Kadwaya(Isagarh)

Village Kadwaya

Situated in the Ashoknagar district of Madhya Pradesh, the village of Kadwaya holds a distinct identity as a significant historical, religious, and tourist destination. This village is located approximately 50 kilometers from the Ashoknagar district headquarters and about 15 kilometers to the north of the Isagarh Tehsil headquarters.

In ancient times, Kadwaya was known by various names such as “Kadamguha,” “Kadavahi,” and “Kadavaha”—names that reflect its rich historical and cultural evolution.

This site is particularly renowned for its cluster of ancient temples. Currently, the site features a *Garhi* (fortified structure), a *Baoli* (stepwell), a *Math* (monastery associated with the Mayur sect of Shaivism), and 15 ancient temples, believed to have been constructed between the 9th and 12th centuries. These temples captivate visitors with their exquisite architecture, intricate carvings, and unique sculptural artistry. The entire temple complex has been notified as a protected monument by the Central Department of Archaeology (Archaeological Survey of India), thereby validating its historical significance.

From a religious perspective, the Bijasan Devi Temple located in Kadwaya is extremely famous throughout the region. According to local belief, applying the sacred *Charanamrit* (holy water) of the Goddess to the eyes provides relief from eye-related ailments. A fair is organized here on every *Chaturdashi* (the fourteenth day of the lunar fortnight), drawing thousands of devotees who arrive to offer their prayers.

Kadwaya is also known for its traditional crafts. Locally, stone-crafted items such as *Shil-batta* (grinding stones) and *Pata-ludhiya* (grinding slabs and rollers) are particularly renowned.

The village of Kadwaya is easily accessible by road from major towns such as Ashoknagar, Shivpuri, and Chanderi. The nearest railway station is Ashoknagar, situated approximately 50 kilometers away.

For the convenience of tourists, a Rest House operated by the Public Works Department (PWD) is available at the Isagarh Tehsil headquarters, where suitable accommodation arrangements can be made. Offering a unique confluence of natural beauty, historical heritage, and ancient architecture, the village of Kadwaya serves as a captivating and unforgettable destination for history enthusiasts, researchers, and tourists alike.

1. Chaandla Mandir

The Chandla Temple is a prominent ancient shrine situated in the village of Kadwaya, located to the west of the village on the route leading to Sakarra. Primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is regarded as one of the earliest structures within the temple complex of Kadwaya.

Bearing stylistic similarities to the Dravidian architectural tradition, this east-facing temple is constructed upon a *Jadyakumbha* plinth that rises directly from the ground. Its most distinctive feature is a relatively low-rising pyramidal spire (*Shikhara*), the apex of which assumes a bell-like form—a design element that further accentuates its unique architectural character.

The temple’s layout features a well-organized configuration comprising a *Garbhagriha* (sanctum sanctorum) and a columned *Mandapa* (hall). The spire is adorned on all sides with *Chaitya* motifs, reflecting the temple’s artistic elegance.

Within the *Jangha* (wall section) of the temple, images of Surya, Chamunda, and Ganesha are enshrined in *Devakulikas* (miniature shrines) positioned on the three cardinal directions. Furthermore, a seated image of Lord Shiva graces the *Shukanasika* (the projection above the entrance), thereby further reinforcing the temple’s religious significance.

By virtue of its antiquity, exquisite architecture, and religious importance, the Chandla Temple stands as one of the premier attractions in Kadwaya and serves as a living testament to the historical grandeur of the region.

2. Shiv Temple at Gadhi

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this west-facing Shiva temple is situated within the fortified enclosure located in the center of the village. The temple rests upon a *Jadyakumbha* plinth. Surmounting this plinth are *Khura* and *Kumbha* moldings, featuring *Devakulikas* (niches) in which various deities are intricately carved.

The temple’s structure primarily comprises a *Garbhagriha* (sanctum sanctorum) and a columned *Mandapa* (hall). Notable features include a sanctum entrance adorned with five decorative bands (*Panchashakha*) and a hall supported by pillars. A *Shivling* is enshrined within the sanctum. The temple’s spire has, however, been destroyed over time.

The *Jangha* (wall) section of the temple features carvings of numerous deities—including the *Ashtadikpalas* (Guardians of the Eight Directions)—arranged in two distinct rows. An inscription found on the temple’s floor contains a reference to Alauddin Khilji.

3. Shiva Temple and Pond Complex

This temple is situated on the route connecting the villages of Kadwaya and Bakhtar. Facing east, this Shiva temple stands on the banks of an ancient tank, which is currently utilized for agriculture. In terms of ornamentation, this temple represents the pinnacle of artistic standards among all the temples in Kadwaya. It should be acknowledged as the most architecturally evolved temple in Kadwaya.

The original layout of the temple comprises a *Garbhagriha* (sanctum sanctorum), a columned *Mandapa* (hall) featuring a *Kakshasana* (sloping backrest), and an *Ardha-mandapa* (entrance porch). The temple rests upon a high *Jagati* (plinth), access to which is provided by a flight of steps located on the eastern side. The *Vedibandha* (base molding) features intricate carvings of *Khura*, *Kumbha*, and *Kalasha* motifs. A *Shivalinga* is enshrined within the temple’s *Garbhagriha*. The entrance to the sanctum is articulated into seven distinct door-jambs (*Saptadvara-shakhas*). The *Lalatabimba* (lintel medallion) depicts the divine couple Shiva and Parvati, flanked by carved representations of the divine couples Brahma-Saraswati and Vishnu-Lakshmi. The ceiling of the *Mandapa* is adorned with a blooming lotus motif and features carvings of various deities along its periphery. The pillars of the *Mandapa* are highly ornate and embellished with *Bharavahakas* (load-bearers) displaying a variety of facial expressions. The *Jangha* (wall section) of the temple features depictions of Lakshmi-Narayana, Uma-Maheshwara, Brahma, Shiva, Bhairavi, and Vishnu. This temple stands as a significant and representative example of the *Kachchhapaghata* school of architecture.