Chandelas of Jejakabhukti (Chandel Empire): Difference between revisions

From Bharatpedia, an open encyclopedia
Tags: Mobile edit Mobile web edit
No edit summary
Tags: Mobile edit Mobile web edit
 
(7 intermediate revisions by the same user not shown)
Line 10: Line 10:
| year_leader2          = 1165-1203 CE
| year_leader2          = 1165-1203 CE
| leader2              = [[Paramardivarman|Paramardivarman I]] (Last emperor)
| leader2              = [[Paramardivarman|Paramardivarman I]] (Last emperor)
| leader3              = [[Kirttivarman II]] (Last ruler)
| leader3              = [[Kirttivarman II (Chandel dynasty)|Kirttivarman II]] (Last ruler)
| year_leader3          = 1487-1545 CE
| year_leader3          = 1487-1545 CE
| title_leader          = [[Emperor]] ([[Emperor|Kalanjaradhipati]])
| title_leader          = [[Emperor]] ([[Emperor|Kalanjaradhipati]])
Line 34: Line 34:
|capital                = {{ubl|[[Khajuraho]] (Architecture capital)|[[Kalanjara]] (Administrative capital)|[[Mahoba]] (Military capital)}}
|capital                = {{ubl|[[Khajuraho]] (Architecture capital)|[[Kalanjara]] (Administrative capital)|[[Mahoba]] (Military capital)}}
|common_languages      = [[Sanskrit]]
|common_languages      = [[Sanskrit]]
|religion              = {{ubl|[[Hinduism]]|[[Jainism]]}}
|religion              = '''Mainly'''<br>[[Pashupata|Pashupata Shaivism]]<br>'''Some'''<br>[[Vaishnavism]]
|today = [[India]]
|today = [[India]]
|currency              =
|currency              =
Line 44: Line 44:
| symbol_type      = Coinage of [[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshanavarman]] (1120–1135 CE), Chandelas of Jejakabhukti
| symbol_type      = Coinage of [[Sallakshanavarman|Sallakshanavarman]] (1120–1135 CE), Chandelas of Jejakabhukti
}}
}}
The '''Chandelas of Jejakabhukti''', ([[Devanagari]]: जेजाकभुक्ति के चन्देल, colloquially known as the '''Chandel of Mahoba'''<ref>{{Cite book |last=Raychaudhuri |first=Tapan |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=L-s8AAAAIAAJ&pg=PA93&dq=Chandelas+of+Mahoba&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjf2YSlqsWCAxVHQ2cHHWz4CwQQ6AF6BAgOEAM |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 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Cunningham |first=Sir Alexander |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=4V4CAAAAYAAJ&pg=PP19&dq=Chandelas+of+Mahoba&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjf2YSlqsWCAxVHQ2cHHWz4CwQQ6AF6BAgLEAM#v=onepage&q=Chandelas%20of%20Mahoba&f=false |title=Coins of Ancient India from the Earliest Times Down to the Seventh Century A.D. |date=1891 |publisher=Quaritch |language=en}}</ref> or '''Chandel Empire'''<ref>{{Cite book |last=Gangoly |first=Ordhendra Coomar |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=leBOAAAAYAAJ&q=Chandela+Empire&dq=Chandela+Empire&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiGkrORpsWCAxXkSWwGHVbZCo0Q6AF6BAgKEAM#Chandela%20Empire |title=The Art of the Chandelas |date=1957 |publisher=Rupa |language=en}}</ref>) was an Indian dynasty, which was founded by [[Heheya Kingdom|Haihayavanshi]] Chandel ruler [[Nannuka|Chandravarman II (Nannukavarman)]]. Chandels once ruled almost the entire India from there capital in Jejakabhukti region and saved Hindus from Muslim invaders.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=TKvEEAAAQBAJ&pg=PA321&dq=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2+%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%9C%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%B6+%E0%A4%95%E0%A5%80+%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A5%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%BE+%E0%A4%B9%E0%A5%88%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%80+%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%9C%E0%A4%BE+%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%A8+%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=2ahUKEwi5woqH9ceDAxWwklYBHUfNA58Q6AF6BAgGEAM#v=onepage&q=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2%20&f=false|title=Raja Bhoj Parmaron Ki Gorvanshiya Virasat|last=sakalle|first=Jairam Sitaram Pawar & Vinayak|date=2023-06-13|publisher=Blue Rose Publishers|language=hi}}</ref><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=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=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=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> They belonged to the [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel Yādava]] clan of the [[Rajput|Chandravanshi Rajput]]s.<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}}
 
