid]]s. The Chandela power effectively ended around the beginning of the 13th century, following selhiiSultanate ons.<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture, most notably for the temples at their original capital [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]]. They also commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at other places, including their strongholds of [[Ajaigarh]], [[Kalinjar]] and their later capital [[Mahoba]].<br />
<br />
== Origin ==<br />
The origin of the Chandelas is obscured by mythical legends. The epigraphic records of the dynasty, as well as contemporary texts such as ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' and ''Prabodha-chandrodaya'', suggest that the Chandelas belonged to the legendary [[Lunar dynasty]] (''Chandravansha'').{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} A 954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription states that the dynasty's first king [[Nannuka]] was a descendant of sage Chandratreya, who was a son of [[Atri]]. A 1002 CE Khajuraho inscription gives a slightly different account, in which Chandratreya is mentioned as a son of Indu (the Moon) and a grandson of Atri.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} The 1195 CE Baghari inscription and the 1260 CE Ajaygadh inscription contain similar accounts.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=5}} The ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' also names [[Atri]] among the ancestors of the Chandelas. Another Khajuraho inscription describes the Chandela king [[Dhanga]] as a member of the [[Vrishni]] clan of the [[Yadavas]] (who also claimed to be part of the Lunar dynasty).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}}<br />
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[[File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638391942).jpg |thumb|left|upright|Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
The ''Mahoba-Khanda'' legend of the dynasty's origin goes like this: Hemaraja, a priest of the [[Gahadavala|Gaharwar]] king of [[Varanasi|Benares]], had a beautiful daughter named Hemavati. Once, while Hemavati was bathing in a pond, the moon god [[Chandra]] saw her and made love to her. Hemavati was worried about the dishonour of being an unwed mother, but Chandra assured her that their son would become a great king. This child was the dynasty's progenitor Chandravarma. Chandra presented him with a [[philosopher's stone]] and taught him politics.<ref name="Asopa1976">{{cite book |author=Jai Narayan Asopa |title=Origin of the Rajputs |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=I_KznQEACAAJ |year=1976 |publisher=Bharatiya Publishing House |page=208}}</ref>{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} The dynasty's own records do not mention Hemavati, Hemaraja or Indrajit. Such legends appear to be later bardic inventions. In general, the ''Mahoba-Khanda'' is a historically unreliable text.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} ''Prithviraj Raso'' is also considered an historically unreliable text.<ref>{{cite book | editor=K Ayyappap Panikkar | title=Medieval Indian literature: an anthology (Volume 1) | author = Vijayendra Snatak | chapter = Medieval Hindi Literature | chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KYLpvaKJIMEC&pg=PA142 |year=1997 | publisher=Sahitya Akademi | isbn=978-81-260-0365-5 | page=142}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Serving empire, serving nation: James Tod and the Rajputs of Rajasthan |first=Jason |last=Freitag |publisher=BRILL |year=2009 |isbn=978-90-04-17594-5 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ib93BhAu43gC |pages=3–5}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=R. V. Somani |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NcIBAAAAMAAJ |title=History of Mewar, from Earliest Times to 1751 A.D. |publisher=Mateshwari |year=1976 |oclc=2929852 |page= 30}}</ref><br />
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[[File:Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh.jpg|thumb|Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh. [[Metropolitan Museum of Art]].]]<br />
British indologist [[Vincent Arthur Smith|V. A. Smith]] theorized that the Chandelas were of either [[Bhar]] or [[Gondi people|Gond]] origin. Some other scholars including [[R. C. Majumdar]] also supported this theory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=6}} The Chandelas worshipped Maniya, a tribal goddess, whose temples are located at Mahoba and Maniyagadh.<ref name="Ali_2008">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iXVNBAAAQBAJ&pg=PA44 |title=World Heritage Monuments and Related Edifices in India |volume=1 |author=Ali Javid and Tabassum Javeed |publisher=Algora |year=2008 |isbn=9780875864822 |page=44 }}</ref> Besides, they have been associated with places that are also associated with Bhars and Gonds. Also, [[Rani Durgavati]], whose family claimed Chandela descent married a Gond chief of [[Mandla|Garha-Mandla]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Historian R. K. Dikshit does not find these arguments convincing: he argues that Maniya was not a tribal deity.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}} Also, the dynasty's association with Gond territory is not necessarily indicative of a common descent: the dynasty's progenitor may have been posted as a governor in these territories.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Finally, Durgavati's marriage to a Gond chief can be dismissed as a one-off case.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}}<br />
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==History==<br />
<br />
=== Early rulers ===<br />
<br />
The Chandelas were originally vassals of the [[Gurjara-Pratiharas]].<ref>Radhey Shyam Chaurasia, History of Ancient India: Earliest Times to 1000 A. D.</ref> [[Nannuka]] (r. {{Circa|831}}–845 CE), the founder of the dynasty, was the ruler of a small kingdom centered around [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]].<ref>{{cite book |author=Sailendra Sen |title=A Textbook of Medieval Indian History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UdW6lAEACAAJ |year=2013 |publisher=Primus |isbn=978-93-80607-34-4 |page=22}}</ref><br />
<br />
According to the Chandela inscriptions, Nannuka's successor [[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] defeated several enemies.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=27-28}} Vakpati's sons [[Jayashakti]] (Jeja) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vija) consolidated the Chandela power.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=30}} According to a [[Mahoba]] inscription, the Chandela territory was named "Jejakabhukti" after the Jayashakti.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=28}} Vijayashakti's successor [[Rahila]] is credited with several military victories in eulogistic inscriptions.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=30–31}} Rahila's son [[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]] played an important role in restoring the rule of the Pratihara king [[Mahipala I|Mahipala]], possibly after a [[Rashtrakuta]] invasion or after Mahiapala's conflict with his step-brother [[Bhoja II (Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty)|Bhoja II]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=32–35}}<br />
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=== Rise as a sovereign power ===<br />
[[File:Kirtivarman Chandela visits the temple of Khajurahu.jpg|thumb|A 20th century artist's imagination of Kirtivarman Chandela visiting a [[Khajuraho]] temple]]<br />
Harsha's son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] (r. c. 925–950 CE) continued to acknowledge the Pratihara suzerainty, but became practically independent.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=36–37}} He conquered the important fortress of [[Kalanjara]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}} A 953–954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription credits him with several other military successes, including against [[Gauḍa (region)|Gaudas]] (identified with the [[Pala Empire|Palas]]), the [[Khasas]], the [[Chedi Kingdom|Chedis]] (the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]), the [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosalas]] (possibly the [[Somavaṃśī dynasty|Somavamshis]]), the [[Mithila (ancient)|Mithila]] (possibly a small tributary ruler), [[Malwa|Malavas]] (identified with the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramaras]]), the [[Kuru Kingdom|Kurus]], the [[Kasmira Kingdom|Kashmiris]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=42-51}} These claims appear to be exaggerated, as similar claims of extensive conquests in northern India are also found in the records of the other contemporary kings such as the Kalachuri king Yuva-Raja and the Rashtrakuta king [[Krishna III]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=42}} Yashovarman's reign marked the beginning of the famous Chandela-era art and architecture. He commissioned the [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}}<br />
<br />
Unlike the earlier Chandela inscriptions, the records of Yashovarman's successor [[Dhanga]] (r. c. 950–999 CE) do not mention any Pratihara overlord. This indicates that Dhanga formally established the Chandela sovereignty.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=57}} A Khajuraho inscription claims that the rulers of [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosala]], Kratha (part of [[Vidarbha]] region), [[Kuntala country|Kuntala]], and [[Sinhala Kingdom|Simhala]] listened humbly to the commands of Dhanga's officers. It also claims that the wives of the kings of [[Andhra Kingdom|Andhra]], [[Anga]], [[Kanchi Kingdom|Kanchi]] and [[Rarh region|Raḍha]] resided in his prisons as a result of his success in wars. These appear to be eulogistic exaggerations by a court poet, but suggest that Dhanga did undertake extensive military campaigns.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=56}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=61–65}} Like his predecessor, Dhanga also commissioned a magnificent temple at Khajuraho, which is identified as the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=69}}<br />
<br />
Dhanga's successor [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda]] appears to have retained the territory he inherited.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72}} His son [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] killed theking of [[Kannauj]] (possibly Rajyapala) for fleeing his capital instead of fighting the [[Ghaznavid]] invader [[Mahmud of Ghazni]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72–73}}{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=72}} Mahmud later invaded Vidyadhara's kingdom; according to the Muslim invaders, this conflict ended with Vidyadhara paying tribute to Mahmud.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=81–82}} Vidyadhara is noted for having commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=26}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela art and architecture reached its zenith during this period. The [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] (c. 930–950 CE), the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]] (c. 999–1002 CE) and the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] (c. 1030 CE) were constructed during the reigns of Yashovarman, Dhanga and Vidyadhara respectively. These [[Nagara architecture|Nagara-style]] temples are representative of the most fully developed style at Khajuraho.<ref name="James_1994">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LwcBVvdqyBkC&pg=PA234 |title=The Art and Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent |author=James C. Harle |publisher=Yale University Press |year=1994 |page=234 |isbn=0300062176 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Nagara-style temples of Khajuraho"><br />
India-5679 - Flickr - archer10 (Dennis).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]]<br />
File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638423582).jpg|[[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha Temple]]<br />
Vishwanath N-MP-23.jpg | [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]]<br />
A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg | [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
=== Decline ===<br />
[[File:Mahadeva Temple, Khajuraho.jpg|thumb|[[Surasundari]] and [[vyala]], [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
[[File:Le Temple Kandariya Mahadeva (Khajurâho) (8503001895).jpg|thumb|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple|Kandariya Mahadeva temple]] carvings.]]<br />
By the end of Vidyadhara's reign, the [[Ghaznavid]] invasions had weakened the Chandela kingdom. Taking advantage of this, the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]] conquered eastern parts of the kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=89–90}} Chandela inscriptions suggest that Vidyadhara's successor [[Vijayapala]] (r. c. 1035–1050 CE) defeated Gangeya in a battle.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=88}} However, the Chandela power started declining during the Vijayapala's reign.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=101}} The [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghatas]] of [[Gwalior]] probably gave up their allegiance to the Chandelas during this period.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=90}}<br />
<br />
Vijayapala's elder son [[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavavarman]] was subjugated by Gangeya's son [[Lakshmikarna|Lakshmi-Karna]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=91}} His younger brother [[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]] resurrected the Chandela power by defeating Lakshmi-Karna.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=94}} Kirtivarman's son [[Sallakshanavarman]] achieved military successes against the Paramaras and the Kalachuris, possibly by raiding their territories. A [[Mau, Uttar Pradesh|Mau]] inscription suggests that he also conducted successful campaigns in the Antarvedi region (the Ganga-Yamuna [[doab]]).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=120-121}} His son [[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]] was of religious temperament and abdicated the throne after being tired of governance.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=126}}<br />
<br />
Jayavarman appears to have died heirless, as he was succeeded by his uncle [[Prithvivarman]], the younger son of Kirttivarman.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=110–111}} The Chandela inscriptions do not ascribe any military achievements to him; it appears that he was focused on maintaining the existing Chandela territories without adopting an aggressive expansionist policy.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=111}}<br />
<br />
=== Revival ===<br />
<br />
By the time Prithvivarman's son [[Madanavarman]] (r. c. 1128–1165 CE) ascended the throne, the neighbouring [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] and [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] kingdoms had been weakened by enemy invasions. Taking advantage of this situation, Madanavarman defeated the Kalachuri king [[Gayakarna|Gaya-Karna]], and possibly annexed the northern part of the [[Baghelkhand]] region.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132}} However, the Chandelas lost this territory to Gaya-Karna's successor [[Narasimha (Kalachuri dynasty)|Narasimha]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}} Madanavarman also captured the territory on the western periphery of the Paramara kingdom, around [[Bhilsa]] (Vidisha). This probably happened during the reign of the Paramara king [[Yashovarman (Paramara dynasty)|Yashovarman]] or his son [[Jayavarman I (Paramara dynasty)|Jayavarman]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=130–132}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=112-113}} Once again, the Chandelas could not retain the newly annexed territory for long, and the region was recaptured by Yashovarman's son Lakshmivarman.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}}<br />
<br />
[[Jayasimha Siddharaja]], the [[Chaulukya]] king of Gujarat, also invaded the Paramara territory, which was located between the Chandela and the Chaulukya kingdoms. This brought him in conflict with Madanavarman. The result of this conflict appears to have been inconclusive, as records of both the kingdoms claim victory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=133}} A [[Kalanjara]] inscription suggests that Madanavarman defeated Jayasimha. On the other hand, the various chronicles of Gujarat claim that Jayasimha either defeated Madanavarman or extracted a tribute from him.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=133–134}} Madanavarman maintained friendly relations with his northern neighbours, the [[Gahadavala]]s.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132-133}}<br />
