Deen
Dayal began his career in Indore and his coverage of Central
India is most extensive. Sanchi, Gwalior, Mandu, Orcha, Khajuraho
all were captured exquisitely.
Khajuraho
in North Central India is one of the popular tourist destinations
comprising of 85 temples built between 950 to 1050 AD under
the aegis of the Chandella Kings. This dynasty ruled for five
centuries in conditions of untroubled abundance and unfettered
freedom for life.
The
temples depict explicit erotic sculptures in addition to feasting,
music and dancing. All the Gods in the Hindu pantheon are lavishly
honoured. The sculptures are elegant and impressive though the
subject of the carvings has given rise to all kinds of criticism.
The
largest of the temples is the Kandariya Mahadeva, one of the
finest Siva temples. It consists of five parts each with a pinnacled
spire. Sculptures cover every visible surface and reflect a
vivid picture of Indian art in its golden age. One observer
puts the count of figures in this temple at 872. Other notable
temples are Devi Jagdambe and Chitragupta.