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U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to 1st Platoon, Fox Troop, 2nd Squadron, 3rd Cavalry Regiment, Fort Hood, Texas, unload personnel and equipment from a C-17 Globemaster III during a rapid deployment in support of Decisive Action Rotation 18-10 at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., Sept. 5, 2018. Decisive Action Rotations at the National Training Center ensure Army Brigade Combat Teams remain versatile, responsive, and consistently available for current and future contingencies. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Carlos Cameron, Operations Group, National Training Center)
Troopers assigned to Ghost Troop, 2nd Squadron (Cougars), 2nd Cavalry Regiment and Field Artillery Squadron, whom directly supports 2nd Squadron, set up and prepare defensive positions as the unit conducts tactical operations during the X days portion of Exercise Allied Spirit IV, being held at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center located in Hohenfels, Germany, Jan. 29, 2016. The goal of the exercise is to prepare forces, in Europe, to operate together by exercising tactical interoperability and testing secure communications within NATO Alliance members and partner nations. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. William A. Tanner)
Soldiers assigned to the United States Army Drill Team, 4th Battalion, 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), perform a drill during the half-time show of the United States Military Academy versus the University of Oklahoma football game at The Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, Norman, Oklahoma, September 22, 2018. The U.S. Army Drill Team has earned international acclaim through its breathtaking routines with bayonet-tipped 1903 Springfield rifles. The team are goodwill ambassadors for the Army and participate in major military and civic functions. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Gabriel Silva)
Paratroopers assigned to Company C, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, practice room clearing drills at the Tapa training area in Estonia on June 6. The paratroopers of Company C are part of approximately 600 paratroopers from the brigade training with NATO allies in Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland, as part of an unscheduled land-forces exercise to demonstrate commitment to NATO obligations and sustain interoperability with allied forces. Photo By: Sgt. Anthony Jones, 145th MPAD, Oklahoma Army National Guard
Soldiers assigned to the United States Army Drill Team, 4th Battalion, 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) perform at during half-time at Audi Field, home of D.C. United Soccer Club, Washington D.C., September 12, 2018. The United States Army Drill Team has earned international acclaim through its breathtaking routines with bayonet-tipped 1903 Springfield rifles. The teams are goodwill ambassadors for the Army and participate in major military and civic functions. (U.S. Army photos by Spc. Gabriel Silva)
Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and The U.S. Army Band, “Pershing’s Own,” provided ceremonial support for a Department of the Army retirement ceremony in Conmy Hall on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Virginia, July 29, 2021. During the ceremony, hosted by Maj. Gen. Allan M. Pepin, commanding general, Joint Force Headquarters - National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington, and Regimental Command Sgt. Maj. Philip D. Whittington, Jr., Soldiers from across the Army retired after years of service to the country. (U.S. Army photos by Sgt. Charlotte Carulli)
Story by Army.Mil Features.
Sgt. 1st Class Leroy Arthur Petry is currently assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga. with duties as a liaison officer for the United States Special Operations Command Care Coalition—Northwest Region, providing oversight to wounded warriors, ill and injured service members and their families.
He was born in 1979 in New Mexico.
After graduating from Saint Catherine’s Indian High School in May 1998, Petry spent the next year working with his father and grandfather at Pecos Public Transportation working in the maintenance department and making signs at AI Signs.
In September 1999, Petry enlisted in the United States Army from his hometown in New Mexico, something he wanted to do since he was 7-years-old. Petry then volunteered for the 75th Ranger Regiment because of its reputable history.
After completion of One Station Unit Training, the Basic Airborne Course and the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program – all at Fort Benning – Petry was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. He served as a grenadier, squad automatic rifleman, fire team leader, squad leader, operations sergeant and a weapons squad leader.
He has deployed eight times in support of overseas contingency operations with two tours to Iraq and six tours to Afghanistan.
At the time of the May 26, 2008 combat engagement, Petry was a Staff Sergeant Squad Leader assigned to Co. D, 2nd Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.
Petry plans to retire from the Army after many more years of service. Petry enjoys serving in the Army, and has a great opportunity to work with the care coalition; in his words, "If I can’t go to the fight, I can help the men who are wounded, injured or ill."