<br />
Madanavarman's son [[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]] either did not rule, or ruled for a very short time. Madanavarman's grandson [[Paramardi|Paramardi-deva]] was the last powerful Chandela king.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=130}}<br />
<br />
=== Final decline ===<br />
{{South Asia in 1175||Location of the Chandelas and neighbouring South Asian polities in 1175, on the eve of the [[Ghurid Empire]] invasion of the subcontinent.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=University of Chicago Press |location=Chicago |pages=37, 147|isbn=0226742210 |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/schwartzberg/pager.html?object=074}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Eaton |first1=Richard M. |title=India in the Persianate Age: 1000-1765 |date=25 July 2019 |publisher=Penguin UK |isbn=978-0-14-196655-7 |page=38 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aIF6DwAAQBAJ&pg=PP31 |language=en}}</ref>|{{Annotation|152|90|[[File:Orange dot (semi-transparent).png|35px]]}}}}<br />
[[Paramardi]] (reigned c. 1165-1203 CE) ascended the Chandela throne at a young age. While the early years of his reign were peaceful, around 1182–1183 CE, the [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari|Chahamana]] ruler [[Prithviraj Chauhan]] invaded the Chandela kingdom. According to the medieval legendary ballads, Prithviraj's army lost its way after a surprise attack by ([[Ghurid]]) [[Turkic peoples|Turkic]] forces, and unknowingly camped at the Chandela capital [[Mahoba]]. This led to a brief conflict between the Chandelas and the Chauhans, before Prithviraj left for Delhi. Sometime later, Prithviraj invaded the Chandela kingdom and sacked Mahoba. Paramardi cowardly took shelter in the [[Kalanjara]] fort. The Chandela force, led by [[Alha]], Udal [[banaphar]], rajputs, of Mahoba|Udal]] and other generals, was defeated in this battle. Nowadays [[ahir]], caste claims alha udal but according to historians and alha khand and mahoba khand they belongs to [[banaphar]], clan of [[rajput]], caste and their mother was of [[ahir]], which is why they are called of mixed origin.According to the various ballads, Paramardi either committed suicide out of shame or retired to [[Gaya, India|Gaya]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=120–123}}<br />
<br />
Prithviraj Chauhan's raid of Mahoba is corroborated by his [[Madanpur, Lalitpur, India|Madanpur]] stone inscriptions. However, there are several instances of historical inaccuracies in the bardic legends. For example, it is known that Paramardi did not retire or die immediately after the Chauhan victory. He restored the Chandela power, and ruled as a sovereign until around 1202–1203 CE, when [[Qutb al-Din Aibak]], the [[Ghurid Empire]] governor of [[Delhi]], invaded the Chandela kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=123–126}} According to ''Taj-ul-Maasir'', a chronicle of the [[Delhi Sultanate]], Paramardi surrendered to the Delhi forces. He promised to pay tribute to the Sultan, but died before he could keep this promise. His [[dewan]] offered some resistance to the invading forces, but was ultimately subdued. The 16th century historian [[Firishta]] states that Paramardi was assassinated by his own minister, who disagreed with the king's decision to surrender to the Delhi forces.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela power did not fully recover from their defeat against the Delhi forces. Paramardi was succeeded by [[Trailokyavarman]], [[Viravarman]] and [[Bhojavarman]]. The next ruler [[Hammiravarman]] (r. c. 1288–1311 CE) did not use the imperial title [[Maharajadhiraja]], which indicates that the Chandela king had a lower status by his time. The Chandela power continued to decline because of the rising Muslim influence, as well as the rise of other local dynasties, such as the [[Bundela]]s, the Baghelas and the [[Khangar (community)|Khangars]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=179}}<br />
<br />
Hammiravarman was succeeded by Viravarman II, whose titles do not indicate a high political status.{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}{{sfn|Om Prakash Misra|2003|p=11}} [[Chandelas of Kalanjara (minor Chandela branch)|One minor branch of the family continued ruling Kalanjara]]: its ruler was killed by [[Sher Shah Suri]]'s army in 1545 CE. Another minor branch ruled at [[Mahoba]]: [[Rani Durgavati|Durgavati]], one of its princesses married into the [[Garha Kingdom|Gond]] royal family of [[Mandla]]. Some other ruling families also claimed Chandela descent (see [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]]).{{sfn|Romila Thapar|2013|p=572}}<br />
<br />
== Art and architecture ==<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture. They commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at various places. The most famous example of their cultural achievements are the Hindu and Jain temples at [[Khajuraho]]. Three other important Chandela strongholds were Jayapura-Durga (modern [[Ajaigarh]]), Kalanjara (modern [[Kalinjar]]) and Mahotsava-Nagara (modern [[Mahoba]]).{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela architecture"><br />
Khajuraho Dulhadeo 2010.jpg | Dulhadeo temple, Khajuraho<br />
0B Ajaigarh 4 sides temple.jpg | Ajaigarh temple<br />
Yajna mandap in kulpahar.jpg | A [[yajna]] [[mandapa]] at [[Kulpahar]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
Other smaller Chandela sites include Chandpur, [[Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh|Deogarh]], Dudahi, [[Kakadeo]], Madanpur and [[Aharji Jain Teerth|Aharji]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<ref>{{cite book |last1=Titze |first1=Kurt |last2=Bruhn|first2=Klaus |title=Jainism: A Pictorial Guide to the Religion of Non-Violence |url={{Google books|loQkEIf8z5wC|page=123|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=[[Motilal Banarsidass]] |edition=2 |year=1998 |isbn=978-81-208-1534-6 | page=128 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Reddy |first=P. Chenny | author-link=P. Chenna Reddy |title=Kalyana Mitra: A treasure house of history, culture and archaeological studies | volume=5 |url={{Google books|prCqEAAAQBAJ|page=197|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=Blue Rose Publishers |year=2023 |isbn=978-93-5741-111-0 | page=197 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela sculptures"><br />
Brahma and his consort.jpg | Brahma and his consort, Khajuraho<br />
Ajaygarh Alians ship.jpg | Stone carving, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Neel Swarshwati.jpg | Jain [[tirthankara]]s and [[Sarasvati]], Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh seven heavens of Jain.jpg | Jain heavens, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Shramanas Egyptian style rock cut.jpg | Jain [[shramana]]s, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh treasure sign.jpg | Cattle with treasure sign, Ajaigarh<br />
35. Khajuraho Visvanath apsara.jpg | [[Surasundari]] [[Apsara]], Khajuraho<br />
Khajuraho 126.jpg | Dancing Ganesha, Khajuraho<br />
<br />
Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638393390).jpg | [[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha temple]] carvings<br />
Le Temple de Lakshmana (Khajurâho) (8498182643).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana temple]] carvings<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== List of rulers ==<br />
<!--<br />
Location to be determined:<br />
* Darbat, near Mahoba. H. V. Trivedi: "The exact location of the village is not recorded and I have no means to ascertain the same." Probably one of these: "Darhat Maaf" or "Dariba".<br />
--><br />
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{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Ahar, Tikamgarh" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.98821, 24.73148] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Ajaygarh (Ajaygadh)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [80.26977, 24.88974] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Augasi" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [80.73114, 25.67960] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Bamni (Bamhni)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.74840, 23.86925] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Bateshwar (Baṭēśvara)" },<br />
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{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Charkhārī" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.75010, 25.40188] }<br />
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{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Deogarh (Dēogaḍh)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.23765, 24.52637] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Dhurehati (Dhurēti)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [81.36057, 24.47131] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Dobh (Ḍubkuṇḍ)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [77.04493, 25.73075] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Dudhai (Dudāhī)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.38907, 24.42695] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Gadha, Chhatarpur (Garrā)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.38879, 24.75469] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Gwalior" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.18283, 26.21829] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Ichhawar, Banda district (Ichchhāvar)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [80.49383, 25.87669] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "star", "title": "Kalinjar (Kālañjar)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [80.33032, 25.48933] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "star", "title": "Khajuraho" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.91985, 24.83185] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "star", "title": "Mahoba" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.87242, 25.29210] }<br />
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{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Mau, Jhansi district" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.11251, 25.25011] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Nanora", "description": "Also known as Nanaora or Nanyaurā" },<br />
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{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Narwar" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [77.91103, 25.64879] }<br />
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{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Pachar (Pachhār)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.75612, 25.58556] }<br />
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"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Sagar – Laxmipura" },<br />
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"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Semra Sanodha" },<br />
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</mapframe><br />
<br />
Based on epigraphic records, the historians have come up with the following list of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti ([[IAST]] names in brackets):{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=25}}{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=25}}{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+List of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti<br />
! S.N.<br />
! Ruler's regional name ([[IAST]] name in bracket)<br />
! Reign (CE)<br />
|-<br />
|1<br />
|[[Nannuka]]<br />
|831–845<br />
|-<br />
|2<br />
|[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] (Vākpati)<br />
|845–865<br />
|-<br />
|3<br />
|[[Jayashakti]] (Jayaśakti) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vijayaśakti)<br />
|865–885<br />
|-<br />
|4<br />
|[[Rahila]] (Rāhila)<br />
|885–905<br />
|-<br />
|5<br />
|[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Shri Harsha]] (Śri Harśa)<br />
|905–925<br />
|-<br />
|6<br />
|[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman]] (Yaśovarman)<br />
|925–950<br />
|-<br />
|7<br />
|[[Dhangavarman]] <br />
|950–999<br />
|-<br />
|8<br />
|[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda-Deva]] (Gaṇḍadeva)<br />
|999–1002<br />
|-<br />
|9<br />
|[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] (Vidyādhara)<br />
|1003–1035<br />
|-<br />
|10<br />
|[[Vijayapala|Vijaya-Pala]] (Vijayapāla)<br />
|1035–1050<br />
|-<br />
|11<br />
|[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Deva-Varman]]<br />
|1050–1060<br />
|-<br />
|12<br />
|[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirtti-Varman]] (Kīrtivarman)<br />
|1060–1100<br />
|-<br />
|13<br />
|[[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (Sallakṣaṇavarman)<br />
|1100–1110<br />
|-<br />
|14<br />
|[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jaya-Varman]]<br />
|1110–1120<br />
|-<br />
|15<br />
|[[Prithvivarman|Prithvi-Varman]] (Pṛthvīvarman)<br />
|1120–1128<br />
|-<br />
|16<br />
|[[Madanavarman|Madana-Varman]]<br />
|1128–1164<br />
|-<br />
|17<br />
|[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman II]]<br />
|1164–1165<br />
|-<br />
|18<br />
|[[Paramardideva|Paramardi-Deva]]<br />
|1165–1203<br />
|-<br />
|19<br />
|[[Trailokyavarman|Trailokya-Varman]]<br />
|1203–1245<br />
|-<br />
|20<br />
|[[Viravarman|Vira-Varman]] (Vīravarman)<br />
|1245–1285<br />
|-<br />
|21<br />
|[[Bhojavarman|Bhoja-Varman]]<br />
|1285–1288<br />
|-<br />
|22<br />
|[[Hammiravarman|Hammira-Varman]] (Hammīravarman)<br />
|1288–1311<br />
|-<br />
|23<br />
|Vira-Varman II<br />
|1311–1315<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Family tree ==<br />
<br />
{{Chart top|width=100%|collapsed=yes|Chandela dynasty}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart/start|align=center|style=font-size:90%}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Nannuka]]'''<br><sup>(1)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 831-845</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]]'''<br><sup>(2)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 845-865</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
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A01='''[[Jayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(3)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Vijayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(4)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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A01='''[[Rahila]]'''<br><sup>(5)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 885-905</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]]'''<br><sup>(6)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 905-925</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman I]]'''<br><sup>(7)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 925-950</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Dhanga]]deva'''<br><sup>(8)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 950-999</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandadeva]]'''<br><sup>(9)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 999-1002</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]]'''<br><sup>(10)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1003-1035</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vijayapala]]'''<br><sup>(11)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1035-1050</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavarman]]'''<br><sup>(12)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1050-1060</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]]'''<br><sup>(13)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1060-1100</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Sallakshanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(14)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1100-1110</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Prithvivarman]]'''<br><sup>(16)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1120-1128</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]]'''<br><sup>(15)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1110-1120</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Madanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(17)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1128-1165</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]]'''<br><sup>(18)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Paramardi]]'''<br><sup>(19)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165-1203</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Viravarman]]'''<br><sup>(21)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1245-1285</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03=Child of<br>Yashovarman}}<br />