The '''Chandelas of Jejakabhukti''' ([[Devanagri]]: जेजाकभुक्ति के चन्देल, colloquially known as the '''Chandel of Mahoba'''<ref>{{Cite book |last=Raychaudhuri |first=Tapan |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=L-s8AAAAIAAJ&pg=PA93&dq=Chandelas+of+Mahoba&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjf2YSlqsWCAxVHQ2cHHWz4CwQQ6AF6BAgOEAM |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 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Cunningham |first=Sir Alexander |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=4V4CAAAAYAAJ&pg=PP19&dq=Chandelas+of+Mahoba&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjf2YSlqsWCAxVHQ2cHHWz4CwQQ6AF6BAgLEAM#v=onepage&q=Chandelas%20of%20Mahoba&f=false |title=Coins of Ancient India from the Earliest Times Down to the Seventh Century A.D. |date=1891 |publisher=Quaritch |language=en}}</ref> or '''Chandel Empire'''<ref>{{Cite book |last=Gangoly |first=Ordhendra Coomar |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=leBOAAAAYAAJ&q=Chandela+Empire&dq=Chandela+Empire&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiGkrORpsWCAxXkSWwGHVbZCo0Q6AF6BAgKEAM#Chandela%20Empire |title=The Art of the Chandelas |date=1957 |publisher=Rupa |language=en}}</ref>) were an Great Indian dynasty founded by a Haihayavanshi Chandel ruler Chandravarman II. They ruled many parts of [[India]] from their capital in the [[Jejakabhukti]] as a [[Chakravartin]] by subduing neighbour dynasties between the 8th to 15th centuries,<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=TKvEEAAAQBAJ&pg=PA321&dq=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2+%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%9C%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%B6+%E0%A4%95%E0%A5%80+%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A5%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%BE+%E0%A4%B9%E0%A5%88%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%80+%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%9C%E0%A4%BE+%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%A8+%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=2ahUKEwi5woqH9ceDAxWwklYBHUfNA58Q6AF6BAgGEAM#v=onepage&q=%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B2%20&f=false|title=Raja Bhoj Parmaron Ki Gorvanshiya Virasat|last=sakalle|first=Jairam Sitaram Pawar & Vinayak|date=2023-06-13|publisher=Blue Rose Publishers|language=hi}}</ref> and repulsed many [[Muslim]] invasions. Chandels are renowned notably known for their art, architecture and temples. They commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts. The last ruler was [[Kirttivarman II (Chandel dynasty)|Kirttivarman II]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Kusuman |first=K. K. |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=z4JqgSUSXDsC&pg=PA155&dq=The+last+chandella+ruler++was&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiNmYvch6iEAxVezzgGHZLFAYsQ6AF6BAgMEAM |title=A Panorama of Indian Culture: Professor A. Sreedhara Menon Felicitation Volume |date=1990 |publisher=Mittal Publications |isbn=978-81-7099-214-1 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=77bXjlFSBKMC&pg=PA52&dq=Chandelas+genealogy+records&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjJ_Zv4iaiEAxWxla8BHcwyCVEQ6AF6BAgIEAM#v=onepage&q=Kirat%20Singh&f=false |title=Archaeological Survey of India: Reports 1862-1884 |date=1885 |publisher=Governement Press |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=India |first=Archaeological Survey of |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=UMNQTl1EBAwC&pg=PA52&dq=Chandelas+genealogy+records&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjJ_Zv4iaiEAxWxla8BHcwyCVEQ6AF6BAgNEAM#v=onepage&q=Chandelas%20genealogy%20records&f=false |title=Reports |date=1885 |publisher=Office of the Superintendent of Government Printing |language=en}}</ref> They were the most prominent ruling family of the [[Chandel (Rajput clan)|Chandel]] [[Rajput]] clan.<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}}
*{{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"}}
*{{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"}}
*{{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}}
*{{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}}
*{{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> The last ruler was Kirttivarman II, who was killed against [[Islam Shah Suri]] on 27 may, 1545 CE..<ref>{{Cite book |last=Kusuman |first=K. K. |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=z4JqgSUSXDsC&pg=PA155&dq=The+last+chandella+ruler++was&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiNmYvch6iEAxVezzgGHZLFAYsQ6AF6BAgMEAM |title=A Panorama of Indian Culture: Professor A. Sreedhara Menon Felicitation Volume |date=1990 |publisher=Mittal Publications |isbn=978-81-7099-214-1 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=77bXjlFSBKMC&pg=PA52&dq=Chandelas+genealogy+records&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjJ_Zv4iaiEAxWxla8BHcwyCVEQ6AF6BAgIEAM#v=onepage&q=Kirat%20Singh&f=false |title=Archaeological Survey of India: Reports 1862-1884 |date=1885 |publisher=Governement Press |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=India |first=Archaeological Survey of |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=UMNQTl1EBAwC&pg=PA52&dq=Chandelas+genealogy+records&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjJ_Zv4iaiEAxWxla8BHcwyCVEQ6AF6BAgNEAM#v=onepage&q=Chandelas%20genealogy%20records&f=false |title=Reports |date=1885 |publisher=Office of the Superintendent of Government Printing |language=en}}</ref> The direct descendants of this family along with its younger branches did not give up even during their decline and defeated the Mughals under the leadership of Aurangzeb.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=UOIJAQAAMAAJ&q=could+not+subjugate+the+freedom+lover+Bundelas+and+Chandelas&dq=could+not+subjugate+the+freedom+lover+Bundelas+and+Chandelas&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjpsfrJuoaEAxWHXGwGHde0BM0Q6AF6BAgGEAM#Mughal%20Chandelas|title=Management in Government|date=2008|publisher=Department of Administrative Reforms, Ministry of Home Affairs|language=en}}</ref>
*{{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>
 


The Chandels regained independence under Chandravarman II (Nannuka-Varman) around 835 AD, re-establishing the Chandel dynasty of Mahoba (2nd term). Chandel Emperors like Vakpativarman, Rahilavarman, Yashovarman I, and Dhangavarman subdued the kings as far as Simhala (Sri Lanka) by doing Ashvamedha Yajna or Digvijayas. The Chandels achieved significant victories over various neighbour dynasties like Chakulyas of Gujrat Paramaras of Malwa, Kalachuris of Tripuri, Eastern Gangas and Somvanshi of Kalinga and Koshala etc., subjugating them to their Empire. Although some kingdoms occasionally rebelled and gained independence, the Chandels swiftly defeated and re-subjugated them. The Chalukyas of Gujrat and some southern Indian kingdoms used to pay homage to the Chandels.


