A Study of Sculpture Panels and Scattered Archaeological Remains in the Shilar-Yadava Period Shiva Temple Premises at Lonad

Pankaj Vijay Samel

Independent Scholar | Founder, Purasanskriti

Email: pankajsamel.purasanskriti@gmail.com | Mobile: 9820254601

Abstract :The Shiva temple at Lonad, near Kalyan, is an excellent example of Shilar-Yadava period architecture. Built during the 12th–13th centuries, this temple is considered historically significant due to the intricate carvings on its walls, including depictions of Nataraja, Andhakasur-vadha, Chamunda, and the Matrikas (divine mothers) featured above the entrance to the sanctum sanctorum. This research paper provides a status report on the important sculpture panels that have gone missing from the temple walls and the loose sculptures scattered around the temple premises.

The study reveals that due to natural erosion and human interference, many valuable sculptures from this temple have been lost or stolen. This paper attempts to identify these missing sculptures using available photographs. Furthermore, the primary objective of this research is to document the idols of various deities, the Bharvahak Yakshas (load-bearing spirits), Lajjagauri figures, and temple pillars scattered across the site. The thesis emphasizes the urgent need for conservation and preservation measures to protect the heritage of Lonad.

Keywords: Lonad, Shilar-Yadava Dynasty, Temple Architecture, Kalyan, Cultural Heritage Conservation.