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{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Trailokyavarman]]'''<br><sup>(20)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1203–1245</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Hammiravarman]]'''<br><sup>(23)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1288-1311</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03='''[[Bhojavarman]]'''<br><sup>(22)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1285-1288</small>|boxstyle_A03=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
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{{Chart bottom}}<br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[History of Madhya Pradesh]]<br />
* [[Chandel (Rajput clan)]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kalanjara]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kumaun]]<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Harihar Vitthal Trivedi |title=Inscriptions of the Paramāras (Part 2) |series=Corpus Inscriptionum Indicarum Volume VII: Inscriptions of the Paramāras, Chandēllas, Kachchapaghātas, and two minor dynasties |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8B4LAQAAMAAJ |year=1991 |publisher=[[Archaeological Survey of India]] }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Om Prakash Misra |title=Archaeological Excavations in Central India: Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=o0ISjDDWJwQC&pg=PA11 |year=2003 |publisher=Mittal Publications |isbn=978-81-7099-874-7 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Peter Jackson |author-link=Peter Jackson (historian) |title=The Delhi Sultanate: A Political and Military History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=lt2tqOpVRKgC&pg=PA199 |year=2003 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-0-521-54329-3 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=R. K. Dikshit |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130 |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Romila Thapar |author-link=Romila Thapar |title=The Past Before Us |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aei9AAAAQBAJ&pg=PA571 |year=2013 |publisher=Harvard University Press |isbn=978-0-674-72651-2 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sisirkumar Mitra |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA113 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sushil Kumar Sullerey |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{refend}}<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
* {{commons category-inline|Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti| ]]<br />
[[Category:Medieval Indian dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Hindu dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Bundelkhand]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:9th-century establishments in India]]<br />
[[Category:14th-century disestablishments in India]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chandel_Empire&diff=562003Chandel Empire2026-09-13T10:40:42Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Late medieval Hindu dynasty of India (831–1315)}}<br />
{{pp-extended|small=yes}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=March 2013}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2022}}<br />
{{Infobox country<br />
|conventional_long_name = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
|common_name = Chandela<br />
|era = [[Medieval India]]<br />
|government_type = Monarchy<br />
|year_start = {{Circa|831}}<br />
|year_end = 1315<br />
|p1 = Kalachuris of Tripuri<br />
| s1 = Ghurid dynasty<br />
| s2 = Mamluk dynasty (Delhi)<br />
|image_map = Map of the Candellas.png<br />
|image_map_caption = Territory of the Chandelas during the reign of [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] circa 1025 CE.<ref name="JS">{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical Atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=Oxford University Press, Digital South Asia Library|author-link=Joseph E. Schwartzberg |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/cgi-bin/reference/schwartzberg/query.py?display_type=image_display&object=183#gsc.tab=0|page=146, Map "j"}}</ref><br />
|map_width = 300px<br />
|capital = {{ubl|[[Khajuraho]]|[[Kalanjara]]|[[Mahoba]]}}<br />
|common_languages = [[Sanskrit]]<br />
|religion = {{ubl|[[Hinduism]]|[[Jainism]]}}<br />
|today = [[India]]<br />
| image_coat = Chandelas of Jejakabhukti. Sallakshana Varman. Circa 1120-1135 CE.jpg<br />
| coa_size = 280px<br />
| symbol_type = Coinage of [[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (1120–1135 CE), Chandelas of Jejakabhukti<br />
}}<br />
<br />
The '''Chandel Empire''' ([[Nagari]]: चन्देल साम्राज्य, [[IAST]]: Çandela empire) was an [[Indian]] empire during the [[medieval India|medieval period]] of the Indian subcontinent which existed from the 9th century to the 16th century CE. At its peak, the dynasty ruled over an empire that spanned much of the northern Indian subcontinent, with its country called [[Jejakabhukti (Chandela country)|Jejakabhukti]]. The ruling dynasty of the empire was founded by the Chandela ruler [[Nannuka|Nannuka Varman]], who established [[Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti]] in the early 9th century. They belonged to the [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]] clan of the [[Rajput|Rajputs]].<ref>*{{Cite book |author=Upinder Singh|author-link=Upinder Singh|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7DRuAAAAMAAJ |title=The Discovery of Ancient India: Early Archaeologists and the Beginnings of Archaeology |date=2004 |publisher=Permanent Black |isbn=978-81-7824-088-6|page=73|quote=Discussion of the histories of various Rajput clans, such as the Chauhans, Kachhvahas, Chandelas, Pratiharas and Tomaras on the basis of a wide range of sources-literary, epigraphic, numismatic, bardic accounts and local traditions|language=en}}<br />
*{{Cite book|last1=Kulke|first1=Hermann|author-link1=Hermann Kulke|last2=Rothermund|first2=Dietmar |author-link2=Dietmar Rothermund|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TPVq3ykHyH4C|title=A History of India|date=2004|publisher=Psychology Press|isbn=978-0-415-32919-4|language=en|page=117|quote="When Gurjara Pratiharas power declined after the sacking of Kannauj by the Rashtrakutas in the early tenth century many Rajput princes declared their independence and founded their own kingdoms, some of which grew to importance in the subsequent two centuries. The better known among those dynasties were the Chaulukyas or Solankis of Gujarat and Kathiawar, the Chahamanas (i.e. Chauhans) of eastern Rajasthan (Ajmer and Jodhpur) and the Tomaras who had founded Delhi (Dhillika) in 736 but had been displaced by the Chauhans in the twelfth century. Rajput descent was also claimed by the Chandelas of Khujuraho and the Kalachuris of Tripuri"}}<br />
*{{Cite book |author=Romila Thapar|author-link=Romila Thapar|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=i6cwDwAAQBAJ |title=Early India: From the Origins to AD 1300 |date=2004|publisher=University of California Press |isbn=978-0-520-24225-8 |page=420|quote=Other claiming to be Rajputs and descended from the solar and lunar lines, established themselves as local kings in various parts of western and central India. Among them were the Chandellas, prominent in the tenth century in Bundelkhand with their centre at Khajuraho and their territory known as Jejakabhukti|language=en}}<br />
*{{harvnb|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=8}}: "The Candellas are undoubtedly a Rajput clan and the epigraphic evidences does not show that any inferiority was applied to them in the past. It reveals their matrimonial relationship with important Rajput families from the very beginning of their history"</ref><br />
<br />
The Chandelas initially ruled as feudatories of the [[Gurjara-Pratihara]]s of [[Kanyakubja]] (Kannauj). The 10th century Chandela ruler Harshavarman became the indipendent chandela king, he defeated Rashtrakuta Empire, recrowned pratihara ruler mahipala, while his son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] defeated Pratihara empire. y the time of his successor [[Dhangavarman (Chandel emperor)|Dhanga]], the Chandelas had become a sovereign power. Their power rose and declined as they fought battles with the neighbouring dynasties, especially the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]]s of [[Malwa]] and the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]. From the 11th century onwards, they faced raids by the northern Muslim dynasties, including the [[Ghaznavid]]s and the [[Ghurid]]s. The Chandela power effectively ended around the beginning of the 13th century, following selhiiSultanate ons.<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture, most notably for the temples at their original capital [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]]. They also commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at other places, including their strongholds of [[Ajaigarh]], [[Kalinjar]] and their later capital [[Mahoba]].<br />
<br />
== Origin ==<br />
The origin of the Chandelas is obscured by mythical legends. The epigraphic records of the dynasty, as well as contemporary texts such as ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' and ''Prabodha-chandrodaya'', suggest that the Chandelas belonged to the legendary [[Lunar dynasty]] (''Chandravansha'').{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} A 954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription states that the dynasty's first king [[Nannuka]] was a descendant of sage Chandratreya, who was a son of [[Atri]]. A 1002 CE Khajuraho inscription gives a slightly different account, in which Chandratreya is mentioned as a son of Indu (the Moon) and a grandson of Atri.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} The 1195 CE Baghari inscription and the 1260 CE Ajaygadh inscription contain similar accounts.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=5}} The ''Balabhadra-vilasa'' also names [[Atri]] among the ancestors of the Chandelas. Another Khajuraho inscription describes the Chandela king [[Dhanga]] as a member of the [[Vrishni]] clan of the [[Yadavas]] (who also claimed to be part of the Lunar dynasty).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}}<br />
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[[File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638391942).jpg |thumb|left|upright|Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
The ''Mahoba-Khanda'' legend of the dynasty's origin goes like this: Hemaraja, a priest of the [[Gahadavala|Gaharwar]] king of [[Varanasi|Benares]], had a beautiful daughter named Hemavati. Once, while Hemavati was bathing in a pond, the moon god [[Chandra]] saw her and made love to her. Hemavati was worried about the dishonour of being an unwed mother, but Chandra assured her that their son would become a great king. This child was the dynasty's progenitor Chandravarma. Chandra presented him with a [[philosopher's stone]] and taught him politics.<ref name="Asopa1976">{{cite book |author=Jai Narayan Asopa |title=Origin of the Rajputs |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=I_KznQEACAAJ |year=1976 |publisher=Bharatiya Publishing House |page=208}}</ref>{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=3}} The dynasty's own records do not mention Hemavati, Hemaraja or Indrajit. Such legends appear to be later bardic inventions. In general, the ''Mahoba-Khanda'' is a historically unreliable text.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=4}} ''Prithviraj Raso'' is also considered an historically unreliable text.<ref>{{cite book | editor=K Ayyappap Panikkar | title=Medieval Indian literature: an anthology (Volume 1) | author = Vijayendra Snatak | chapter = Medieval Hindi Literature | chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KYLpvaKJIMEC&pg=PA142 |year=1997 | publisher=Sahitya Akademi | isbn=978-81-260-0365-5 | page=142}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Serving empire, serving nation: James Tod and the Rajputs of Rajasthan |first=Jason |last=Freitag |publisher=BRILL |year=2009 |isbn=978-90-04-17594-5 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ib93BhAu43gC |pages=3–5}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=R. V. Somani |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NcIBAAAAMAAJ |title=History of Mewar, from Earliest Times to 1751 A.D. |publisher=Mateshwari |year=1976 |oclc=2929852 |page= 30}}</ref><br />
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[[File:Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh.jpg|thumb|Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh. [[Metropolitan Museum of Art]].]]<br />
British indologist [[Vincent Arthur Smith|V. A. Smith]] theorized that the Chandelas were of either [[Bhar]] or [[Gondi people|Gond]] origin. Some other scholars including [[R. C. Majumdar]] also supported this theory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=6}} The Chandelas worshipped Maniya, a tribal goddess, whose temples are located at Mahoba and Maniyagadh.<ref name="Ali_2008">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iXVNBAAAQBAJ&pg=PA44 |title=World Heritage Monuments and Related Edifices in India |volume=1 |author=Ali Javid and Tabassum Javeed |publisher=Algora |year=2008 |isbn=9780875864822 |page=44 }}</ref> Besides, they have been associated with places that are also associated with Bhars and Gonds. Also, [[Rani Durgavati]], whose family claimed Chandela descent married a Gond chief of [[Mandla|Garha-Mandla]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Historian R. K. Dikshit does not find these arguments convincing: he argues that Maniya was not a tribal deity.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}} Also, the dynasty's association with Gond territory is not necessarily indicative of a common descent: the dynasty's progenitor may have been posted as a governor in these territories.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=7}} Finally, Durgavati's marriage to a Gond chief can be dismissed as a one-off case.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=8}}<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
<br />
=== Early rulers ===<br />
<br />
The Chandelas were originally vassals of the [[Gurjara-Pratiharas]].<ref>Radhey Shyam Chaurasia, History of Ancient India: Earliest Times to 1000 A. D.</ref> [[Nannuka]] (r. {{Circa|831}}–845 CE), the founder of the dynasty, was the ruler of a small kingdom centered around [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]].<ref>{{cite book |author=Sailendra Sen |title=A Textbook of Medieval Indian History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UdW6lAEACAAJ |year=2013 |publisher=Primus |isbn=978-93-80607-34-4 |page=22}}</ref><br />
<br />
According to the Chandela inscriptions, Nannuka's successor [[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] defeated several enemies.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=27-28}} Vakpati's sons [[Jayashakti]] (Jeja) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vija) consolidated the Chandela power.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=30}} According to a [[Mahoba]] inscription, the Chandela territory was named "Jejakabhukti" after the Jayashakti.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=28}} Vijayashakti's successor [[Rahila]] is credited with several military victories in eulogistic inscriptions.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=30–31}} Rahila's son [[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]] played an important role in restoring the rule of the Pratihara king [[Mahipala I|Mahipala]], possibly after a [[Rashtrakuta]] invasion or after Mahiapala's conflict with his step-brother [[Bhoja II (Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty)|Bhoja II]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=32–35}}<br />
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=== Rise as a sovereign power ===<br />
[[File:Kirtivarman Chandela visits the temple of Khajurahu.jpg|thumb|A 20th century artist's imagination of Kirtivarman Chandela visiting a [[Khajuraho]] temple]]<br />