The Chandels became again independent during Chandravarman II (Nannukavarman) around 835 AD, who again laid foundation of Chandel Kingdom. Emperor Vakpativarman and Rahilavarman conquered region till Simhala (Shri Lanka). The 9th-century Chandel ruler Yashovarman I, who assumed the title of Maharajadhiraja. The inscriptions describe his "Digvijaya" in which he defeated the many kingdoms including the king of Gurjara country i.e. Pratiharas, the Paramara king Siyaka of Malwa and the Rashtrakuta king. During Emperor Vakpativarman to [[Paramardivarman]], Chandels achieved success over [[Kalinga]], [[Paramara]]s, Kalachuris, [[Vanga]], [[Konkan]], Gahadvalas etc kingdoms and subjugated them. Although many times they would rebel and become independent, but within a few days the Chandels would defeat them and again subdue them. The Chaulukyas and some states of southern India paid tribute to the Chandel empire. The reason for the downfall was being engaged in war with the rebel occupied kings or feudatories from time to time due to which the army was not fully prepared during external aggressions. In 1203 BC, The Chandels were decimated by the suddenly Ghurid Invasion but were soon revived by Trailokyavarman, the son of Paramardivarman. Trailokyavarman also defeated Iltutmish and brought many kings of Central and North India back under Chandel rule, which lasted till 1545. In between, some kings refused to accept subordination, but in a few days they again became subject to the Chandels after defeating. Hammiravarman, son of Viravarman I, defeated Alauddin Khilji on the banks of the confluence of Yamuna-Betwa river in 1309 AD. The Chandels ruled central India until 1545 AD, repulsing many Muslim invasions. The last ruler was Kirttivarman II, who was killed in the battle against Islam Shah Suri.
In 1203 AD, the Ghurid invasion ended the unprepared Chandel dynasty in a treacherous war, in they and their emperor Paramardivarman displayed indomitable bravery and resistance, but was treacherously killed by Ghurids. However, in 1206 AD, Paramardi Varman's 9-year-old son Trailokya Varman revived the dynasty by defeating the Muslim governor of Kalanjara, and the iltutmish, Sultan of Delhi, thereby restoring the Chandels' power and prestige. He then went on to expand Chandel sovereignty over Central and East Indian kingdoms, ushering in a period of renewed dominance that lasted until 1545 AD. Occasionally, some kings refused to acknowledge Chandel supremacy but were swiftly subdued. Notably, Hammiravarman, son of Viravarman I, defeated Alauddin Khilji in 1309 AD on the banks of the Yamuna-Betwa river confluence. The Chandels continued to rule central India until 1545 AD, repelling numerous Muslim invasions. The last ruler, Kirttivarman II, was killed in battle against Islam Shah Suri, but in the previous battles he defeated Mughal emperor Humayun and killed Sher Khan Suri.


The Chandels were mainly [[Vaishnavas]], and the Shaivite Chandels were also supported [[Vaishnavism]] and didn't harmed Jains and Smarthas beliefs. The Chandels were staunch religious, they were anxious not to violate Dharma and sacred law in any way. In several Chandel inscriptions there are references to many Kings who were afraid to offend against the religious law. The Chandels often emphasized the positive duty of following the state through Dharma which was the duty of a Kshatriya ruler.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Banerjee |first=Anil Chandra |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=FV49AAAAMAAJ&q=Chandellas+dharma&dq=Chandellas+dharma&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi2pMDiw8WCAxWKamwGHccMB4E4ChDoAXoECAgQAw |title=Lectures on Rajput History |date=1962 |publisher=Firma K.L. Mukhopadhyay |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Banerjee |first=Anil Chandra |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=oaE9AAAAMAAJ&q=Chandellas+dharma&dq=Chandellas+dharma&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiszeinw8WCAxUhS2wGHdy0Dm8Q6AF6BAgMEAM |title=Aspects of Rajput State and Society |date=1983 |publisher=Rajesh Publications |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=gwcwAQAAIAAJ&q=Chandellas+dharma&dq=Chandellas+dharma&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiszeinw8WCAxUhS2wGHdy0Dm8Q6AF6BAgIEAM#Chandellas%20dharma |title=Encyclopaedia Indica: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh |date=1996 |publisher=Anmol Publications |isbn=978-81-7041-859-7 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Bakshi |first=S. R. |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=Ldo1QtQigosC&pg=PA345&dq=Chandellas+dharma&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiszeinw8WCAxUhS2wGHdy0Dm8Q6AF6BAgHEAM#v=onepage&q=Chandellas%20dharma&f=false |title=Early Aryans to Swaraj |last2=S.G |date=2005 |publisher=Sarup & Sons |isbn=978-81-7625-537-0 |language=en}}</ref> The Chandela rulers were very often guided and very supported by Brahmin ministers, big scholars and counsellors.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Mitra |first=Sisir Kumar |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA169&dq=Candella+rulers+were+very+often+guided+by+Brahmin+ministers+and+counsellors&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwju3peUx8WCAxUpTGwGHf5dAAYQ6AF6BAgOEAM#v=onepage&q=Candella%20rulers%20were%20very%20often%20guided%20by%20Brahmin%20ministers%20and%20counsellors&f=false |title=The Early Rulers of Khajur (Second Revised Edition) |date=1977 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass Publ. |isbn=978-81-208-1997-9 |language=en}}</ref>
The Chandels were mainly Shaivas, but they were liberal towards Vaishnavas and tolerant of Jains. The Chandels were staunchly religious; they were anxious not to violate dharma and sacred law in any way. In several Chandel inscriptions, there are references to many kings who were afraid to offend against the religious law. The Chandels often emphasized the positive duty of following the state through dharma, which was the duty of a Kshatriya ruler.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Banerjee |first=Anil Chandra |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=FV49AAAAMAAJ&q=Chandellas+dharma&dq=Chandellas+dharma&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi2pMDiw8WCAxWKamwGHccMB4E4ChDoAXoECAgQAw |title=Lectures on Rajput History |date=1962 |publisher=Firma K.L. Mukhopadhyay |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Banerjee |first=Anil Chandra |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=oaE9AAAAMAAJ&q=Chandellas+dharma&dq=Chandellas+dharma&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiszeinw8WCAxUhS2wGHdy0Dm8Q6AF6BAgMEAM |title=Aspects of Rajput State and Society |date=1983 |publisher=Rajesh Publications |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=gwcwAQAAIAAJ&q=Chandellas+dharma&dq=Chandellas+dharma&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiszeinw8WCAxUhS2wGHdy0Dm8Q6AF6BAgIEAM#Chandellas%20dharma |title=Encyclopaedia Indica: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh |date=1996 |publisher=Anmol Publications |isbn=978-81-7041-859-7 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Bakshi |first=S. R. |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=Ldo1QtQigosC&pg=PA345&dq=Chandellas+dharma&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiszeinw8WCAxUhS2wGHdy0Dm8Q6AF6BAgHEAM#v=onepage&q=Chandellas%20dharma&f=false |title=Early Aryans to Swaraj |last2=S.G |date=2005 |publisher=Sarup & Sons |isbn=978-81-7625-537-0 |language=en}}</ref> The Chandel rulers were very often guided and very supported by Brahmin ministers, big scholars and counsellors.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Mitra |first=Sisir Kumar |url=https://books.google.co.in/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA169&dq=Candella+rulers+were+very+often+guided+by+Brahmin+ministers+and+counsellors&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwju3peUx8WCAxUpTGwGHf5dAAYQ6AF6BAgOEAM#v=onepage&q=Candella%20rulers%20were%20very%20often%20guided%20by%20Brahmin%20ministers%20and%20counsellors&f=false |title=The Early Rulers of Khajur (Second Revised Edition) |date=1977 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass Publ. |isbn=978-81-208-1997-9 |language=en}}</ref>