His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Combat Life Saver Course, U.S. Army Ranger Course, Warrior Leader Course, Jumpmaster Course, Advanced Leader Course, Senior Leader Course and Combatives Level One Course.
His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Expert Infantryman’s Badge, Senior Parachutist Badge, the Parachutist Badge and Canadian Jump Wings.
He has also been awarded two Bronze Star Medals, a Purple Heart, three Army Commendation Medals, two Army Achievement Medals, Valorous Unit Award, three Army Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Combat Star, Iraq Campaign Medal with Combat Star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Non-commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with numeral 3, Overseas Service Ribbon and the Army Service Ribbon.
Petry and his wife have four children. His father lives in Pecos, N.M., and his mother lives in Bernalillo, N.M. Petry has four brothers and when he is not spending time with his family, he enjoys golf, pheasant hunting and fishing. He is currently attending Pierce College at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., with plans for a Bachelor of Science degree in business management.
Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) provide ceremonial support for the National Memorial Day Observance at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia, May 30, 2022. President Joseph R. Biden participated in the Presidential Armed Forces Full Honor wreath-laying ceremony hosted by Maj. Gen. Allan M. Pepin, commanding general, Joint Task Force-National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington. (U.S. Army photo by Cpl. Laura Stephens)
Soldiers assigned to the U.S. Army Caisson Platoon, 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), attended the Anatomy Sports Event with Skeeter at the National Museum of Health and Medicine in Silver Springs, Maryland, 17 August, 2019. (U.S. Army Photos by Spc. Jacob Plank)
Paratroopers assigned to 82nd Airborne Division conduct a Division Run during All American Week 100 at Fort Bragg, N.C., May 22, 2017 (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Houston Graham)
The Division Run is the opening event of All American Week 100, where Paratroopers past and present come together to celebrate being members of the All American Division. The theme for All American Week 100 is, “Celebrating a Century of Service!”
Soldiers assigned to 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), participate in a General Officer Retirement Ceremony in Conmy Hall, Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va., March 29, 2019. The ceremony was held in honor of Maj. Gen. Phillip M. Churn, general officer support, Individual Mobilization Augmentation, Office of the Chief of Army Reserve; and Brig. Gen. Erik H. Torring III, deputy chief of staff for operations, U.S. Army Medical Command/ Chief of the Veterinary Corps. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Nicholas T. Holmes)
Soldiers assigned to 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), conduct military funeral honors for U.S. Army Gen. Montgomery C. Meigs,the former commander-in-chief of the United States Army Europe, in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, Jan. 25, 2022. As commander-in-chief, Meigs commanded a U.S. European military force of 60,000 from 1998 to 2002 and oversaw NATO peacekeeping efforts in Bosnia. Meigs was named after his ancestor, Quartermaster General Montgomery C. Meigs, one of the principal architects of Arlington National Cemetery, and his father Lt. Col Montgomery Meigs, a WWII tank commander, who was killed in action one month before Meigs was born. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Charlotte Carulli)
Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), provide support for a Department of the Army retirement ceremony at Conmy Hall on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va., March 29, 2018. The ceremony was held for 43 Soldiers assigned to the Military District of Washington who retired after more than 860 years of combined service to the U.S. Army. (U.S. Army photos by Spc. Gabriel Silva)
Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) participate in a validation of the 2018 Twilight Tattoo on Joint Base Myer - Henderson Hall, Va., April 11, 2018. Twilight Tattoo is an event that showcases the history of the U.S. Army through the Soldier of The Old Guard and The U.S. Army Band “Pershin’s Own”. (U.S. Army photos by Spc. Gabriel Silva)
Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) support modified military funeral honors with funeral escort for U.S. Army 1st Lt. Robert Charles Styslinger in Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, June 18, 2021.
From the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA):
In late 1950, Styslinger served with Battery B, 57th Field Artillery Battalion, 7th Infantry Division. He was reported to have been killed in action Nov. 29, 1950 while fighting enemy forces near Hagaru-ri, Chosin Reservoir, North Korea. His remains could not be recovered.
On July 27, 2018, following the summit between President Donald Trump and North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un in June 2018, North Korea turned over 55 boxes, purported to contain the remains of American service members killed during the Korean War. The remains arrived at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii on Aug. 1, 2018, and were subsequently accessioned into the DPAA laboratory for identification.