Harsha's son [[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] (r. c. 925–950 CE) continued to acknowledge the Pratihara suzerainty, but became practically independent.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=36–37}} He conquered the important fortress of [[Kalanjara]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}} A 953–954 CE [[Khajuraho]] inscription credits him with several other military successes, including against [[Gauḍa (region)|Gaudas]] (identified with the [[Pala Empire|Palas]]), the [[Khasas]], the [[Chedi Kingdom|Chedis]] (the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri]]), the [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosalas]] (possibly the [[Somavaṃśī dynasty|Somavamshis]]), the [[Mithila (ancient)|Mithila]] (possibly a small tributary ruler), [[Malwa|Malavas]] (identified with the [[Paramara dynasty|Paramaras]]), the [[Kuru Kingdom|Kurus]], the [[Kasmira Kingdom|Kashmiris]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=42-51}} These claims appear to be exaggerated, as similar claims of extensive conquests in northern India are also found in the records of the other contemporary kings such as the Kalachuri king Yuva-Raja and the Rashtrakuta king [[Krishna III]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=42}} Yashovarman's reign marked the beginning of the famous Chandela-era art and architecture. He commissioned the [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] at Khajuraho.{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=24}}<br />
<br />
Unlike the earlier Chandela inscriptions, the records of Yashovarman's successor [[Dhanga]] (r. c. 950–999 CE) do not mention any Pratihara overlord. This indicates that Dhanga formally established the Chandela sovereignty.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=57}} A Khajuraho inscription claims that the rulers of [[Dakshina Kosala|Kosala]], Kratha (part of [[Vidarbha]] region), [[Kuntala country|Kuntala]], and [[Sinhala Kingdom|Simhala]] listened humbly to the commands of Dhanga's officers. It also claims that the wives of the kings of [[Andhra Kingdom|Andhra]], [[Anga]], [[Kanchi Kingdom|Kanchi]] and [[Rarh region|Raḍha]] resided in his prisons as a result of his success in wars. These appear to be eulogistic exaggerations by a court poet, but suggest that Dhanga did undertake extensive military campaigns.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=56}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=61–65}} Like his predecessor, Dhanga also commissioned a magnificent temple at Khajuraho, which is identified as the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=69}}<br />
<br />
Dhanga's successor [[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda]] appears to have retained the territory he inherited.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72}} His son [[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] killed theking of [[Kannauj]] (possibly Rajyapala) for fleeing his capital instead of fighting the [[Ghaznavid]] invader [[Mahmud of Ghazni]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=72–73}}{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=72}} Mahmud later invaded Vidyadhara's kingdom; according to the Muslim invaders, this conflict ended with Vidyadhara paying tribute to Mahmud.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=81–82}} Vidyadhara is noted for having commissioned the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=26}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela art and architecture reached its zenith during this period. The [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]] (c. 930–950 CE), the [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]] (c. 999–1002 CE) and the [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]] (c. 1030 CE) were constructed during the reigns of Yashovarman, Dhanga and Vidyadhara respectively. These [[Nagara architecture|Nagara-style]] temples are representative of the most fully developed style at Khajuraho.<ref name="James_1994">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LwcBVvdqyBkC&pg=PA234 |title=The Art and Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent |author=James C. Harle |publisher=Yale University Press |year=1994 |page=234 |isbn=0300062176 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Nagara-style temples of Khajuraho"><br />
India-5679 - Flickr - archer10 (Dennis).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana Temple]]<br />
File:Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638423582).jpg|[[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha Temple]]<br />
Vishwanath N-MP-23.jpg | [[Vishvanatha Temple, Khajuraho|Vishvanatha Temple]]<br />
A view of Kandariya Mahadev Temple Khajuraho India.jpg | [[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
=== Decline ===<br />
[[File:Mahadeva Temple, Khajuraho.jpg|thumb|[[Surasundari]] and [[vyala]], [[Khajuraho]].]]<br />
[[File:Le Temple Kandariya Mahadeva (Khajurâho) (8503001895).jpg|thumb|[[Kandariya Mahadeva Temple|Kandariya Mahadeva temple]] carvings.]]<br />
By the end of Vidyadhara's reign, the [[Ghaznavid]] invasions had weakened the Chandela kingdom. Taking advantage of this, the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] king [[Gangeyadeva|Gangeya-deva]] conquered eastern parts of the kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=89–90}} Chandela inscriptions suggest that Vidyadhara's successor [[Vijayapala]] (r. c. 1035–1050 CE) defeated Gangeya in a battle.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=88}} However, the Chandela power started declining during the Vijayapala's reign.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=101}} The [[Kachchhapaghata dynasty|Kachchhapaghatas]] of [[Gwalior]] probably gave up their allegiance to the Chandelas during this period.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=90}}<br />
<br />
Vijayapala's elder son [[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavavarman]] was subjugated by Gangeya's son [[Lakshmikarna|Lakshmi-Karna]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=91}} His younger brother [[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]] resurrected the Chandela power by defeating Lakshmi-Karna.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=94}} Kirtivarman's son [[Sallakshanavarman]] achieved military successes against the Paramaras and the Kalachuris, possibly by raiding their territories. A [[Mau, Uttar Pradesh|Mau]] inscription suggests that he also conducted successful campaigns in the Antarvedi region (the Ganga-Yamuna [[doab]]).{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=120-121}} His son [[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]] was of religious temperament and abdicated the throne after being tired of governance.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=126}}<br />
<br />
Jayavarman appears to have died heirless, as he was succeeded by his uncle [[Prithvivarman]], the younger son of Kirttivarman.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=110–111}} The Chandela inscriptions do not ascribe any military achievements to him; it appears that he was focused on maintaining the existing Chandela territories without adopting an aggressive expansionist policy.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=111}}<br />
<br />
=== Revival ===<br />
<br />
By the time Prithvivarman's son [[Madanavarman]] (r. c. 1128–1165 CE) ascended the throne, the neighbouring [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuri]] and [[Paramara dynasty|Paramara]] kingdoms had been weakened by enemy invasions. Taking advantage of this situation, Madanavarman defeated the Kalachuri king [[Gayakarna|Gaya-Karna]], and possibly annexed the northern part of the [[Baghelkhand]] region.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132}} However, the Chandelas lost this territory to Gaya-Karna's successor [[Narasimha (Kalachuri dynasty)|Narasimha]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}} Madanavarman also captured the territory on the western periphery of the Paramara kingdom, around [[Bhilsa]] (Vidisha). This probably happened during the reign of the Paramara king [[Yashovarman (Paramara dynasty)|Yashovarman]] or his son [[Jayavarman I (Paramara dynasty)|Jayavarman]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=130–132}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=112-113}} Once again, the Chandelas could not retain the newly annexed territory for long, and the region was recaptured by Yashovarman's son Lakshmivarman.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=135}}<br />
<br />
[[Jayasimha Siddharaja]], the [[Chaulukya]] king of Gujarat, also invaded the Paramara territory, which was located between the Chandela and the Chaulukya kingdoms. This brought him in conflict with Madanavarman. The result of this conflict appears to have been inconclusive, as records of both the kingdoms claim victory.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=133}} A [[Kalanjara]] inscription suggests that Madanavarman defeated Jayasimha. On the other hand, the various chronicles of Gujarat claim that Jayasimha either defeated Madanavarman or extracted a tribute from him.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=133–134}} Madanavarman maintained friendly relations with his northern neighbours, the [[Gahadavala]]s.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=132-133}}<br />
<br />
Madanavarman's son [[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]] either did not rule, or ruled for a very short time. Madanavarman's grandson [[Paramardi|Paramardi-deva]] was the last powerful Chandela king.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=130}}<br />
<br />
=== Final decline ===<br />
{{South Asia in 1175||Location of the Chandelas and neighbouring South Asian polities in 1175, on the eve of the [[Ghurid Empire]] invasion of the subcontinent.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Schwartzberg |first1=Joseph E. |title=A Historical atlas of South Asia |date=1978 |publisher=University of Chicago Press |location=Chicago |pages=37, 147|isbn=0226742210 |url=https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/schwartzberg/pager.html?object=074}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Eaton |first1=Richard M. |title=India in the Persianate Age: 1000-1765 |date=25 July 2019 |publisher=Penguin UK |isbn=978-0-14-196655-7 |page=38 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aIF6DwAAQBAJ&pg=PP31 |language=en}}</ref>|{{Annotation|152|90|[[File:Orange dot (semi-transparent).png|35px]]}}}}<br />
[[Paramardi]] (reigned c. 1165-1203 CE) ascended the Chandela throne at a young age. While the early years of his reign were peaceful, around 1182–1183 CE, the [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari|Chahamana]] ruler [[Prithviraj Chauhan]] invaded the Chandela kingdom. According to the medieval legendary ballads, Prithviraj's army lost its way after a surprise attack by ([[Ghurid]]) [[Turkic peoples|Turkic]] forces, and unknowingly camped at the Chandela capital [[Mahoba]]. This led to a brief conflict between the Chandelas and the Chauhans, before Prithviraj left for Delhi. Sometime later, Prithviraj invaded the Chandela kingdom and sacked Mahoba. Paramardi cowardly took shelter in the [[Kalanjara]] fort. The Chandela force, led by [[Alha]], Udal [[banaphar]], rajputs, of Mahoba|Udal]] and other generals, was defeated in this battle. Nowadays [[ahir]], caste claims alha udal but according to historians and alha khand and mahoba khand they belongs to [[banaphar]], clan of [[rajput]], caste and their mother was of [[ahir]], which is why they are called of mixed origin.According to the various ballads, Paramardi either committed suicide out of shame or retired to [[Gaya, India|Gaya]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=120–123}}<br />
<br />
Prithviraj Chauhan's raid of Mahoba is corroborated by his [[Madanpur, Lalitpur, India|Madanpur]] stone inscriptions. However, there are several instances of historical inaccuracies in the bardic legends. For example, it is known that Paramardi did not retire or die immediately after the Chauhan victory. He restored the Chandela power, and ruled as a sovereign until around 1202–1203 CE, when [[Qutb al-Din Aibak]], the [[Ghurid Empire]] governor of [[Delhi]], invaded the Chandela kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|pp=123–126}} According to ''Taj-ul-Maasir'', a chronicle of the [[Delhi Sultanate]], Paramardi surrendered to the Delhi forces. He promised to pay tribute to the Sultan, but died before he could keep this promise. His [[dewan]] offered some resistance to the invading forces, but was ultimately subdued. The 16th century historian [[Firishta]] states that Paramardi was assassinated by his own minister, who disagreed with the king's decision to surrender to the Delhi forces.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<br />
<br />
The Chandela power did not fully recover from their defeat against the Delhi forces. Paramardi was succeeded by [[Trailokyavarman]], [[Viravarman]] and [[Bhojavarman]]. The next ruler [[Hammiravarman]] (r. c. 1288–1311 CE) did not use the imperial title [[Maharajadhiraja]], which indicates that the Chandela king had a lower status by his time. The Chandela power continued to decline because of the rising Muslim influence, as well as the rise of other local dynasties, such as the [[Bundela]]s, the Baghelas and the [[Khangar (community)|Khangars]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=179}}<br />
<br />
Hammiravarman was succeeded by Viravarman II, whose titles do not indicate a high political status.{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}{{sfn|Om Prakash Misra|2003|p=11}} [[Chandelas of Kalanjara (minor Chandela branch)|One minor branch of the family continued ruling Kalanjara]]: its ruler was killed by [[Sher Shah Suri]]'s army in 1545 CE. Another minor branch ruled at [[Mahoba]]: [[Rani Durgavati|Durgavati]], one of its princesses married into the [[Garha Kingdom|Gond]] royal family of [[Mandla]]. Some other ruling families also claimed Chandela descent (see [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]]).{{sfn|Romila Thapar|2013|p=572}}<br />
<br />
== Art and architecture ==<br />
<br />
The Chandelas are well known for their art and architecture. They commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts at various places. The most famous example of their cultural achievements are the Hindu and Jain temples at [[Khajuraho]]. Three other important Chandela strongholds were Jayapura-Durga (modern [[Ajaigarh]]), Kalanjara (modern [[Kalinjar]]) and Mahotsava-Nagara (modern [[Mahoba]]).{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela architecture"><br />
Khajuraho Dulhadeo 2010.jpg | Dulhadeo temple, Khajuraho<br />
0B Ajaigarh 4 sides temple.jpg | Ajaigarh temple<br />
Yajna mandap in kulpahar.jpg | A [[yajna]] [[mandapa]] at [[Kulpahar]]<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
Other smaller Chandela sites include Chandpur, [[Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh|Deogarh]], Dudahi, [[Kakadeo]], Madanpur and [[Aharji Jain Teerth|Aharji]].{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=17}}<ref>{{cite book |last1=Titze |first1=Kurt |last2=Bruhn|first2=Klaus |title=Jainism: A Pictorial Guide to the Religion of Non-Violence |url={{Google books|loQkEIf8z5wC|page=123|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=[[Motilal Banarsidass]] |edition=2 |year=1998 |isbn=978-81-208-1534-6 | page=128 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Reddy |first=P. Chenny | author-link=P. Chenna Reddy |title=Kalyana Mitra: A treasure house of history, culture and archaeological studies | volume=5 |url={{Google books|prCqEAAAQBAJ|page=197|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=Blue Rose Publishers |year=2023 |isbn=978-93-5741-111-0 | page=197 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Chandela sculptures"><br />
Brahma and his consort.jpg | Brahma and his consort, Khajuraho<br />
Ajaygarh Alians ship.jpg | Stone carving, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Neel Swarshwati.jpg | Jain [[tirthankara]]s and [[Sarasvati]], Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh seven heavens of Jain.jpg | Jain heavens, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh Shramanas Egyptian style rock cut.jpg | Jain [[shramana]]s, Ajaigarh<br />
Ajaygarh treasure sign.jpg | Cattle with treasure sign, Ajaigarh<br />
35. Khajuraho Visvanath apsara.jpg | [[Surasundari]] [[Apsara]], Khajuraho<br />
Khajuraho 126.jpg | Dancing Ganesha, Khajuraho<br />
<br />
Le temple de Parshvanath (Khajuraho) (8638393390).jpg | [[Parshvanatha temple, Khajuraho|Parshvanatha temple]] carvings<br />
Le Temple de Lakshmana (Khajurâho) (8498182643).jpg | [[Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho|Lakshmana temple]] carvings<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== List of rulers ==<br />
<!--<br />
Location to be determined:<br />
