Marilo Marb
An Architectural Marvel
Sasbahu Temples (mother and daughter), are situated south of the Man Mandir Palace, dating from the IX-XI centuries and are dedicated to the worship of Vishnu. It is believed that the temple got its name because the bigger temple was built by a dancer who worshipped Vishnu and the smallest, the daughter, was an old maid who worshipped Shiva. On the road to Gwalior, after having seen so many beautiful and majestic palaces, I thought nothing would shock me ... and I was wrong. These temples are some of the most beautiful monuments in India (in my opinion, of course). The biggest stands on a large base and is an architectural marvel.
The different storeys two floor porches and on the ceiling is a lotus flower which is supported by four imposing columns and pillars . It is beautifully carved with figures of dancers and depending on the time they appear to come to life and dance for Vishnu. The smaller temple, Bahu (the daughter) also stands on a finely carved base. Its plan is cruciform and the door is open with a pyramid shaped roof that is supported by octagonal columns. They are fairly well preserved and in addition to tourists, there are Hindus offering prayers. I was told by a 'spontaneous Hindu guide' that although the legend says that it was named after a mother and daughter, it also considered that the name is due to the short form of Shashtra Bahu, another name of God Vishnu.
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