To identify Styslinger’s remains, scientists from DPAA used anthropological analysis, as well as circumstantial and material evidence. Additionally, scientists from the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System used mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), Y-chromosome DNA (Y-STR) and autosomal DNA (auSTR) analysis.
Styslinger’s niece, Cecelia Sheridan, received the U.S. flag from his casket.
(U.S. Army photos by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released)
Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) host members of The Old Guard Association on Sept. 16, 2022. The visit included an Army Full Honors Wreath Laying Ceremony at The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, and a Pass and Review in Conmy Hall at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va.
(U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Laura Stephens)
Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) celebrate the U.S. Army's 248th Birthday with a run led by Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth, Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. James C. McConville, Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael A. Grinston, and W.Va. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito in Fort Myer, Va., June 15, 2023. The event honors the Army's legacy and builds esprit de corps among Soldiers.
(U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Laura Stephens)
Troopers assigned to Eagle Troop, 2nd Squadron, 2d Cavalry Regiment conduct foot patrols and convoy maneuvers with their Stryker Combat Vehicles while participating in their unit's Squad Tactical Exercise during Allied Spirit IV, being held at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC,) located in Hohenfels, Germany, Jan. 20, 2016. The purpose of the training during Allied Spirit IV is to showcase JMRC's world-class facility while highlighting its ability to train U.S. Soldiers to communicate and work alongside their NATO Allies in a realistic environment. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. William A. Tanner)
Soldiers assigned to 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) provide ceremonial support during a Presidential Armed Forces Full Honor wreath-laying ceremony, on behalf of the nation, to commemorate the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln’s 212th birthday at the Lincoln Memorial, Washington, D.C., February 12, 2021. During the ceremony, hosted by National Park Service, Park Ranger Christopher Bloom accompanied Maj. Gen. Omar J. Jones IV, commanding general, Joint Force Headquarters - National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington, as Jones laid a wreath. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Nicholas Holmes)
The Chateau Bell Captain assigned a Bell Man to take me t a beautiful room on the top 8th floor. It was a two story room with the bedroom on the second floor with an outside balcony. I had my Nikon P1000 DLSR camera with me. The bell man pointed out three buildings that were very difficult to see with the naked eye.
This structure is a roofed open outdoor shelter very high on the Chateau view right side dome overlooking Lake Louise. It was the greatest distance from the balcony but I managed to get a hand held shot with the Nikon P1000. It would have been difficult carrying a tripod up the spiral staircase in the room and I was not able to bring on due to train luggage restrictions.
My wife and I celebrated our 50th anniversary with a wonderful Rocky Mountaineer train trip from Vancouver to Lake Louise and back the week of May 5-11, 2019. We flew from Phoenix to Seattle, bused to the Pacific Central Station and Fairmont Waterfront hotel in Vancouver and then boarded the Rocky mountaineer train early the next morning. The mountains, sights, food and luxurious service all made for the most wonderful trip we ever made. The Lake Louise Chateau was especially elegant. We enjoyed the resort for a full day mid-week. We returned from Vancouver to Seattle on the Amtrak coastal route train.