* Darbat, near Mahoba. H. V. Trivedi: "The exact location of the village is not recorded and I have no means to ascertain the same." Probably one of these: "Darhat Maaf" or "Dariba".<br />
--><br />
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"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Ahar, Tikamgarh" },<br />
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{<br />
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"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Dhurehati (Dhurēti)" },<br />
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{<br />
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"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Dobh (Ḍubkuṇḍ)" },<br />
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{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Dudhai (Dudāhī)" },<br />
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"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Ichhawar, Banda district (Ichchhāvar)" },<br />
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<br />
Based on epigraphic records, the historians have come up with the following list of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti ([[IAST]] names in brackets):{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=25}}{{sfn|Sushil Kumar Sullerey|2004|p=25}}{{sfn|Peter Jackson|2003|p=199}}<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+List of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti<br />
! S.N.<br />
! Ruler's regional name ([[IAST]] name in bracket)<br />
! Reign (CE)<br />
|-<br />
|1<br />
|[[Nannuka]]<br />
|831–845<br />
|-<br />
|2<br />
|[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]] (Vākpati)<br />
|845–865<br />
|-<br />
|3<br />
|[[Jayashakti]] (Jayaśakti) and [[Vijayashakti]] (Vijayaśakti)<br />
|865–885<br />
|-<br />
|4<br />
|[[Rahila]] (Rāhila)<br />
|885–905<br />
|-<br />
|5<br />
|[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Shri Harsha]] (Śri Harśa)<br />
|905–925<br />
|-<br />
|6<br />
|[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman]] (Yaśovarman)<br />
|925–950<br />
|-<br />
|7<br />
|[[Dhangavarman]] <br />
|950–999<br />
|-<br />
|8<br />
|[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Ganda-Deva]] (Gaṇḍadeva)<br />
|999–1002<br />
|-<br />
|9<br />
|[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]] (Vidyādhara)<br />
|1003–1035<br />
|-<br />
|10<br />
|[[Vijayapala|Vijaya-Pala]] (Vijayapāla)<br />
|1035–1050<br />
|-<br />
|11<br />
|[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Deva-Varman]]<br />
|1050–1060<br />
|-<br />
|12<br />
|[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirtti-Varman]] (Kīrtivarman)<br />
|1060–1100<br />
|-<br />
|13<br />
|[[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshana-Varman]] (Sallakṣaṇavarman)<br />
|1100–1110<br />
|-<br />
|14<br />
|[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jaya-Varman]]<br />
|1110–1120<br />
|-<br />
|15<br />
|[[Prithvivarman|Prithvi-Varman]] (Pṛthvīvarman)<br />
|1120–1128<br />
|-<br />
|16<br />
|[[Madanavarman|Madana-Varman]]<br />
|1128–1164<br />
|-<br />
|17<br />
|[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yasho-Varman II]]<br />
|1164–1165<br />
|-<br />
|18<br />
|[[Paramardideva|Paramardi-Deva]]<br />
|1165–1203<br />
|-<br />
|19<br />
|[[Trailokyavarman|Trailokya-Varman]]<br />
|1203–1245<br />
|-<br />
|20<br />
|[[Viravarman|Vira-Varman]] (Vīravarman)<br />
|1245–1285<br />
|-<br />
|21<br />
|[[Bhojavarman|Bhoja-Varman]]<br />
|1285–1288<br />
|-<br />
|22<br />
|[[Hammiravarman|Hammira-Varman]] (Hammīravarman)<br />
|1288–1311<br />
|-<br />
|23<br />
|Vira-Varman II<br />
|1311–1315<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Family tree ==<br />
<br />
{{Chart top|width=100%|collapsed=yes|Chandela dynasty}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart/start|align=center|style=font-size:90%}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Nannuka]]'''<br><sup>(1)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 831-845</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vakpati (Chandela dynasty)|Vakpati]]'''<br><sup>(2)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 845-865</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(3)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Vijayashakti]]'''<br><sup>(4)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 865-885</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Rahila]]'''<br><sup>(5)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 885-905</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Harsha]]'''<br><sup>(6)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 905-925</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman I]]'''<br><sup>(7)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 925-950</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Dhanga]]deva'''<br><sup>(8)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 950-999</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandadeva]]'''<br><sup>(9)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 999-1002</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vidyadhara (Chandela ruler)|Vidyadhara]]'''<br><sup>(10)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1003-1035</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Vijayapala]]'''<br><sup>(11)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1035-1050</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Devavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Devavarman]]'''<br><sup>(12)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1050-1060</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Kirttivarman (Chandela dynasty)|Kirttivarman]]'''<br><sup>(13)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1060-1100</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|(| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Sallakshanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(14)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1100-1110</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Prithvivarman]]'''<br><sup>(16)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1120-1128</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Jayavarman (Chandela dynasty)|Jayavarman]]'''<br><sup>(15)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1110-1120</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Madanavarman]]'''<br><sup>(17)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1128-1165</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]]'''<br><sup>(18)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|+|-|-|-|.| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Paramardi]]'''<br><sup>(19)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1165-1203</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Viravarman]]'''<br><sup>(21)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1245-1285</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03=Child of<br>Yashovarman}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart|border=1| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |A01 | |A02 | |A03 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |<br />
A01='''[[Trailokyavarman]]'''<br><sup>(20)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1203–1245</small>|boxstyle_A01=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A02='''[[Hammiravarman]]'''<br><sup>(23)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1288-1311</small>|boxstyle_A02=border-color:#FFD700|<br />
A03='''[[Bhojavarman]]'''<br><sup>(22)</sup><br><small>r. {{circa}} 1285-1288</small>|boxstyle_A03=border-color:#FFD700}}<br />
<br />
{{Tree chart/end}}<br />
<br />
{{Chart bottom}}<br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[History of Madhya Pradesh]]<br />
* [[Chandel (Rajput clan)]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kalanjara]]<br />
* [[Chandelas of Kumaun]]<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Harihar Vitthal Trivedi |title=Inscriptions of the Paramāras (Part 2) |series=Corpus Inscriptionum Indicarum Volume VII: Inscriptions of the Paramāras, Chandēllas, Kachchapaghātas, and two minor dynasties |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8B4LAQAAMAAJ |year=1991 |publisher=[[Archaeological Survey of India]] }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Om Prakash Misra |title=Archaeological Excavations in Central India: Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=o0ISjDDWJwQC&pg=PA11 |year=2003 |publisher=Mittal Publications |isbn=978-81-7099-874-7 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Peter Jackson |author-link=Peter Jackson (historian) |title=The Delhi Sultanate: A Political and Military History |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=lt2tqOpVRKgC&pg=PA199 |year=2003 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-0-521-54329-3 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=R. K. Dikshit |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130 |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Romila Thapar |author-link=Romila Thapar |title=The Past Before Us |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aei9AAAAQBAJ&pg=PA571 |year=2013 |publisher=Harvard University Press |isbn=978-0-674-72651-2 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sisirkumar Mitra |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA113 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
* {{cite book |author=Sushil Kumar Sullerey |title=Chandella Art |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rj8RusFpYHIC&pg=PA25 |year=2004 |publisher=Aakar Books |isbn=978-81-87879-32-9 }}<br />
{{refend}}<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
* {{commons category-inline|Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti| ]]<br />
[[Category:Medieval Indian dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Hindu dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:Bundelkhand]]<br />
[[Category:Rajput dynasties]]<br />
[[Category:9th-century establishments in India]]<br />
[[Category:14th-century disestablishments in India]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Paramardivarman_(Chandela_emperor)&diff=562002Paramardivarman (Chandela emperor)2026-09-13T10:32:44Z<p>Vishvaksena: /* Chahamana raid */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|King of India from 1165 to 1203}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2017}}<br />
{{Infobox royalty<br />
| name = Paramardivarman<br />
| title = Param-bhattaraka, Parameshwara, Param-Maheshwara, Maharajadhiraja, Srīkalanjaradhipati<br />
| succession = [[Chandela| King of Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
| reign = c. 1165-1202 CE<br />
| predecessor = [[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]]<br />
| successor = [[Trailokyavarman]]<br />
| issue = Sabhajitvarman<br>Bramhadevavarman<br>Trailokyavarman <br />
| regnal name = Paramardin<br />
| full name = Srīmat Paramardi Varman Deva<br>[[Sanskrit]]: श्रीमत-परमर्दी-वर्म-देव<br />
| dynasty = [[Chandela|Chandel]]<br />
| house = [[Lunar dynasty|Chandravansh]]<br />
| father = Yashovarman II<br />
| mother =<br />
| religion = [[Shaivism]]<br />
| image = <br />
| image_size = <br />
| alt = <br />
| caption = <br />
}}<br />
'''Paramardivarman'''<ref>{{Cite book |last=Thapar |first=Romila |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ScYJAQAAQBAJ&dq=paramardivarman&pg=PT671 |title=The Past Before Us: Historical Traditions of Early North India |date=2013-11-04 |publisher=Harvard University Press |isbn=978-0-674-72652-9 |language=en}}</ref> (reigned {{circa}} 1165–1203), [[Nagari]]: परमार्दिवर्मन, [[IAST]]: Paramarddi Varman), also known as Parmardideva, was the last great emperor of the [[Chandela|Chandel Empire]]. He succeeded his father [[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman II]] as the king of the [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Jejakabhukti country]]. In 1182, [[Prithviraja III|Prithviraj Chauhan III]] raided and plundered the Madanpura city, which Paramardi varman recaptured after defeating [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari]] in few months. Paramardi signed the Treaty of Kalinjar around 1202–03 during the [[Siege of Kalanjara (1203 CE)]] by the Ghurid general Qutbuddin Aibak, but died before the treaty was finalised.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
===Succession===<br />
Paramardi Varman's [[Bateshwar, Uttar Pradesh|Bateshvar]] inscription suggests that he succeeded his father [[Yashovarman II (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]]. However, other Chandela inscriptions (including those of his own) suggest that he succeeded his grandfather [[Madanavarman]]. It is possible that Yashovarman ruled for a very short period, or did not rule at all, having died while Madanavarman was still alive.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=139-140}}<br />
<br />
According to the ''Parmal Raso'', Paramardi ascended the throne at the age of 5 years. An [[Ajaygarh]] inscription appears to corroborate this claim: it states that Paramardi was a leader even as a child (''bāl-opi netā'').{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=140}}<br />
<br />
<br />
<mapframe text="[[Find spot]]s of the inscriptions from Paramardi's reign{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=119, 124}}" width="400" height="400" zoom="5" longitude="79.63" latitude="25.47"><br />
{<br />
"type": "FeatureCollection",<br />
"features": [<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "[[Ajaygarh]] (or Ajaygadh)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [80.26977, 24.88974] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "[[Bateshwar, Uttar Pradesh|Bateshvar]] (Baghari)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.54203, 26.93506] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "[[Charkhari|Charkhārī]]" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.75010, 25.40188] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Ichhawar, Banda district (Ichchhāvar)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [80.49383, 25.87669] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "[[Kalinjar]] (Kālañjara)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [80.33032, 25.48933] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "[[Mahoba]]" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [79.87242, 25.29210] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Semra Sanodha (or Semra)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.99104, 24.31841] }<br />
},<br />
{<br />
"type": "Feature",<br />
"properties": { "marker-symbol": "monument", "title": "Pachar (or Pachhār)" },<br />
"geometry": { "type": "Point", "coordinates": [78.75612, 25.58556] }<br />
}<br />
]<br />
}<br />
</mapframe><br />
Paramardi Varman was the last of the powerful Chandela rulers, and has been mentioned in several legendary texts such as ''Paramala Raso'' (''Parmal Raso'' or ''Mahoba Khand''), ''[[Prithviraj Raso]]'' and ''Alha-Khand'' (''Alha Raso'' or Ballad of Alha). While these texts are based on historical events, much of their content has been fabricated to glorify either [[Prithviraj Chauhan]]. Thus, these texts are of doubtful historicity, and therefore, much of Paramardi Varman's reign is shrouded in obscurity.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=141}}{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=120}}<br />
<br />
Several Chandela inscriptions also mention Paramardi Varman, but these contain little historical information. For example, the Semra copper-plate inscription vaguely eulogizes him as someonoe who surpassed [[Kamadeva|Makaradhvaja]] (the god of love) in handsomeness, the ocean in depth, the lord of heaven in majesty, [[Brihaspati]] in wisdom, and [[Yudhishthira]] in truthfulness. The Baghari (Bateshvar) stone inscription credits him with military victories and states that other kings bowed to him, but does not name any of these kings.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=141}} The Ajaygarh inscription of his grandson's wife Kalyanadevi similarly describes him as a universal sovereign, whose enemies were left in a pitiful condition.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=141}} Such claims of extensive conquests are not corroborated by historical evidence.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=143}}<br />
<br />
===Names, status and titles===<br />
He is mentioned as Paramardivarman, Paramardivarmandeva, Paramardi[[deva (Hinduism)|deva]], Paramardin, Paramarddi in inscriptions. The medieval bardic legends such as [[Alha-Khand]] call him Paramala or Parimala. In modern [[vernacular]]s, he is also known as Paramardideva, Parmar, Paramal Deo and Parimal Chandel (because of [[Schwa deletion in Indo-Aryan languages|schwa deletion]]). A gold coin issued by him, featuring a seated goddess, gives his name as ''Srimat Paramardi''.{{sfn|P. C. Roy|1980|pp=54-55}}<br />
