Nepal: Erotic carving detail from the Jagannath Temple, Durbar Square, Kathmandu

Immediately west of the Royal Palace entrance gate, the rusty-red Jagannath Temple, built in 1653 by Mahendra Malla, enshrines a figure of the Chaturmurti Vishnu, the 'Four-Figured Vishnu'. This particular form of Vishnu is also called Jagannath, 'Lord of the World', and the etymological root of the English word 'juggernaut'.

The main shrine in the Jagannath Temple is accessible only to priests. The large struts under the roof are covered with erotic carvings. These carvings, which are fairly crudely executed, occupy the base of larger and more refined carvings representing gods and goddesses. The latter are dressed in regal finery, adorned with crowns and jewellery, and wear serene expressions on their faces.

Copyright:

CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Photographer:

Rainer Krack

Credit:

Pictures From Asia