==Origin==
==Origin==
Line 272: Line 275:
*[[Jayashakti|Jayashaktivarman]] (Jayaśakti) and [[Vijayashakti|Vijayashaktivarman]] (Vijayaśakti), c. 865-885 CE
*[[Jayashakti|Jayashaktivarman]] (Jayaśakti) and [[Vijayashakti|Vijayashaktivarman]] (Vijayaśakti), c. 865-885 CE
*[[Rahila|Rahilavarman]] (Rāhila), c. 885-905 CE
*[[Rahila|Rahilavarman]] (Rāhila), c. 885-905 CE
*[[Harsha (Chandela dynasty)|Shri Harshavarman]] (Śri Harśa),  c. 905-925 CE
*[[Harshavarman (Chandel emperor)|Shri Harshavarman]] (Śri Harśa),  c. 905-925 CE
*[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] (Yaśovarman), c. 925-950 CE
*[[Yashovarman (Chandela dynasty)|Yashovarman]] (Yaśovarman), c. 925-950 CE
*[[Dhanga|Dhangavarman]] (Dhaṅgavarman), c. 950-999 CE<!-- Sullerey is based on latest inscription discoveries -->
*[[Dhangavarman (Chandel emperor)|Dhangavarman]] (Dhaṅgavarman), c. 950-999 CE<!-- Sullerey is based on latest inscription discoveries -->
*[[Ganda (Chandela dynasty)|Gandavarmam]] (Gaṇḍavarman), c. 999-1002 CE<!-- Sullerey is based on latest inscription discoveries -->
*[[Gandavarman (Chandel emperor)|Gandavarmam]] (Gaṇḍavarman), c. 999-1002 CE<!-- Sullerey is based on latest inscription discoveries -->
*[[Vidyadhara (Chandela king)|Vidyadharavarman]] (Vidyādharavarman), c. 1003-1035 CE<!-- Sullerey is based on latest inscription discoveries -->
*[[Vidyadhara (Chandela king)|Vidyadharavarman]] (Vidyādharavarman), c. 1003-1035 CE<!-- Sullerey is based on latest inscription discoveries -->
*[[Vijayapala|Vijayapalavarman]] (Vijayapāla), c. 1035-1050 CE
*[[Vijayapala|Vijayapalavarman]] (Vijayapāla), c. 1035-1050 CE

Latest revision as of 21:48, 10 August 2024

Chandelas of Jejakabhukti

Chandel dynasty of Jejakabhukti
832 CE–1545 CE
Coinage of Sallakshanavarman (1120–1135 CE), Chandelas of Jejakabhukti of Chandel Empire
Coinage of Sallakshanavarman (1120–1135 CE), Chandelas of Jejakabhukti
Chandel dynasty map during 1203 AD[1][2]
Capital
Common languagesSanskrit
Religion
Mainly
Pashupata Shaivism
Some
Vaishnavism
GovernmentMonarchy
Emperor (Kalanjaradhipati) 
• 832-845 CE
Chandravarman II (First sovereign ruler)
• 1165-1203 CE
Paramardivarman I (Last emperor)
• 1487-1545 CE
Kirttivarman II (Last ruler)
Historical eraMedieval India
• Established
832 CE
• Rise of Empire
9th CE
• Fall of Empire
1203 CE
• Disestablished
1545 CE
CurrencyHanumana[3]
Goddess Laxmi[4]
Preceded by		 Succeeded by
Kalachuris of Tripuri
Ghurid dynasty
Mamluk dynasty
Suri Empire
Today part ofIndia

The Chandelas of Jejakabhukti (Devanagri: जेजाकभुक्ति के चन्देल, colloquially known as the Chandel of Mahoba[5][6] or Chandel Empire[7]) were an Great Indian dynasty founded by a Haihayavanshi Chandel ruler Chandravarman II. They ruled many parts of India from their capital in the Jejakabhukti as a Chakravartin by subduing neighbour dynasties between the 8th to 15th centuries,[8] and repulsed many Muslim invasions. Chandels are renowned notably known for their art, architecture and temples. They commissioned a number of temples, water bodies, palaces and forts. The last ruler was Kirttivarman II.[9][10][11] They were the most prominent ruling family of the Chandel Rajput clan.[12]


The Chandels regained independence under Chandravarman II (Nannuka-Varman) around 835 AD, re-establishing the Chandel dynasty of Mahoba (2nd term). Chandel Emperors like Vakpativarman, Rahilavarman, Yashovarman I, and Dhangavarman subdued the kings as far as Simhala (Sri Lanka) by doing Ashvamedha Yajna or Digvijayas. The Chandels achieved significant victories over various neighbour dynasties like Chakulyas of Gujrat Paramaras of Malwa, Kalachuris of Tripuri, Eastern Gangas and Somvanshi of Kalinga and Koshala etc., subjugating them to their Empire. Although some kingdoms occasionally rebelled and gained independence, the Chandels swiftly defeated and re-subjugated them. The Chalukyas of Gujrat and some southern Indian kingdoms used to pay homage to the Chandels.

In 1203 AD, the Ghurid invasion ended the unprepared Chandel dynasty in a treacherous war, in they and their emperor Paramardivarman displayed indomitable bravery and resistance, but was treacherously killed by Ghurids. However, in 1206 AD, Paramardi Varman's 9-year-old son Trailokya Varman revived the dynasty by defeating the Muslim governor of Kalanjara, and the iltutmish, Sultan of Delhi, thereby restoring the Chandels' power and prestige. He then went on to expand Chandel sovereignty over Central and East Indian kingdoms, ushering in a period of renewed dominance that lasted until 1545 AD. Occasionally, some kings refused to acknowledge Chandel supremacy but were swiftly subdued. Notably, Hammiravarman, son of Viravarman I, defeated Alauddin Khilji in 1309 AD on the banks of the Yamuna-Betwa river confluence. The Chandels continued to rule central India until 1545 AD, repelling numerous Muslim invasions. The last ruler, Kirttivarman II, was killed in battle against Islam Shah Suri, but in the previous battles he defeated Mughal emperor Humayun and killed Sher Khan Suri.