<br />
The inscriptions from the first few years of Paramardi Varman's reign have been found at Semra (1165-1166 CE), [[Mahoba]] (1166-1167 CE), [[Ichhawar]] (1171 CE), Mahoba (1173 CE), Pachar (1176 CE) and [[Charkhari]] (1178 CE).{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=119}} All of these inscriptions use the imperial titles for him: ''Paramabhattaraka-[[Maharajadhiraja]]-Parameshvara Parama-Maheshvara Shri-Kalanjaradhipati Shrimanmat Paramardivarman''. This indicates that Paramardi Varman retained the all territories of the Chandela of Jejakabhukti, that he had inherited from his grandfather Madanavarman.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=120}}<br />
<br />
==Military career ==<br />
===Against Kalachuris===<br />
In 1182, Paramardivarman defeated and subdued Jayasimha, a ruler of the [[Kalachuris of Tripuri|Kalachuris of Tripuri]]. Paramardivarman's victory over the Kalachuris is attested by epigraphic records. An 1183 CE [[Mahoba]] inscription states that the lord of Tripuri, the Kalachuri capital, fainted upon hearing songs about Paramardivarman's bravery.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=143}}<br />
<br />
=== Chahamana raid ===<br />
{{See also|Chahamana raid on Jejakabhukti}}<br />
In 1182, the [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari|Chahamana]] ruler [[Prithviraj Chauhan|Prithviraja III]] launched a raid into [[Jejakabhukti]] during the reign of [[Paramardi Varman]]. The Chahamana forces raided Chandela territory as far as [[Madanapur]], but the inscriptions of Prithviraj Chauhan themselves do not mention that [[Kalanjara]], the Chandela capital, was captured, conquered, or occupied, nor do they record the defeat of Paramardi. Paramardi Varman subsequently recovered the territory reached by the Chahamanas and repulsed their advance. The raid did not result in the permanent conquest or annexation of Jejakabhukti by the Chahamanas.<br />
<br />
==Ghurid invasion and death ==<br />
{{See also|Siege of Kalinjar}}<br />
<br />
According to a [[Kalanjara]] inscription, while one of Paramardi Varman's predecessors had imprisoned the wives of the earthly rulers, Paramardi Varman's heroics made even the divine rulers anxious about the safety of their wives. As a result, the gods let loose an army of [[mlechchhas]] (foreigners) against him, and made him face a defeat.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=143}}<br />
<br />
Prithviraj Chauhan was killed after [[Second Battle of Tarain]] against the [[Ghurids]] in 1192. After defeating the [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari|Chahamanas]] (Chauhans) and the [[Gahadavala]]s, the Ghurid governor of Delhi planned an invasion of Chandela kingdom.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=147}} A force led by [[Qutb al-Din Aibak]], and accompanied by strong generals such as [[Iltutmish]], besieged the Chandela fort of [[Kalanjara]] in 1202.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=126}}<br />
<br />
''Taj-ul-Maasir'', written by the Delhi chronicler [[Hasan Nizami]], states that Parmar (Paramardivarman) initially offered some resistance, but then fled to the safety of the fort. Subsequently, he surrendered before ruler of Delhi, and agreed to be his vassal.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=147}} He promised to pay a tribute to the Sultan, but died before he could execute this agreement. His [[dewan]] Aj Deo (Ajaya-Deva) continued to resist the ruler of Delhi after his death. The dewan was finally forced to surrender as the water reservoirs within the fort dried up during a drought. ''Taj-ul-Masir'' further states that after the Sultanate's victory, temples were converted into mosques and 50,000 men were taken as slaves. Qutb al-Din Aibak appointed Hazabbar-ud-Din Hasan Arnal as the governor of Kalanjara, and also captured [[Mahoba]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<br />
<br />
The 16th century Muslim historian Firishta states that Paramardi was assassinated by his own minister, who disagreed with the king's decision to surrender to the Delhi forces.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=148}}<br />
<br />
Firishta as well as Fakhruddin Mubarakshah state that the fall of Kalanjara happened in the [[Hijri year]] 599 (1202–1203 CE). According to ''Taj-ul-Masir'', Kalanjara fell on 20th of [[Rajab]], in the Hijri year 599, on Monday. However, this date corresponds to 12 April 1203, which was a Friday. Based on different interpretations of the historical sources, different scholars date the fall of Kalanjara to either 1202 or 1203.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=149}}<br />
<br />
According to the Chandela inscriptions, Paramardi was succeeded by [[Trailokyavarman]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=126}}<br />
<br />
== Administration ==<br />
<br />
According to the Baghari inscription, Paramardivarman placed the burden of government on his prime minister Sallakshana, who was a [[Brahmin]] of [[Vashistha]] [[gotra]].On Paramardivarman's orders Sallakshana commissioned temples dedicated to [[Shiva]] and [[Vishnu]]. After his death, his son Purushottama inherited his post.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=149}}<br />
<br />
The Baghari inscription also mentions one Gadadhara as Paramardivarman's minister of war and peace (''sandhna-vigraha-sachiva''). According to the [[Ajaygarh]] inscription of [[Bhojavarman]], a [[Kayastha]] named Gangadhara was the Kancukin ([[chamberlain (office)|chamberlain]]) of Paramardi. Gangadhara and his brother Jaunadhara are said to have fought at Kalanjara, possibly in the battle against the Delhi forces.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|pp=149-150}}<br />
<br />
Ajayapala and Madanapala, the sons of a former [[senapati]] (general) Kilhana, were two Brahmin senapatis of Paramardivarman.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=150}} Ajayapala is also known to have been a senapati of Paramardi's grandfather [[Madanavarman]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=136}} Muslim chronicles mention Aj Deo (Ajaya-Deva) as a [[dewan]] who continued to resist the Delhi forces after Paramardivarman's death. The medieval bardic tradition also mentions [[Alha]] and [[Udala]] (or Udal) as his generals. Other officers mentioned in the historical records include Mahipala and an ''amatya'' named Vatsaraja.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=150}}<br />
<br />
Paramardivarman was a learned man, and is attributed as the author of a eulogy to [[Shiva]], inscribed on a stone at [[Kalanjara]].{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=150}} He patronized a number of scholars, including:{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=151}}<br />
<br />
* Vatsaraja, the author of ''Rupa-Kashatakam'' (a collection of six plays)<br />
* Gadadhara, a poet styled as ''Kavi-Chakravarti''<br />
* Jaganika, the author of ''Alha-Khanda''<br />
* Gunabhadra Munipa Saiddhanti, the [[Jain]] author of ''Dhanya-Kumara-Charita''<br />
<br />
Although himself a [[Shaivite]], Paramardivarman was tolerant towards Buddhists, Jains and Vaishnavites. A copper-plate inscription shows that when he granted a village to a [[Brahmin]], he respected the rights of a Buddhist shrine located in that village. Several images of the Jain [[tirthankara]]s were set up at various places during his reign.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=151}} The best known of these are at the [[Aharji]] Jain Tirth Near [[Tikamgarh]].{{cn|date=December 2020}} His minister Sallakshana commissioned a [[Vishnu]] temple.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=151}}<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{Reflist|30em}}<br />
<br />
=== Bibliography ===<br />
{{ref begin}}<br />
* {{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=f2Et2zZGJPUC&pg=PA53 |title=The Coinage of Northern India |author=P. C. Roy |publisher=Abhinav |year=1980 |isbn=9788170171225 }}<br />
* {{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a9j9ZJGJOV0C&pg=PA130 |title=The Candellas of Jejākabhukti |author=R. K. Dikshit |publisher=Abhinav |year=1976 |isbn=9788170170464 }}<br />
* {{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA113 |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |author=Sisirkumar Mitra |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 }}<br />
{{ref end}}<br />
<br />
{{Chandelas of Jejakabhukti}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Chandelas of Jejakabhukti]]<br />
[[Category:12th-century Indian monarchs]]<br />
[[Category:13th-century Indian monarchs]]</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chahamana_raid_on_Jejakabhukti&diff=562001Chahamana raid on Jejakabhukti2026-09-13T10:28:34Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox military conflict<br />
| conflict = Chahamana raid on Jejakabhukti<br />
| date = 1182<br />
| place = Jejakabhukti country<br />
| result = Chandela victory<br />
*Chahamana campaign failed<br />
| combatant1 = [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari]]<br />
| combatant2 = [[Chandel Empire]]<br />
| commander1 = [[Prithviraj Chauhan]]<br />
| commander2 = [[Paramardivarman]]<br />
}}<br />
The '''Chahamana raid on Jejakabhukti''' was a military expedition launched by [[Prithviraj Chauhan]] III against the [[Chandel Empire]] in 1182 CE, during the reign of [[Paramardi Varman]]. The Chahamanas raided and plundered Chandela territory as far as [[Madanapur]], but failed to establish permanent control over Madanapura or capture the Chandela capital, [[Kalinjar Fort|Kalanjara]]. Paramardi subsequently recaptured the territory after defeating or repulsing Prithviraja III.<br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
<br />
In the late 12th century, the [[Chandel Empire]] was one of the most prosperous and economically wealthy empires in India. Seeking to plunder its territories and increase the revenues of his kingdom, the Chahamana ruler [[Prithviraja III]] launched a military expedition into Chandela territory in 1182, during the reign of Emperor [[Paramardi Varman]].<br />
<br />
== Raid ==<br />
<br />
In 1182, [[Prithviraja III]] raided [[Jejakabhukti]]. The Chahamana campaign reached the area of [[Madanapura]], where the invading forces plundered the surrounding territory. The available inscriptional evidence records the plundering of the territory but does not state that [[Mahoba]] was captured or occupied by the Chahamanas. Nor does it establish a permanent Chahamana conquest of Jejakabhukti.<br />
<br />
The campaign was followed by the withdrawal of the Chahamana forces. The Chandela ruler [[Paramardi Varman]] retained control of his kingdom, and the Chahamanas did not establish a permanent occupation of Jejakabhukti. The territories conquered by the Chahamanas as far as Madanapura were subsequently recaptured by Paramardi Varman, and the Chahamanas were repulsed.<br />
<br />
== Aftermath ==<br />
<br />
The raid did not result in the annexation of Jejakabhukti by the Chahamanas. [[Paramardi Varman]] continued to rule the [[Chandel Empire]] after the campaign, even after the execution of [[Prithviraja III]] by [[Muhammad of Ghor]] a decade later.<br />
<br />
During the later period, Chauhan bards presented the episode as a historical victory through poetic accounts, while their own inscriptions do not record a victory, occupation, or defeat of Paramardi.<br />
<br />
==Bardic fictions==<br />
According to the medieval ballads, Prithviraj was returning to [[Delhi]] after marrying the daughter of Padamsen. During this journey, he was attacked by Turkic forces ([[Ghurid dynasty|Ghurids]]). The Chauhan army managed to repulse the attacks, but suffered serious casualties in the process. They lost their way, and arrived in the Chandela capital [[Mahoba]]. The Chauhan force, which had a number of wounded soldiers among them, unknowingly set up a camp in the Chandela royal garden. They killed the keeper of the garden for objecting to their presence. When Paramardi learned about this, he sent some soldiers to counter the Chauhan force. The Chandelas suffered heavy losses in the ensuing conflict. Paramardi then decided to send another force led by his general [[Udal of Mahoba|Udal]] against Prithviraj. Udal advised against this proposal, arguing that it would not be appropriate to attack wounded soldiers or to antagonize a powerful king like Prithviraj. However, Paramardi was under the influence of his brother-in-law Mahil Parihar (Pratihara), who secretly harboured ill-will against the Chandelas. Mahil instigated Paramardi to go ahead with the attack plan. The Chandela force led by Udal then launched a second attack against the Chauhan army, but was defeated. The situation subsided when Prithviraj left for Delhi.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=121}}<br />
<br />
Unable to bear Mahil Parihar's political scheming, Udal and his brother [[Alha]] left the Chandela court. They took shelter with [[Jaichand]], the [[Gahadavala]] ruler of [[Kannauj]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=121}} Mahil then sent a secret message to Prithviraj Chauhan, informing him that the best generals of Paramardi had left Mahoba. Instigated by him, Prithviraj set out from Delhi in 1182 CE and marched to the Chandela territory via [[Gwalior]] and [[Bateshwar, Uttar Pradesh|Bateshwar]]. First, he besieged Sirsagarh, which was held by Malkhan, a cousin of Alha and Udal. Prithviraj tried to win over Malkhan, but Malkhan remained loyal to Paramardi and fought against the invaders. After Malkhan killed eight generals of the invading army, Prithviraj himself took charge of the battle. The Chandelas ultimately lost the battle, and Malkhan was killed.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=122}}<br />
<br />
Prithviraj then started a march towards Mahoba. Facing an imminent defeat, Paramardi and his nobles sought a truce on the advice of his chief queen Malhan Devi. Prithviraj agreed to the truce, but remained encamped on the banks of the [[Betwa River]] in the Chandela territory. The Chandelas, meanwhile, requested Alha and Udal to come back from Kannauj.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=122}} The two brothers were initially hesitant, but agreed to return after their mother appealed them to honour their allegiance to the Chandelas. Jaichand dispatched an army led by his best generals, including two of his own sons, to support the Chandelas. Paramardi himself became nervous, and retreated to the [[Kalanjara]] fort with some of his soldiers. His son Brahmajit, along with Alha and Udal, led the Chandela army against Prithviraj Chauhan. In the ensuing battle, the Chandelas were defeated. Brahmajit, Udal and the two sons of Jaichand were killed in the conflict. After his victory, Prithviraj sacked the Chandela capital of Mahoba.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=123}}<br />
<br />
Next, Prithviraj dispatched his general Chavand Rai to Kalanjara. The Chauhan army captured the fort, took Paramardi as prisoner, and marched back towards Delhi.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} According to the ''Parmal Raso'', Alha's son Indal Kumar launched a surprise attack on the returning Chauhan army, and freed Paramardi. Out of shame, Paramardi later committed suicide at the Gajraj temple.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} ''Parmal Raso'' states that his 50 wives committed [[sati (practice)|sati]] (self-immolation) after his death.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=149}} According to [[Chand Bardai]], he retired to [[Gaya, India|Gaya]] and died there.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} The ''[[Prithviraj Raso]]'' states that Prithviraj appointed Pajjun Rai as the governor of Mahoba. Later, Paramardi's son Samarjit recaptured Mahoba with help of Narasimha, an officer of Jaichand. Samarjit then ruled the territory between Kalanjara and Gaya. However, no such prince is mentioned in the epigraphical records.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=125}}<br />
<br />
The exact historicity of this legendary narrative is unreliable, as well as the claim of Chauhan occupation of Mahoba or Kalanjara by Chauhans is not supported by historical evidence.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=125}} Moreover, it is known that Paramardi did not die or retire immediately after the Chauhan victory. He is known to have issued several inscriptions after this event: the Kalanjara rock inscription, the 1183 CE Mahoba stone inscription, the 1187 CE [[Ajaygarh]] stone inscription, the 1195 CE Baghari (Bateshvar) stone inscription, and the 1201 CE Kalanjara stone inscription.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} These records give imperial titles for Paramardi Varman, indicating that he remained a sovereign emperor. The Muslim chronicles also provide evidence that Paramardi Varman ruled until the beginning of the next century, when the Delhi Sultanate invaded the Chandela kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=125}} These evidences suggest that Paramardi Varman was never really lost his sovereignty, not was defeated by Prithviraja, as well as he captured the occupied territories till Madanpur in a month. All these stories are nothing but a bardic fiction, propagated by Bhats via Prithviraja Raso and Parmalaraso. {{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=126}}<br />
