11.3.18 The Kama Sutra - Love and Prana                             Energy in Hindu Thought

After a very long travel day by train and bus we arrive in Khajuraho, which was the center of a thriving Chandelas civilization in the 10th century. Within easy walking distance of our hotel, we find the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built between the 9th and 10th centuries by the Chandela Dynasty, which dominated Central India during that time.

That's Michele - not a statue (ha ha)

And, as so often happened on this trip, a "learning and discovery" event occurs spontaneously when we see people running after the Jain monks, who were pretty easy to spot since their vows require them to shed all clothing as part of their renunciation of all worldly things. Apparently they visit temples throughout India, staying for approximately 4 months at a time, carrying only a fan made of peacock feathers and water. Some also carry scriptures. 

Part of the initiation process during the last step of achieving monasticism is for the monk to walk naked amid people without any indication of sensory response in order to prove he is focused on his calling. In most sects there is a hand pulling of bodily hair, which in modern times follows their hair being shaved.

The temple carvings are incredibly intricate and stunning. Many of them focus on the Kama Sutra and pleasure.

Even Ganesh, often portrayed riding a small mouse, 

enjoys its location in this carving.

Mike said more people would take yoga 

if they knew it would make them this limber.

What impressed me most was the detail in the facial expressions 

and fingers.  I love the look on the leftmost lady's face.

Our guide said this was the only smiling elephant. 

He is truly enjoying some serious voyeurism.

Beautiful carvings in one of the smaller temples.