Soldiers assigned to the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, and their counterparts assigned to the Lithuanian Armed Forces assemble across the firing line during a combined arms live-fire exercise, that demonstrates joint fire capability and maneuvering across firing lines at a military installation near Pabrade, Lithuania, Oct. 30, 2014. These activities are part of the U.S. Army Europe-led Operation Atlantic Resolve land force assurance training taking place across Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland to enhance multinational interoperability, strengthen relationships among allied militaries, contribute to regional stability and demonstrate U.S. commitment to NATO. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Seth LaCount/Released)
Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), conduct a Change of Command ceremony for the Military District of Washington in Conmy Hall on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va., June 1, 2023. During the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Allan Pepin relinquished command to Maj. Gen. Trevor J. Bredenkamp. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Laura Stephens)
Sailors assigned to Commander, Task Group (CTG) 56.7, connect a tow-hook to a riverine command boat during a training exercise. CTG-56.7 provides a multi-mission platform for the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility by focusing on maritime security operations, maritime infrastructure protection, and theater security cooperation efforts, in addition to offensive combat operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Michelle L. Turner/Released)
Soldiers assigned to Task Force Orion, 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, New York Army National Guard, 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, and the Joint Multinational Readiness Center, carry a military training manikin away from a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter during a medical evacuation rehearsal at Grafenwoehr, Germany, Nov. 3, 2022. Task Force Orion has been deployed in support of the Joint Multinational Training Group – Ukraine mission since August 2022 to ensure the combat effectiveness of Ukrainian military personnel training on systems and equipment issued under the United States’ Presidential Drawdown Authority. (U.S. National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Jordan Sivayavirojna)
Soldiers assigned to the Virginia Army National Guard's Recruiting and Retention Battalion participate in a sales training event held by Fanatical Military Recruiting August 26, 2020, at the State Military Reservation in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The training was followed by an awards presentation where top selected Soldiers received awards and coins for outstanding performance during 2019. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Lisa Sadler)
Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), conduct a Twilight Tattoo performance on Summerall Field, Joint Base Myer Henderson-Hall, Va., May 23, 2018. Twilight Tattoo is an hour-long pageant, which showcases the U.S. Army through Soldiers of the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own". (U.S. Army photos Sgt. George Huley)
Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and The U.S. Army Band, “Pershing’s Own,” provide ceremonial support for a Department of the Army Retirement Ceremony in Conmy Hall on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Virginia, August 27, 2020. During the ceremony, hosted by Maj. Gen. Omar J. Jones IV, commanding general, Joint Force Headquarters - National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington, 28 Soldiers from across the Army retired with a collective total of more than 600 years of service. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Nicholas T. Holmes)
A modified M1068A3 SICPS assigned to 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Tennessee Army National Guard, executes a tactical pause from their fighting position during Decisive Action Rotation 18-07 at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., May 6, 2018. Decisive Action Rotations at the National Training Center ensure units remain versatile, responsive, and consistently available for current and future contingencies. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Guy Mingo, Operations Group, National Training Center)
Soldiers assigned to the 222nd Chemical Company, New York Army National Guard, and officers with the New York Police Department's COBRA (Chemical Ordinance, Biological and Radiological Awareness) training unit conduct an exercise simulating an urban chemical attack at Rodman's Neck Tactical Village, Bronx, N.Y., Nov. 19, 2016. The New York Army National Guard Soldiers and officers with the COBRA training unit used the exercise to share techniques and procedures, as well as enhance their readiness in case of a natural disaster or terrorist attack. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Harley Jelis)
PHILIPPINE SEA (June 21, 2018) - Sailors assigned to the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) conduct a visit, board, search and seizure drill on the ship's boat deck. Chancellorsville is forward-deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in support of security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sarah Myers) 180621-N-ZL062-0009
** Interested in following U.S. Indo-Pacific Command? Engage and connect with us at www.facebook.com/indopacom | twitter.com/PacificCommand |
www.instagram.com/indopacom | www.flickr.com/photos/us-pacific-command; | www.youtube.com/user/USPacificCommand | www.pacom.mil/ **
Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and The U.S. Army Band, “Pershing’s Own,” provide ceremonial support for a Department of the Army Retirement Ceremony in Conmy Hall on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Virginia, September 24, 2020. The ceremony was hosted by Maj. Gen. Omar J. Jones IV, commanding general, Joint Force Headquarters - National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Charlie Jones)
Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), participate in the Basic Horsemanship course at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Virginia, March 3, 2021. The intensive 10-week course teaches Soldiers the basics of horsemanship and ceremonial proficiency on horseback. Upon completion of the course, Soldiers will be qualified experts in horsemanship and able to carry out Caisson’s mission in Arlington National Cemetery. (U.S. Army photo Sgt. Nicholas Holmes)
Chitragupta is a Hindu god assigned with the task of keeping complete records of actions of human beings on the earth. Upon their death, Chitragupta has the task of deciding heaven or the hell for the humans, depending on their actions on the earth.
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The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a group of Hindu and Jain temples in Madhya Pradesh, India. About 175 kilometres southeast of Jhansi, they are one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. The temples are famous for their nagara-style architectural symbolism and their erotic sculptures.