The Chandels were mainly Shaivas, but they were liberal towards Vaishnavas and tolerant of Jains. The Chandels were staunchly religious; they were anxious not to violate dharma and sacred law in any way. In several Chandel inscriptions, there are references to many kings who were afraid to offend against the religious law. The Chandels often emphasized the positive duty of following the state through dharma, which was the duty of a Kshatriya ruler.[13][14][15][16] The Chandel rulers were very often guided and very supported by Brahmin ministers, big scholars and counsellors.[17]

Origin[edit]

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).[18] 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.[19] The 1195 CE Baghari inscription and the 1260 CE Ajaygadh inscription contain similar accounts.[20] 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).[18]

Loving couple, Khajuraho.

The Mahoba-Khanda legend of the dynasty's origin goes like this: Hemaraja, a priest of the Gaharwar king of 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.[21][18] 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.[19] Prithviraj Raso is also considered an historically unreliable text.[22][23][24]

Celestial dancer (Devata) mid-11th century, Chandela period, Madhya Pradesh. Metropolitan Museum of Art.

British indologist V. A. Smith theorized that the Chandelas were of either Bhar or Gond origin. Some other scholars including R. C. Majumdar also supported this theory.[25] The Chandelas worshipped Maniya, a tribal goddess, whose temples are located at Mahoba and Maniyagadh.[26] 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 Garha-Mandla.[27] Historian R. K. Dikshit does not find these arguments convincing: he argues that Maniya was not a tribal deity.[28] 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.[27] Finally, Durgavati's marriage to a Gond chief can be dismissed as a one-off case.[28]

History[edit]

Early rulers[edit]

The early Chandelas were originally vassals of the Gurjara-Pratiharas.[29] Nannuka (r. c. 831-845 CE), the founder of the dynasty, was the ruler of a small kingdom centered around Khajuraho.[30]

Chandel dynasty before 1028

According to the Chandela inscriptions, Nannuka's successor Vakpati defeated several enemies.[31] Vakpati's sons Jayashakti (Jeja) and Vijayashakti (Vija) consolidated the Chandela power.[32] According to a Mahoba inscription, the Chandela territory was named "Jejakabhukti" after the Jayashakti.[33] Vijayashakti's successor Rahila is credited with several military victories in eulogistic inscriptions.[34] Rahila's son Harsha played an important role in restoring the rule of the Pratihara king Mahipala, possibly after a Rashtrakuta invasion or after Mahiapala's conflict with his step-brother Bhoja II.[35]

Rise as a sovereign power[edit]

A 20th century artist's imagination of Kirtivarman Chandela visiting a Khajuraho temple

Harsha's son Yashovarman (r. c. 925-950 CE) continued to acknowledge the Pratihara suzerainty, but became practically independent.[36] He conquered the important fortress of Kalanjara.[37] A 953-954 CE Khajuraho inscription credits him with several other military successes, including against Gaudas (identified with the Palas), the Khasas, the Chedis (the Kalachuris of Tripuri), the Kosalas (possibly the Somavamshis), the Mithila (possibly a small tributary ruler), Malavas (identified with the Paramaras), the Kurus, the Kashmiris and the Gurjaras.[38] 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.[39] Yashovarman's reign marked the beginning of the famous Chandela-era art and architecture. He commissioned the Lakshmana Temple at Khajuraho.[37]

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.[40] A Khajuraho inscription claims that the rulers of Kosala, Kratha (part of Vidarbha region), Kuntala, and Simhala listened humbly to the commands of Dhanga's officers. It also claims that the wives of the kings of Andhra, Anga, Kanchi and 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.[41][42] Like his predecessor, Dhanga also commissioned a magnificent temple at Khajuraho, which is identified as the Vishvanatha Temple.[43]

Dhanga's successor Ganda appears to have retained the territory he inherited.[44] His son Vidyadhara killed the Pratihara king of Kannauj (possibly Rajyapala) for fleeing his capital instead of fighting the Ghaznavid invader Mahmud of Ghazni.[45][46] Mahmud later invaded Vidyadhara's kingdom; according to the Muslim invaders, this conflict ended with Vidyadhara paying tribute to Mahmud.[47] Vidyadhara is noted for having commissioned the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple.[48]

The Chandela art and architecture reached its zenith during this period. The Lakshmana Temple (c. 930–950 CE), the 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-style temples are representative of the most fully developed style at Khajuraho.[49]

Decline[edit]

Surasundari and vyala, Khajuraho.
Kandariya Mahadeva temple carvings.

By the end of Vidyadhara's reign, the Ghaznavid invasions had weakened the Chandela kingdom. Taking advantage of this, the Kalachuri king Gangeya-deva conquered eastern parts of the kingdom.[50] Chandela inscriptions suggest that Vidyadhara's successor Vijayapala (r. c. 1035-1050 CE) defeated Gangeya in a battle.[51] However, the Chandela power started declining during the Vijayapala's reign.[52] The Kachchhapaghatas of Gwalior probably gave up their allegiance to the Chandelas during this period.[53]

Vijayapala's elder son Devavavarman was subjugated by Gangeya's son Lakshmi-Karna.[54] His younger brother Kirttivarman resurrected the Chandela power by defeating Lakshmi-Karna.[55] Kirtivarman's son Sallakshanavarman achieved military successes against the Paramaras and the Kalachuris, possibly by raiding their territories. A Mau inscription suggests that he also conducted successful campaigns in the Antarvedi region (the Ganga-Yamuna doab).[56] His son Jayavarman was of religious temperament and abdicated the throne after being tired of governance.[57]

Jayavarman appears to have died heirless, as he was succeeded by his uncle Prithvivarman, the younger son of Kirttivarman.[58] 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.[59]

Revival[edit]

By the time Prithvivarman's son Madanavarman (r. c. 1128–1165 CE) ascended the throne, the neighbouring Kalachuri and Paramara kingdoms had been weakened by enemy invasions. Taking advantage of this situation, Madanavarman defeated the Kalachuri king Gaya-Karna, and subjected him.[60] However, the Chandel's governor lost this territory to Gaya-Karna's successor Narasimha.[61] Madanavarman also captured the territory on the western periphery of the Paramara kingdom, around Bhilsa (Vidisha) and later subjected whole paramara kingdom. This probably happened during the reign of the Paramara king Yashovarman or his son Jayavarman.[62][63]