==References==</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chahamana_raid_on_Jejakabhukti&diff=562000Chahamana raid on Jejakabhukti2026-09-13T10:28:16Z<p>Vishvaksena: /* Bardic fictions */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox military conflict<br />
| conflict = Chahamana raid on Jejakabhukti<br />
| date = 1182<br />
| place = Jejakabhukti country<br />
| result = Chandela victory<br />
*Chahamana campaign failed<br />
| combatant1 = [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari]]<br />
| combatant2 = [[Chandel Empire]]<br />
| commander1 = [[Prithviraj Chauhan]]<br />
| commander2 = [[Paramardivarman]]<br />
}}<br />
The '''Chahamana raid on Jejakabhukti''' was a military expedition launched by [[Prithviraj Chauhan]] III against the [[Chandel Empire]] in 1182 CE, during the reign of [[Paramardi Varman]]. The Chahamanas raided and plundered Chandela territory as far as [[Madanapur]], but failed to establish permanent control over Madanapura or capture the Chandela capital, [[Kalinjar Fort|Kalanjara]]. Paramardi subsequently recaptured the territory after defeating or repulsing Prithviraja III.<br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
<br />
In the late 12th century, the [[Chandel Empire]] was one of the most prosperous and economically wealthy empires in India. Seeking to plunder its territories and increase the revenues of his kingdom, the Chahamana ruler [[Prithviraja III]] launched a military expedition into Chandela territory in 1182, during the reign of Emperor [[Paramardi Varman]].<br />
<br />
== Raid ==<br />
<br />
In 1182, [[Prithviraja III]] raided [[Jejakabhukti]]. The Chahamana campaign reached the area of [[Madanapura]], where the invading forces plundered the surrounding territory. The available inscriptional evidence records the plundering of the territory but does not state that [[Mahoba]] was captured or occupied by the Chahamanas. Nor does it establish a permanent Chahamana conquest of Jejakabhukti.<br />
<br />
The campaign was followed by the withdrawal of the Chahamana forces. The Chandela ruler [[Paramardi Varman]] retained control of his kingdom, and the Chahamanas did not establish a permanent occupation of Jejakabhukti. The territories conquered by the Chahamanas as far as Madanapura were subsequently recaptured by Paramardi Varman, and the Chahamanas were repulsed.<br />
<br />
== Aftermath ==<br />
<br />
The raid did not result in the annexation of Jejakabhukti by the Chahamanas. [[Paramardi Varman]] continued to rule the [[Chandel Empire]] after the campaign, even after the execution of [[Prithviraja III]] by [[Muhammad of Ghor]] a decade later.<br />
<br />
During the later period, Chauhan bards presented the episode as a historical victory through poetic accounts, while their own inscriptions do not record a victory, occupation, or defeat of Paramardi.<br />
<br />
==Bardic fictions==<br />
According to the medieval ballads, Prithviraj was returning to [[Delhi]] after marrying the daughter of Padamsen. During this journey, he was attacked by Turkic forces ([[Ghurid dynasty|Ghurids]]). The Chauhan army managed to repulse the attacks, but suffered serious casualties in the process. They lost their way, and arrived in the Chandela capital [[Mahoba]]. The Chauhan force, which had a number of wounded soldiers among them, unknowingly set up a camp in the Chandela royal garden. They killed the keeper of the garden for objecting to their presence. When Paramardi learned about this, he sent some soldiers to counter the Chauhan force. The Chandelas suffered heavy losses in the ensuing conflict. Paramardi then decided to send another force led by his general [[Udal of Mahoba|Udal]] against Prithviraj. Udal advised against this proposal, arguing that it would not be appropriate to attack wounded soldiers or to antagonize a powerful king like Prithviraj. However, Paramardi was under the influence of his brother-in-law Mahil Parihar (Pratihara), who secretly harboured ill-will against the Chandelas. Mahil instigated Paramardi to go ahead with the attack plan. The Chandela force led by Udal then launched a second attack against the Chauhan army, but was defeated. The situation subsided when Prithviraj left for Delhi.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=121}}<br />
<br />
Unable to bear Mahil Parihar's political scheming, Udal and his brother [[Alha]] left the Chandela court. They took shelter with [[Jaichand]], the [[Gahadavala]] ruler of [[Kannauj]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=121}} Mahil then sent a secret message to Prithviraj Chauhan, informing him that the best generals of Paramardi had left Mahoba. Instigated by him, Prithviraj set out from Delhi in 1182 CE and marched to the Chandela territory via [[Gwalior]] and [[Bateshwar, Uttar Pradesh|Bateshwar]]. First, he besieged Sirsagarh, which was held by Malkhan, a cousin of Alha and Udal. Prithviraj tried to win over Malkhan, but Malkhan remained loyal to Paramardi and fought against the invaders. After Malkhan killed eight generals of the invading army, Prithviraj himself took charge of the battle. The Chandelas ultimately lost the battle, and Malkhan was killed.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=122}}<br />
<br />
Prithviraj then started a march towards Mahoba. Facing an imminent defeat, Paramardi and his nobles sought a truce on the advice of his chief queen Malhan Devi. Prithviraj agreed to the truce, but remained encamped on the banks of the [[Betwa River]] in the Chandela territory. The Chandelas, meanwhile, requested Alha and Udal to come back from Kannauj.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=122}} The two brothers were initially hesitant, but agreed to return after their mother appealed them to honour their allegiance to the Chandelas. Jaichand dispatched an army led by his best generals, including two of his own sons, to support the Chandelas. Paramardi himself became nervous, and retreated to the [[Kalanjara]] fort with some of his soldiers. His son Brahmajit, along with Alha and Udal, led the Chandela army against Prithviraj Chauhan. In the ensuing battle, the Chandelas were defeated. Brahmajit, Udal and the two sons of Jaichand were killed in the conflict. After his victory, Prithviraj sacked the Chandela capital of Mahoba.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=123}}<br />
<br />
Next, Prithviraj dispatched his general Chavand Rai to Kalanjara. The Chauhan army captured the fort, took Paramardi as prisoner, and marched back towards Delhi.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} According to the ''Parmal Raso'', Alha's son Indal Kumar launched a surprise attack on the returning Chauhan army, and freed Paramardi. Out of shame, Paramardi later committed suicide at the Gajraj temple.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} ''Parmal Raso'' states that his 50 wives committed [[sati (practice)|sati]] (self-immolation) after his death.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=149}} According to [[Chand Bardai]], he retired to [[Gaya, India|Gaya]] and died there.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} The ''[[Prithviraj Raso]]'' states that Prithviraj appointed Pajjun Rai as the governor of Mahoba. Later, Paramardi's son Samarjit recaptured Mahoba with help of Narasimha, an officer of Jaichand. Samarjit then ruled the territory between Kalanjara and Gaya. However, no such prince is mentioned in the epigraphical records.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=125}}<br />
<br />
The exact historicity of this legendary narrative is unreliable, as well as the claim of Chauhan occupation of Mahoba or Kalanjara by Chauhans is not supported by historical evidence.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=125}} Moreover, it is known that Paramardi did not die or retire immediately after the Chauhan victory. He is known to have issued several inscriptions after this event: the Kalanjara rock inscription, the 1183 CE Mahoba stone inscription, the 1187 CE [[Ajaygarh]] stone inscription, the 1195 CE Baghari (Bateshvar) stone inscription, and the 1201 CE Kalanjara stone inscription.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} These records give imperial titles for Paramardi Varman, indicating that he remained a sovereign emperor. The Muslim chronicles also provide evidence that Paramardi Varman ruled until the beginning of the next century, when the Delhi Sultanate invaded the Chandela kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=125}} These evidences suggest that Paramardi Varman was never really lost his sovereignty, not was defeated by Prithviraja, as well as he captured the occupied territories till Madanpur in a month. All these stories are nothing but a bardic fiction, propagated by Bhats via Prithviraja Raso and Parmalaraso. {{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=126}}<br />
===References===</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chahamana_raid_on_Jejakabhukti&diff=561998Chahamana raid on Jejakabhukti2026-09-13T10:27:34Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox military conflict<br />
| conflict = Chahamana raid on Jejakabhukti<br />
| date = 1182<br />
| place = Jejakabhukti country<br />
| result = Chandela victory<br />
*Chahamana campaign failed<br />
| combatant1 = [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari]]<br />
| combatant2 = [[Chandel Empire]]<br />
| commander1 = [[Prithviraj Chauhan]]<br />
| commander2 = [[Paramardivarman]]<br />
}}<br />
The '''Chahamana raid on Jejakabhukti''' was a military expedition launched by [[Prithviraj Chauhan]] III against the [[Chandel Empire]] in 1182 CE, during the reign of [[Paramardi Varman]]. The Chahamanas raided and plundered Chandela territory as far as [[Madanapur]], but failed to establish permanent control over Madanapura or capture the Chandela capital, [[Kalinjar Fort|Kalanjara]]. Paramardi subsequently recaptured the territory after defeating or repulsing Prithviraja III.<br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
<br />
In the late 12th century, the [[Chandel Empire]] was one of the most prosperous and economically wealthy empires in India. Seeking to plunder its territories and increase the revenues of his kingdom, the Chahamana ruler [[Prithviraja III]] launched a military expedition into Chandela territory in 1182, during the reign of Emperor [[Paramardi Varman]].<br />
<br />
== Raid ==<br />
<br />
In 1182, [[Prithviraja III]] raided [[Jejakabhukti]]. The Chahamana campaign reached the area of [[Madanapura]], where the invading forces plundered the surrounding territory. The available inscriptional evidence records the plundering of the territory but does not state that [[Mahoba]] was captured or occupied by the Chahamanas. Nor does it establish a permanent Chahamana conquest of Jejakabhukti.<br />
<br />
The campaign was followed by the withdrawal of the Chahamana forces. The Chandela ruler [[Paramardi Varman]] retained control of his kingdom, and the Chahamanas did not establish a permanent occupation of Jejakabhukti. The territories conquered by the Chahamanas as far as Madanapura were subsequently recaptured by Paramardi Varman, and the Chahamanas were repulsed.<br />
<br />
== Aftermath ==<br />
<br />
The raid did not result in the annexation of Jejakabhukti by the Chahamanas. [[Paramardi Varman]] continued to rule the [[Chandel Empire]] after the campaign, even after the execution of [[Prithviraja III]] by [[Muhammad of Ghor]] a decade later.<br />
<br />
During the later period, Chauhan bards presented the episode as a historical victory through poetic accounts, while their own inscriptions do not record a victory, occupation, or defeat of Paramardi.<br />
<br />
==Bardic fictions==<br />
According to the medieval ballads, Prithviraj was returning to [[Delhi]] after marrying the daughter of Padamsen. During this journey, he was attacked by Turkic forces ([[Ghurid dynasty|Ghurids]]). The Chauhan army managed to repulse the attacks, but suffered serious casualties in the process. They lost their way, and arrived in the Chandela capital [[Mahoba]]. The Chauhan force, which had a number of wounded soldiers among them, unknowingly set up a camp in the Chandela royal garden. They killed the keeper of the garden for objecting to their presence. When Paramardi learned about this, he sent some soldiers to counter the Chauhan force. The Chandelas suffered heavy losses in the ensuing conflict. Paramardi then decided to send another force led by his general [[Udal of Mahoba|Udal]] against Prithviraj. Udal advised against this proposal, arguing that it would not be appropriate to attack wounded soldiers or to antagonize a powerful king like Prithviraj. However, Paramardi was under the influence of his brother-in-law Mahil Parihar (Pratihara), who secretly harboured ill-will against the Chandelas. Mahil instigated Paramardi to go ahead with the attack plan. The Chandela force led by Udal then launched a second attack against the Chauhan army, but was defeated. The situation subsided when Prithviraj left for Delhi.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=121}}<br />
<br />
Unable to bear Mahil Parihar's political scheming, Udal and his brother [[Alha]] left the Chandela court. They took shelter with [[Jaichand]], the [[Gahadavala]] ruler of [[Kannauj]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=121}} Mahil then sent a secret message to Prithviraj Chauhan, informing him that the best generals of Paramardi had left Mahoba. Instigated by him, Prithviraj set out from Delhi in 1182 CE and marched to the Chandela territory via [[Gwalior]] and [[Bateshwar, Uttar Pradesh|Bateshwar]]. First, he besieged Sirsagarh, which was held by Malkhan, a cousin of Alha and Udal. Prithviraj tried to win over Malkhan, but Malkhan remained loyal to Paramardi and fought against the invaders. After Malkhan killed eight generals of the invading army, Prithviraj himself took charge of the battle. The Chandelas ultimately lost the battle, and Malkhan was killed.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=122}}<br />
<br />
Prithviraj then started a march towards Mahoba. Facing an imminent defeat, Paramardi and his nobles sought a truce on the advice of his chief queen Malhan Devi. Prithviraj agreed to the truce, but remained encamped on the banks of the [[Betwa River]] in the Chandela territory. The Chandelas, meanwhile, requested Alha and Udal to come back from Kannauj.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=122}} The two brothers were initially hesitant, but agreed to return after their mother appealed them to honour their allegiance to the Chandelas. Jaichand dispatched an army led by his best generals, including two of his own sons, to support the Chandelas. Paramardi himself became nervous, and retreated to the [[Kalanjara]] fort with some of his soldiers. His son Brahmajit, along with Alha and Udal, led the Chandela army against Prithviraj Chauhan. In the ensuing battle, the Chandelas were defeated. Brahmajit, Udal and the two sons of Jaichand were killed in the conflict. After his victory, Prithviraj sacked the Chandela capital of Mahoba.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=123}}<br />
<br />
Next, Prithviraj dispatched his general Chavand Rai to Kalanjara. The Chauhan army captured the fort, took Paramardi as prisoner, and marched back towards Delhi.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} According to the ''Parmal Raso'', Alha's son Indal Kumar launched a surprise attack on the returning Chauhan army, and freed Paramardi. Out of shame, Paramardi later committed suicide at the Gajraj temple.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} ''Parmal Raso'' states that his 50 wives committed [[sati (practice)|sati]] (self-immolation) after his death.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=149}} According to [[Chand Bardai]], he retired to [[Gaya, India|Gaya]] and died there.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} The ''[[Prithviraj Raso]]'' states that Prithviraj appointed Pajjun Rai as the governor of Mahoba. Later, Paramardi's son Samarjit recaptured Mahoba with help of Narasimha, an officer of Jaichand. Samarjit then ruled the territory between Kalanjara and Gaya. However, no such prince is mentioned in the epigraphical records.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=125}}<br />
