Kama Sutra, Khajuraho

IMG_4761 (Large)IMG_4826 (Large)IMG_4829 (Large)The temples of Khajuraho were built between 950 to 1050 A.D. during the Chandela dynasty of Central India. After the decline of the Chandela dynasty in 13th century, the temples were left under the cover of dense date palm trees for many years, which gave the city of Khajuraho its name, Khajur in Hindi means a date. In 1838, a British army engineer, Captain T.S. Burt rediscovered them. By that time only 22 of the original 85 temples had survived. The erotic sculptures of Khajuraho depicting Kama Sutra are unique in the world.

These sculptures representing the Indo-Aryan architecture, congeal in stone a lyrical poem to love and passion and reflect the Chandela dynasty’s passion and immense appreciation for the forbidden art, paradoxically, in the land of Kama Sutra. They cannot be passed off as just erotic sculptures; the temples have some of the most revered Gods of Hinduism.

More about Sadhus, the holy men of India. Here at sl4lifestyle.

Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi

IMG_3881 (Large) IMG_3937 (Large)This UNESCO World Heritage Site serves as a memorial to the Mughal Emperor Humayun. The mausoleum was built from 1562-1572 AD with the help of Persian architects, Sayyed Muhammad ibn Mirak Ghiyathuddin and his father Mirak Ghiyathuddin, who were brought in from Herat (Afghanistan). The tomb clearly exhibits the influence of Persian art and was a landmark in establishing some of the essential norms for later Mughal mausoleums in India.IMG_3852 (Large) IMG_3843 (Large)It was definitely one of my favourite spots in the busy town of Delhi. It was good to enjoy the quietness of the place after the stress of the huge Indian city.IMG_3876 (Large)

Lala, Painter, Udaipur

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I met Dhrur Sharma, nick name „Lala“ in Udaipur. His gallery is opposite the Hotel Pichola Haveli. He shows his paintings in miniature art. The 38 years old artist paints for the last 21 years. He got inspiration from his artist family. For one painting he needs about 9 days with daily 6 hours of work.IMG_4259 (Large)IMG_4258 (Large)IMG_4257 (Large)IMG_4261 (Large)