Jayasimha Siddharaja, the Chaulukya king of Gujarat, also invaded the Paramara territory, which was located between the Chandel and the Chaulukya kingdoms. This brought him in conflict with Madanavarman.[64] A Kalanjara inscription suggests that Madanavarman defeated Jayasimha. The self pro-claimed various chronicles of Chaulukyas claimed that Jayasimha either defeated Madanavarman or extracted a tribute from him.[65] Madanavarman defeated a Gahadavala ruler Govindchandra, in which Govindchandra fled from his capital to save his life. Later on the request of Govindchandra, Madanavarman returned his kingdom to him and both became friendly state.[66]

Madanavarman's son Yashovarman II ruled for a very short time and died in a war. Aftter Yashovarman II, his son Paramardivarman deva become chandel emperor.[67]

Final decline[edit]

Paramardivarman Deva (reigned c. 1165-1203 CE) ascended the Chandel throne at the age of 5. QllIn 1182 CE, Paramardivarman defeated Chauhan king Prithviraj III in battle and repulsed his raid.[68][69][70]. But to avoid the humiliation of their king, the 16th c Chauhans claimed in ballads, that the Chandels were defeated and Parmardivarman committed suicide around 1185-86 A.D.

This is corroborated by his stone inscriptions at Madanpur[70] However, the occupation of Mahoba or Kalanjara by Chauhans is not supported by historical evidence. Not even by madanpur inscription of Prithviraj Chauhan, that was mere a small raid which was successfully repulsed by Paramardivarman Deva.[71] He is known to have issued several inscriptions after this event: the Kalanjara rock inscription, the 1184 CE Mahoba stone inscription, the 1187 CE Ajaygarh stone inscription, the 1195 CE Baghari (Bateshvar) stone inscription, and the 1201 CE Kalanjara stone inscription.[72] These records give imperial titles for Paramardivarman, indicating that he remained a sovereign Emperor.[73] The Muslim chronicles also provide evidence that Paramardivarman ruled the empire until the beginning of the next century, when the Delhi Sultanate invaded the Chandel empire.[71]. He is known to have issued several inscriptions after this event: the Kalanjara rock inscription, the 1184 CE Mahoba stone inscription, the 1187 CE Ajaygarh stone inscription, the 1195 CE Baghari (Bateshvar) stone inscription, and the 1201 CE Kalanjara stone inscription.[72] These records give imperial titles for Paramardivarman, indicating that he remained a sovereign ruler.[73] The Muslim chronicles also provide evidence that Paramardivarman ruled until the beginning of the next century, when the Delhi Sultanate invaded the Chandel kingdom.[71]

The 1195 CE Bateshvar inscription states that other feudatory kings bowed before him, and the 1201 CE Kalanjara inscription describes him as the lord of Dasharna country.

The Chandel power did not fully recover from their defeat against the Delhi forces. Paramardivarman was succeeded by Trailokyavarman, Viravarman and Bhojavarman. Hammiravarman defeated Allauddin khalji.

Hammiravarman was succeeded by Viravarman II, whose titles do not indicate a high political status.[74][75] Durgavati was married to Dalpat Shah, the adopted son of the king Sangram Shah of the Garha Kingdom. According to Abul Fazl, Dalpat Shah was the son of a Kachhwaha Rajput adopted by Raja of Gadha mandla.[76][77] The Chandel of mahoba and Garha Kingdom dynasty (Garha Mandla) dynasties were allied because of this marriage.[78] [79] [78] Some other ruling families also claimed Chandela descent (see Chandel).

Art and architecture[edit]

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).[80]

Other smaller Chandela sites include Chandpur, Deogarh, Dudahi, Kakadeo and Madanpur.[80]

List of rulers[edit]

Chandela territory, as indicated by the find spots of inscriptions issued during the Chandela reign[81]

Based on epigraphic records, the historians have come up with the following list of Chandela rulers of Jejākabhukti (IAST names in brackets):[82][83]

References[edit]