<br />
The exact historicity of this legendary narrative is unreliable, as well as the claim of Chauhan occupation of Mahoba or Kalanjara by Chauhans is not supported by historical evidence.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=125}} Moreover, it is known that Paramardi did not die or retire immediately after the Chauhan victory. He is known to have issued several inscriptions after this event: the Kalanjara rock inscription, the 1183 CE Mahoba stone inscription, the 1187 CE [[Ajaygarh]] stone inscription, the 1195 CE Baghari (Bateshvar) stone inscription, and the 1201 CE Kalanjara stone inscription.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} These records give imperial titles for Paramardi Varman, indicating that he remained a sovereign emperor. The Muslim chronicles also provide evidence that Paramardi Varman ruled until the beginning of the next century, when the Delhi Sultanate invaded the Chandela kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=125}} These evidences suggest that Paramardi Varman was never really lost his sovereignty, not was defeated by Prithviraja, as well as he captured the occupied territories till Madanpur in a month. All these stories are nothing but a bardic fiction, propagated by Bhats via Prithviraja Raso and Parmalaraso. {{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=126}}</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chahamana_raid_on_Jejakabhukti&diff=561995Chahamana raid on Jejakabhukti2026-09-13T10:23:50Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox military conflict<br />
| conflict = Chahamana raid on Jejakabhukti<br />
| date = 1182<br />
| place = Jejakabhukti country<br />
| result = Chandela victory<br />
*Chahamana campaign failed<br />
| combatant1 = [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari]]<br />
| combatant2 = [[Chandel Empire]]<br />
| commander1 = [[Prithviraj Chauhan]]<br />
| commander2 = [[Paramardivarman]]<br />
}}<br />
The '''Chahamana raid on Jejakabhukti''', then the country of the [[Chandel Empire]], took place in 1182. The Chahamana ruler Prithviraja III ([[Prithviraj Chauhan]]) led a campaign into Chandela territory, and looted it up to Madanpur city.<br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
<br />
In the late 12th century, the [[Chandel Empire]] was one of the most prosperous and economically wealthy empires in India. Seeking to plunder its territories and increase the revenues of his kingdom, the Chahamana ruler [[Prithviraja III]] launched a military expedition into Chandela territory in 1182, during the reign of Emperor [[Paramardi Varman]].<br />
<br />
== Raid ==<br />
<br />
In 1182, [[Prithviraja III]] raided [[Jejakabhukti]]. The Chahamana campaign reached the area of [[Madanapura]], where the invading forces plundered the surrounding territory. The available inscriptional evidence records the plundering of the territory but does not state that [[Mahoba]] was captured or occupied by the Chahamanas. Nor does it establish a permanent Chahamana conquest of Jejakabhukti.<br />
<br />
The campaign was followed by the withdrawal of the Chahamana forces. The Chandela ruler [[Paramardi Varman]] retained control of his kingdom, and the Chahamanas did not establish a permanent occupation of Jejakabhukti. The territories conquered by the Chahamanas as far as Madanapura were subsequently recaptured by Paramardi Varman, and the Chahamanas were repulsed.<br />
<br />
== Aftermath ==<br />
<br />
The raid did not result in the annexation of Jejakabhukti by the Chahamanas. [[Paramardi Varman]] continued to rule the [[Chandel Empire]] after the campaign, even after the execution of [[Prithviraja III]] by [[Muhammad of Ghor]] a decade later.<br />
<br />
During the later period, Chauhan bards presented the episode as a historical victory through poetic accounts, while their own inscriptions do not record a victory, occupation, or defeat of Paramardi.<br />
<br />
==Bardic fictions==<br />
According to the medieval ballads, Prithviraj was returning to [[Delhi]] after marrying the daughter of Padamsen. During this journey, he was attacked by Turkic forces ([[Ghurid dynasty|Ghurids]]). The Chauhan army managed to repulse the attacks, but suffered serious casualties in the process. They lost their way, and arrived in the Chandela capital [[Mahoba]]. The Chauhan force, which had a number of wounded soldiers among them, unknowingly set up a camp in the Chandela royal garden. They killed the keeper of the garden for objecting to their presence. When Paramardi learned about this, he sent some soldiers to counter the Chauhan force. The Chandelas suffered heavy losses in the ensuing conflict. Paramardi then decided to send another force led by his general [[Udal of Mahoba|Udal]] against Prithviraj. Udal advised against this proposal, arguing that it would not be appropriate to attack wounded soldiers or to antagonize a powerful king like Prithviraj. However, Paramardi was under the influence of his brother-in-law Mahil Parihar (Pratihara), who secretly harboured ill-will against the Chandelas. Mahil instigated Paramardi to go ahead with the attack plan. The Chandela force led by Udal then launched a second attack against the Chauhan army, but was defeated. The situation subsided when Prithviraj left for Delhi.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=121}}<br />
<br />
Unable to bear Mahil Parihar's political scheming, Udal and his brother [[Alha]] left the Chandela court. They took shelter with [[Jaichand]], the [[Gahadavala]] ruler of [[Kannauj]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=121}} Mahil then sent a secret message to Prithviraj Chauhan, informing him that the best generals of Paramardi had left Mahoba. Instigated by him, Prithviraj set out from Delhi in 1182 CE and marched to the Chandela territory via [[Gwalior]] and [[Bateshwar, Uttar Pradesh|Bateshwar]]. First, he besieged Sirsagarh, which was held by Malkhan, a cousin of Alha and Udal. Prithviraj tried to win over Malkhan, but Malkhan remained loyal to Paramardi and fought against the invaders. After Malkhan killed eight generals of the invading army, Prithviraj himself took charge of the battle. The Chandelas ultimately lost the battle, and Malkhan was killed.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=122}}<br />
<br />
Prithviraj then started a march towards Mahoba. Facing an imminent defeat, Paramardi and his nobles sought a truce on the advice of his chief queen Malhan Devi. Prithviraj agreed to the truce, but remained encamped on the banks of the [[Betwa River]] in the Chandela territory. The Chandelas, meanwhile, requested Alha and Udal to come back from Kannauj.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=122}} The two brothers were initially hesitant, but agreed to return after their mother appealed them to honour their allegiance to the Chandelas. Jaichand dispatched an army led by his best generals, including two of his own sons, to support the Chandelas. Paramardi himself became nervous, and retreated to the [[Kalanjara]] fort with some of his soldiers. His son Brahmajit, along with Alha and Udal, led the Chandela army against Prithviraj Chauhan. In the ensuing battle, the Chandelas were defeated. Brahmajit, Udal and the two sons of Jaichand were killed in the conflict. After his victory, Prithviraj sacked the Chandela capital of Mahoba.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=123}}<br />
<br />
Next, Prithviraj dispatched his general Chavand Rai to Kalanjara. The Chauhan army captured the fort, took Paramardi as prisoner, and marched back towards Delhi.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} According to the ''Parmal Raso'', Alha's son Indal Kumar launched a surprise attack on the returning Chauhan army, and freed Paramardi. Out of shame, Paramardi later committed suicide at the Gajraj temple.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} ''Parmal Raso'' states that his 50 wives committed [[sati (practice)|sati]] (self-immolation) after his death.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=149}} According to [[Chand Bardai]], he retired to [[Gaya, India|Gaya]] and died there.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} The ''[[Prithviraj Raso]]'' states that Prithviraj appointed Pajjun Rai as the governor of Mahoba. Later, Paramardi's son Samarjit recaptured Mahoba with help of Narasimha, an officer of Jaichand. Samarjit then ruled the territory between Kalanjara and Gaya. However, no such prince is mentioned in the epigraphical records.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=125}}<br />
<br />
The exact historicity of this legendary narrative is unreliable, as well as the claim of Chauhan occupation of Mahoba or Kalanjara by Chauhans is not supported by historical evidence.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=125}} Moreover, it is known that Paramardi did not die or retire immediately after the Chauhan victory. He is known to have issued several inscriptions after this event: the Kalanjara rock inscription, the 1183 CE Mahoba stone inscription, the 1187 CE [[Ajaygarh]] stone inscription, the 1195 CE Baghari (Bateshvar) stone inscription, and the 1201 CE Kalanjara stone inscription.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} These records give imperial titles for Paramardi Varman, indicating that he remained a sovereign emperor. The Muslim chronicles also provide evidence that Paramardi Varman ruled until the beginning of the next century, when the Delhi Sultanate invaded the Chandela kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=125}} These evidences suggest that Paramardi Varman was never really lost his sovereignty, not was defeated by Prithviraja, as well as he captured the occupied territories till Madanpur in a month. All these stories are nothing but a bardic fiction, propagated by Bhats via Prithviraja Raso and Parmalaraso. {{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=126}}</div>Vishvaksenahttps://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chahamana_raid_on_Jejakabhukti&diff=561994Chahamana raid on Jejakabhukti2026-09-13T10:16:39Z<p>Vishvaksena: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox military conflict<br />
| conflict = Chahamana raid on Jejakabhukti<br />
| date = 1182<br />
| place = Jejakabhukti country<br />
| result = Chandela victory<br />
*Chahamana campaign failed<br />
| combatant1 = [[Chahamanas of Shakambhari]]<br />
| combatant2 = [[Chandel Empire]]<br />
| commander1 = [[Prithviraj Chauhan]]<br />
| commander2 = [[Paramardivarman]]<br />
}}<br />
The '''Chahamana raid on Jejakabhukti''', then the country of the [[Chandel Empire]], took place in 1182. The Chahamana ruler Prithviraja III ([[Prithviraj Chauhan]]) led a campaign into Chandela territory, and looted it up to Madanpur city.<br />
<br />
==Bardic fictions==<br />
According to the medieval ballads, Prithviraj was returning to [[Delhi]] after marrying the daughter of Padamsen. During this journey, he was attacked by Turkic forces ([[Ghurid dynasty|Ghurids]]). The Chauhan army managed to repulse the attacks, but suffered serious casualties in the process. They lost their way, and arrived in the Chandela capital [[Mahoba]]. The Chauhan force, which had a number of wounded soldiers among them, unknowingly set up a camp in the Chandela royal garden. They killed the keeper of the garden for objecting to their presence. When Paramardi learned about this, he sent some soldiers to counter the Chauhan force. The Chandelas suffered heavy losses in the ensuing conflict. Paramardi then decided to send another force led by his general [[Udal of Mahoba|Udal]] against Prithviraj. Udal advised against this proposal, arguing that it would not be appropriate to attack wounded soldiers or to antagonize a powerful king like Prithviraj. However, Paramardi was under the influence of his brother-in-law Mahil Parihar (Pratihara), who secretly harboured ill-will against the Chandelas. Mahil instigated Paramardi to go ahead with the attack plan. The Chandela force led by Udal then launched a second attack against the Chauhan army, but was defeated. The situation subsided when Prithviraj left for Delhi.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=121}}<br />
<br />
Unable to bear Mahil Parihar's political scheming, Udal and his brother [[Alha]] left the Chandela court. They took shelter with [[Jaichand]], the [[Gahadavala]] ruler of [[Kannauj]].{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=121}} Mahil then sent a secret message to Prithviraj Chauhan, informing him that the best generals of Paramardi had left Mahoba. Instigated by him, Prithviraj set out from Delhi in 1182 CE and marched to the Chandela territory via [[Gwalior]] and [[Bateshwar, Uttar Pradesh|Bateshwar]]. First, he besieged Sirsagarh, which was held by Malkhan, a cousin of Alha and Udal. Prithviraj tried to win over Malkhan, but Malkhan remained loyal to Paramardi and fought against the invaders. After Malkhan killed eight generals of the invading army, Prithviraj himself took charge of the battle. The Chandelas ultimately lost the battle, and Malkhan was killed.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=122}}<br />
<br />
Prithviraj then started a march towards Mahoba. Facing an imminent defeat, Paramardi and his nobles sought a truce on the advice of his chief queen Malhan Devi. Prithviraj agreed to the truce, but remained encamped on the banks of the [[Betwa River]] in the Chandela territory. The Chandelas, meanwhile, requested Alha and Udal to come back from Kannauj.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=122}} The two brothers were initially hesitant, but agreed to return after their mother appealed them to honour their allegiance to the Chandelas. Jaichand dispatched an army led by his best generals, including two of his own sons, to support the Chandelas. Paramardi himself became nervous, and retreated to the [[Kalanjara]] fort with some of his soldiers. His son Brahmajit, along with Alha and Udal, led the Chandela army against Prithviraj Chauhan. In the ensuing battle, the Chandelas were defeated. Brahmajit, Udal and the two sons of Jaichand were killed in the conflict. After his victory, Prithviraj sacked the Chandela capital of Mahoba.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=123}}<br />
<br />
Next, Prithviraj dispatched his general Chavand Rai to Kalanjara. The Chauhan army captured the fort, took Paramardi as prisoner, and marched back towards Delhi.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} According to the ''Parmal Raso'', Alha's son Indal Kumar launched a surprise attack on the returning Chauhan army, and freed Paramardi. Out of shame, Paramardi later committed suicide at the Gajraj temple.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} ''Parmal Raso'' states that his 50 wives committed [[sati (practice)|sati]] (self-immolation) after his death.{{sfn|R. K. Dikshit|1976|p=149}} According to [[Chand Bardai]], he retired to [[Gaya, India|Gaya]] and died there.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} The ''[[Prithviraj Raso]]'' states that Prithviraj appointed Pajjun Rai as the governor of Mahoba. Later, Paramardi's son Samarjit recaptured Mahoba with help of Narasimha, an officer of Jaichand. Samarjit then ruled the territory between Kalanjara and Gaya. However, no such prince is mentioned in the epigraphical records.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=125}}<br />
<br />
The exact historicity of this legendary narrative is unreliable, as well as the claim of Chauhan occupation of Mahoba or Kalanjara by Chauhans is not supported by historical evidence.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=125}} Moreover, it is known that Paramardi did not die or retire immediately after the Chauhan victory. He is known to have issued several inscriptions after this event: the Kalanjara rock inscription, the 1183 CE Mahoba stone inscription, the 1187 CE [[Ajaygarh]] stone inscription, the 1195 CE Baghari (Bateshvar) stone inscription, and the 1201 CE Kalanjara stone inscription.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=124}} These records give imperial titles for Paramardi Varman, indicating that he remained a sovereign emperor. The Muslim chronicles also provide evidence that Paramardi Varman ruled until the beginning of the next century, when the Delhi Sultanate invaded the Chandela kingdom.{{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=125}} These evidences suggest that Paramardi Varman was never really lost his sovereignty, not was defeated by Prithviraja, as well as he captured the occupied territories till Madanpur in a month. All these stories are nothing but a bardic fiction, propagated by Bhats via Prithviraja Raso and Parmalaraso. {{sfn|Sisirkumar Mitra|1977|p=126}}</div>Vishvaksena