Teli ka Mandir, Madhya Pradesh, IN

Deities: Lord Vishnu
Location: In the complex of Gwalior Fort, Gwalior
Built in: 11th century
Also known as: Oil man’s temple
Significance: An Ancient Temple
Highlights: Fusion of Southern and Northern architectural styles of India
Best time to visit: July to March

The tallest structure in the fort, the 100 ft high Teli-ka-Mandir (oil man's temple) dates back to the 9th century, and is the most impressive of all the temples in the Gwalior fort. Constructed by the Pratihar Rajas, this Vishnu temple is an amalgamation of the Dravidian (from South India) and the Indo-Aryan (North Indian) architectural styles.

The roof is typically Dravidian but the sculptures and embellishing inside are Indo Aryan in nature. The10m high doorway has a Garuda statue on top. Although many opine that it is closer in design to the temples of Orissa than the South, there are several theories as to how the shrine acquired its name.

Although commanding in appearance, this temple consists only of the sanctuary with a porch and doorway leading into the inner chamber. There is no mandapa and no pillared hall which is so characteristic of the fully developed temple in this part of the country. This structure is a rare specimen of a Brahmanical sanctuary, for, the shape of its roof bears testimony to its Buddhist heritage. Instead of a spire it has a ridge of the type found on the vaulted roof of a Buddhist chaitya-hall.

The origin of the primordial shrine dates as far back as 8th or 9th century AD when Adivaraha Mihir Bhoj of Kannauj ruled over the dominions of Central India. The extraordinary temple is ensconced within the premises of the spectacular Gwalior Fort. The temple's architecture, design and layout are rather interesting and depict the consummate skill and expertise of the ancient craftsmen and architects. The temple represents a roundish barrel or a shikhar and presents a stunning sight. There are several surmises and conjectures regarding the construction of the venerable shrine.

The porch and the doorway are imprinted with elaborate carvings. One can trace figures of amorous couples, coiled serpents, gods and goddesses on the doorway. The central position on the doorway is dominated by the figure of flying Garuda. The weird and wonderful arrangement of two architectural styles attracts countless visitors throughout the year. Teli Ka Mandir boasts about the heritage and rich of India.

Also dedicated to Vishnu is the graceful little Sas-Bahu-ka-Mandir, built in 11th century. Another landmark is the historic Gurudwara Data Bandhi Chhod built in the memory of Guru Hargobind Sahib, the 6th Sikh Guru who was imprisoned here by Jehangir for over two years. At the time of his release, he wanted 52 Hindu kings who were his fellow prisoners, released with him. Jehangir was very impressed with the Guru and agreed to his condition. And, finally, within the Fort complex, housed in the erstwhile barracks of the British soldiers, is Gwalior's unique gift to modern India Scindia School. Acknowledged as one of the finest schools in India, it is only fitting that the country's young citizens receive the best educational grounding surrounded by monuments to a past which is a constant inspiration.

Some believe it was so named because it was built in the Telengana style; others say this was because it was built by telis (oil merchants). A more recent study ascribes it to Telap Raj, a prime minister of the region. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, a garuda (mythical bird) can be seen on top of the 10-metre-high doorway.

Other Attractions:
Gwalior Fort, Man Mandir, The Sas-Bahu temples, The Chhatris, Tomb of Mohammad Ghaus, Jai Vilas Palace, Surya Mandir (the replica of the Puri Sun Temple).

How to reach:
by Air: India Airlines flights connect Gwalior with Delhi, Bhopal, Indore and Mumbai thrice a week.
by Rail: Gwalior is on the Central Railway's main Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Chennai lines.
by Road: Gwalior is connected by regular bus service with Agra, Mathura, Jaipur, Delhi. One can easily reach Teli Ka Mandir by taking local Buses, Autos or by hiring Taxis from Gwalior.

Visit www.eTirth.com for more information on Temples, Ashrams, Gurus, Festival and Daily Panchangam (Hindu ephemeris).

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