Outline of South Asian history
South Asia (orthographic projection)
Palaeolithic (2,500,000–250,000 BC)
Madrasian Culture
Soanian Culture
Neolithic (10,800–3300 BC)
Bhirrana Culture (7570–6200 BC)
Mehrgarh Culture (7000–3300 BC)
Edakkal Culture (5000–3000 BC)
Chalcolithic (3500–1500 BC)
Anarta tradition (c. 3950–1900 BC)
Ahar-Banas Culture (3000–1500 BC)
Pandu Culture (1600–1500 BC)
Malwa Culture (1600–1300 BC)
Jorwe Culture (1400–700 BC)
Bronze Age (3300–1300 BC)
Indus Valley Civilisation(3300–1300 BC)
 – Early Harappan Culture(3300–2600 BC)
 – Mature Harappan Culture(2600–1900 BC)
 – Late Harappan Culture(1900–1300 BC)
Vedic Civilisation(2000–500 BC)
 – Ochre Coloured Pottery culture(2000–1600 BC)
 – Swat culture(1600–500 BC)
Iron Age (1500–200 BC)
Vedic Civilisation(1500–500 BC)
 – Janapadas (1500–600 BC)
 – Black and Red ware culture(1300–1000 BC)
 – Painted Grey Ware culture (1200–600 BC)
 – Northern Black Polished Ware (700–200 BC)
Pradyota Dynasty (799–684 BC)
Haryanka Dynasty (684–424 BC)
Three Crowned Kingdoms (c. 600 BC – AD 1600)
Maha Janapadas (c. 600–300 BC)
Achaemenid Empire (550–330 BC)
Ror Dynasty (450 BC – AD 489)
Shaishunaga Dynasty (424–345 BC)
Nanda Empire (380–321 BC)
Macedonian Empire (330–323 BC)
Maurya Empire (321–184 BC)
Seleucid India (312–303 BC)
Pandya Empire (c. 300 BC – AD 1345)
Chera Kingdom (c. 300 BC – AD 1102)
Chola Empire (c. 300 BC – AD 1279)
Pallava Empire (c. 250 AD – AD 800)
Maha-Megha-Vahana Empire (c. 250 BC – c. AD 500)
Parthian Empire (247 BC – AD 224)
Middle Kingdoms (230 BC – AD 1206)
Satavahana Empire (230 BC – AD 220)
Kuninda Kingdom (200 BC – AD 300)
Mitra Dynasty (c. 150 – c. 50 BC)
Shunga Empire (185–73 BC)
Indo-Greek Kingdom (180 BC – AD 10)
Kanva Empire (75–26 BC)
Indo-Scythian Kingdom (50 BC – AD 400)
Indo-Parthian Kingdom (AD 21 – c. 130)
Western Satrap Empire (AD 35–405 )
Kushan Empire (AD 60–240)
Bharshiva Dynasty (170–350)
Nagas of Padmavati (210–340)
Sasanian Empire (224–651)
Indo-Sassanid Kingdom (230–360)
Vakataka Empire (c. 250 – c. 500)
Kalabhras Empire (c. 250 – c. 600)
Gupta Empire (280–550)
Kadamba Empire (345–525)
Western Ganga Kingdom (350–1000)
Kamarupa Kingdom (350–1100)
Vishnukundina Empire (420–624)
Maitraka Empire (475–767)
Huna Kingdom (475–576)
Rai Kingdom (489–632)
Kabul Shahi Empire (c. 500 – 1026)
Chalukya Empire (543–753)
Maukhari Empire (c. 550 – c. 700)
Harsha Empire (606–647)
Tibetan Empire (618–841)
Eastern Chalukya Kingdom (624–1075)
Rashidun Caliphate (632–661)
Gurjara-Pratihara Empire (650–1036)
Umayyad Caliphate (661–750)
Mallabhum Kingdom (694-1947)
Bhauma-Kara Kingdom (736-916)
Pala Empire (750–1174)
Rashtrakuta Empire (753–982)
Paramara Kingdom (800–1327)
Yadava Empire (850–1334)
Somavamshi Kingdom (882–1110)
Chaulukya Kingdom (942–1244)
Western Chalukya Empire (973–1189)
Lohara Kingdom (1003–1320)
Hoysala Empire (1040–1347)
Sena Empire (1070–1230)
Eastern Ganga Empire (1078–1434)
Kakatiya Kingdom (1083–1323)
Zamorin Kingdom (1102–1766)
Kalachuris of Tripuri (675-1210)
Kalachuris of Kalyani (1156–1184)
Chutiya Kingdom (1187–1673)
Deva Kingdom (c. 1200 – c. 1300)
Late medieval period (1206–1526)
Ghaznavid Dynasty (977–1186)
Ghurid Dynasty (1170–1206)
Delhi Sultanate (1206–1526)
 – Mamluk Sultanate (1206–1290)
 – Khalji Sultanate (1290–1320)
 – Tughlaq Sultanate (1320–1414)
 – Sayyid Sultanate (1414–1451)
 – Lodi Sultanate (1451–1526)
Ahom Kingdom (1228–1826)
Chitradurga Kingdom (1300–1779)
Reddy Kingdom (1325–1448)
Vijayanagara Empire (1336–1646)
Bengal Sultanate (1352–1576)
Garhwal Kingdom (1358–1803)
Mysore Kingdom (1399–1947)
Gajapati Empire (1434–1541)
Ladakh Kingdom (1470–1842)
Deccan Sultanates (1490–1596)
 – Ahmadnagar Sultanate (1490–1636)
 – Berar Sultanate (1490–1574)
 – Bidar Sultanate (1492–1619)
 – Bijapur Sultanate (1492–1686)
 – Golkonda Sultanate (1518–1687)
Keladi Kingdom (1499–1763)
Koch Kingdom (1515–1947)
Early modern period (1526–1858)
Mughal Empire (1526–1858)
Sur Empire (1540–1556)
Madurai Kingdom (1529–1736)
Thanjavur Kingdom (1532–1673)
Bhoi dynasty (1541–1804)
Bengal Subah (1576–1757)
Marava Kingdom (1600–1750)
Sikkim Kingdom (1642–1975)
Thondaiman Kingdom (1650–1948)
Maratha Empire (1674–1818)
Sikh Confederacy (1707–1799)
Travancore Kingdom (1729–1947)
Sikh Empire (1799–1849)
Colonial states (1510–1961)
Portuguese India (1510–1961)
Dutch India (1605–1825)
Danish India (1620–1869)
French India (1759–1954)
Company Raj (1757–1858)
British Raj (1858–1947)
Periods of Sri Lanka
Prehistory (Until 543 BC)
Early kingdoms period (543 BC – 377 BC)
Anuradhapura period (377 BC – AD 1017)
Polonnaruwa period (1056–1232)
Transitional period (1232–1505)
Crisis of the Sixteenth Century (1505–1594)
Kandyan period (1594–1815)
British Ceylon (1815–1948)
Contemporary Sri Lanka (1948–present)
National histories
Regional histories
Specialised histories
  1. ↑ Singh 1984, p. 69.
  2. ↑ Gvāliyara darśana - Volume 1 -, 1980 & sfn.
  3. ↑ Roy, Prafulla Chandra (1980). The Coinage of Northern India: The Early Rajaputa Dynasties from the 11th to the 13th Centuries A.D. Abhinav Publications. ISBN 978-81-7017-122-5.
  4. ↑ Husaini (Saiyid.), Abdul Qadir (1962). The Economic History of India. Eastern Publishers.
  5. ↑ Raychaudhuri, Tapan; Habib, Irfan; Kumar, Dharma (1982). The Cambridge Economic History of India: Volume 1, C.1200-c.1750. CUP Archive. ISBN 978-0-521-22692-9.
  6. ↑ Cunningham, Sir Alexander (1891). Coins of Ancient India from the Earliest Times Down to the Seventh Century A.D. Quaritch.
  7. ↑ Gangoly, Ordhendra Coomar (1957). The Art of the Chandelas. Rupa.
  8. ↑ sakalle, Jairam Sitaram Pawar & Vinayak (13 June 2023). Raja Bhoj Parmaron Ki Gorvanshiya Virasat (in हिन्दी). Blue Rose Publishers.
  9. ↑ Kusuman, K. K. (1990). A Panorama of Indian Culture: Professor A. Sreedhara Menon Felicitation Volume. Mittal Publications. ISBN 978-81-7099-214-1.
  10. ↑ Archaeological Survey of India: Reports 1862-1884. Governement Press. 1885.
  11. ↑ India, Archaeological Survey of (1885). Reports. Office of the Superintendent of Government Printing.
  12. ↑ *Upinder Singh (2004). The Discovery of Ancient India: Early Archaeologists and the Beginnings of Archaeology. Permanent Black. p. 73. ISBN 978-81-7824-088-6. 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
