With reference to Chausath Yogini Temple situated near Morena, consider the following statements :
- It is a circular temple built during the reign of Kachchhapaghata Dynasty.
- It is the only circular temple built in India.
- It was meant to promote the Vaishnava cult in the region.
- Its design has given rise to a popular belief that it was the inspiration behind the Indian Parliament building. Which of the statements given above are correct?
Correct Answer: Option C
The Chausath Yogini Temple is located in the Morena district, about 40 kilometers from Gwalior.
According to an inscription dated to 1323 CE (Vikram Samvat 1383), the temple was built by the Kachchhapaghata king Devapala (1055 – 1075). Hence, statement 1 is correct.
While the cells and the main shrine are flat-topped, it is believed that each originally had a shikhara. The 64 Yoginis originally placed in the subsidiary shrines are now missing, replaced by Shiva lingas. The central shrine also holds a Shivalinga.
The temple's circular shape is popularly believed to have inspired the design of the Indian Parliament. The circular shape likely represented a Sri-Yantra, with the Supreme Yogini or Maha Sakti residing in the center.
This is not the only circular temple in India. Also, it was not meant to promote the Vaishnava cult.
Hence, statements 2 and 3 are not correct, and statement 4 is correct.
Therefore, the correct answer is option (c).