    • Kulke, Hermann; Rothermund, Dietmar (2004). A History of India. Psychology Press. p. 117. ISBN 978-0-415-32919-4. 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
    • Romila Thapar (2004). Early India: From the Origins to AD 1300. University of California Press. p. 420. ISBN 978-0-520-24225-8. 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
    • 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"
  13. ↑ Banerjee, Anil Chandra (1962). Lectures on Rajput History. Firma K.L. Mukhopadhyay.
  14. ↑ Banerjee, Anil Chandra (1983). Aspects of Rajput State and Society. Rajesh Publications.
  15. ↑ Encyclopaedia Indica: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh. Anmol Publications. 1996. ISBN 978-81-7041-859-7.
  16. ↑ Bakshi, S. R.; S.G (2005). Early Aryans to Swaraj. Sarup & Sons. ISBN 978-81-7625-537-0.
  17. ↑ Mitra, Sisir Kumar (1977). The Early Rulers of Khajur (Second Revised Edition). Motilal Banarsidass Publ. ISBN 978-81-208-1997-9.
  18. ↑ 18.0 18.1 18.2 R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 3.
  19. ↑ 19.0 19.1 R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 4.
  20. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 5.
  21. ↑ Jai Narayan Asopa (1976). Origin of the Rajputs. Bharatiya Publishing House. p. 208.
  22. ↑ Vijayendra Snatak (1997). "Medieval Hindi Literature". In K Ayyappap Panikkar (ed.). Medieval Indian literature: an anthology (Volume 1). Sahitya Akademi. p. 142. ISBN 978-81-260-0365-5. Retrieved 28 September 2011.
  23. ↑ Freitag, Jason (2009). Serving empire, serving nation: James Tod and the Rajputs of Rajasthan. BRILL. pp. 3–5. ISBN 978-90-04-17594-5.
  24. ↑ R. V. Somani (1976). History of Mewar, from Earliest Times to 1751 A.D. Mateshwari. p. 30. OCLC 2929852.
  25. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 6.
  26. ↑ Ali Javid and Tabassum Javeed (2008). World Heritage Monuments and Related Edifices in India. Vol. 1. Algora. p. 44. ISBN 9780875864822.
  27. ↑ 27.0 27.1 R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 7.
  28. ↑ 28.0 28.1 R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 8.
  29. ↑ Radhey Shyam Chaurasia, History of Ancient India: Earliest Times to 1000 A. D.
  30. ↑ Sailendra Sen (2013). A Textbook of Medieval Indian History. Primus. p. 22. ISBN 978-93-80607-34-4.
  31. ↑ Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, pp. 27-28.
  32. ↑ Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, p. 30.
  33. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 28.
  34. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, pp. 30-31.
  35. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, pp. 32-35.
  36. ↑ Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, pp. 36-37.
  37. ↑ 37.0 37.1 Sushil Kumar Sullerey 2004, p. 24.
  38. ↑ Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, p. 42-51.
  39. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 42.
  40. ↑ Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, p. 57.
  41. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 56.
  42. ↑ Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, pp. 61-65.
  43. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 69.
  44. ↑ Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, pp. 72.
  45. ↑ Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, pp. 72-73.
  46. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 72.
  47. ↑ Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, pp. 81-82.
  48. ↑ Sushil Kumar Sullerey 2004, p. 26.
  49. ↑ James C. Harle (1994). The Art and Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent. Yale University Press. p. 234. ISBN 0300062176.
  50. ↑ Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, pp. 89-90.
  51. ↑ Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, p. 88.
  52. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 101.
  53. ↑ Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, p. 90.
  54. ↑ Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, p. 91.
  55. ↑ Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, p. 94.
  56. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 120-121.
  57. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 126.
  58. ↑ Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, pp. 110-111.
  59. ↑ Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, p. 111.
  60. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 132.
  61. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 135.
  62. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, pp. 130-132.
  63. ↑ Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, p. 112-113.
  64. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 133.
  65. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, pp. 133-134.
  66. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 132-133.
  67. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 130.
  68. ↑ Mohinder Singh Randhawa & Indian Council of Agricultural Research 1980, pp. 472.
  69. ↑ M.S. Randhawa & Indian Sculpture: The Scene, Themes, and Legends 1985, pp. 532.
  70. ↑ 70.0 70.1 Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, p. 123.
  71. ↑ 71.0 71.1 71.2 Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, p. 125.
  72. ↑ 72.0 72.1 Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, p. 124.
  73. ↑ 73.0 73.1 Sisirkumar Mitra 1977, p. 126.
  74. ↑ 74.0 74.1 Peter Jackson 2003, p. 199.
  75. ↑ Om Prakash Misra 2003, p. 11.
  76. ↑ Dikshit, R. K. (1976). The Candellas of Jejākabhukti. Abhinav Publications. p. 8. ISBN 978-81-7017-046-4.
  77. ↑ Abul Fazl, Henry Beveridge (1907). Akbarnama Vol-2. p. 326.
  78. ↑ 78.0 78.1 Archana Garodia Gupta (20 April 2019). The Women Who Ruled India- Leaders. Warriors. Icons (Ebook). Hachette India. ISBN 9789351951537.
  79. ↑ Romila Thapar 2013, p. 572.
  80. ↑ 80.0 80.1 Sushil Kumar Sullerey 2004, p. 17.
  81. ↑ Harihar Vitthal Trivedi 1991, pp. 335-552.
  82. ↑ R. K. Dikshit 1976, p. 25.
  83. ↑ Sushil Kumar Sullerey 2004, p. 25.

Bibliography[edit]

External links[edit]

Retrieved from "https://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chandelas_of_Jejakabhukti_(Chandel_Empire)&oldid=447510"