Most Khajuraho temples were built between 950 and 1050 CE by the Chandela dynasty. Historical records note that Khajuraho temple site had 85 temples by 12th century, spread over 20 square kilometers. Of these, only about 20 temples have survived, spread over 6 square kilometers. Of the various surviving temples, the Kandariya temple is decorated with a profusion of sculptures with intricate details, symbolism and expressiveness of ancient Indian art.
The Khajuraho group of temples were built together but were dedicated to two religions namely Hinduism and Jainism - suggesting a tradition of acceptance and respect for diverse religious views among Hindus and Jains.
LOCATION
Khajuraho group of monuments are located in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, in Chhatarpur District, about 620 kilometres southeast of New Delhi. The temples are in a small town also known as Khajuraho, with a population of about 20,000 people (2001 Census).
Khajuraho is served by Khajuraho Airport (IATA Code: HJR), with services to Delhi, Agra and Mumbai. The site is also linked by Indian Railways service, with the railway station approximately six kilometer from the monuments entrance.
The monuments are about 10 kilometres off the east-west National Highway 75, and about 50 kilometres from the city of Chhatarpur, that is connected to Bhopal - the state capital - by the SW-NE running National Highway 86.
HISTORY
The Khajuraho group of monuments were built during the rule of Rajput Chandela dynasty. The building activity started almost immediately after the rise of their power, throughout their kingdom to be later known as Bundelkhand. Most temples were built during the reigns of the Hindu kings Yashovarman and Dhanga. Yashovarman's legacy is best exhibited by Lakshmana temple. Vishvanatha temple best highlights King Dhanga's reign.:22 The largest and currently most famous surviving temple is Kandariya Mahadeva built in the reign of King Ganda from 1017-1029 CE. The temple inscriptions suggest many of the currently surviving temples were complete between 970 to 1030 CE, with few more temples completed in decades thereafter.
The Khajuraho temples were built about 35 miles from the medieval city of Mahoba, the capital of Chandela dynasty, in Kalinjar region. In ancient and medieval literature, their kingdom has been called Jijhoti, Jejahoti, Chih-chi-to and Jejakabhukti.
Khajuraho were mentioned by Abu Rihan-al-Biruni, the Persian historian who accompanied Mahmud of Ghazni in his raid of Kalinjar in 1022 CE; he mentions Khajuraho as the capital of Jajahuti. The raid was unsuccessful, and a peace accord was reached when the Hindu king agreed to pay a ransom to Mahmud of Ghazni to end the attack and leave.
Khajuraho temples were in active use through the end of 12th century. This changed in the 13th century, after the army of Delhi Sultanate, under the command of the Muslim Sultan Qutb-ud-din Aibak, attacked and seized the Chandela kingdom. About a century later, Ibn Battuta, the Moroccan traveller in his memoirs about his stay in India from 1335 to 1342 CE, mentioned visiting Khajuraho temples, calling them “Kajarra” as follows:
...near (Khajuraho) temples, which contain idols that have been mutilated by the Moslems, live a number of yogis whose matted locks have grown as long as their bodies. And on account of extreme asceticism they are all yellow in colour. Many Moslems attend these men in order to take lessons (yoga) from them.
— Ibn Battuta, about 1335 CE, Riḥlat Ibn Baṭūṭah, Translated by Arthur Cotterell
Central Indian region, where Khajuraho temples are, remained in the control of many different Muslim dynasties from 13th century through the 18th century. In this period, some temples were desecrated, followed by a long period when they were left in neglect. In 1495 CE, for example, Sikandar Lodi’s campaign of temple destruction included Khajuraho. The remoteness and isolation of Khajuraho protected the Hindu and Jain temples from continued destruction by Muslims. Over the centuries, vegetation and forests overgrew, took over the temples.
In the 1830s, local Hindus guided a British surveyor, T.S. Burt, to the temples and they were thus rediscovered by the global audience. Alexander Cunningham later reported, few years after the rediscovery, that the temples were secretly in use by yogis and thousands of Hindus would arrive for pilgrimage during Shivaratri celebrated annually in February or March based on a lunar calendar. In 1852, Maisey prepared earliest drawings of the Khajuraho temples.
NOMENCLATURE
The name Khajuraho, or Kharjuravāhaka, is derived from ancient Sanskrit (kharjura, खर्जूर means date palm, and vāhaka, वाहक means "one who carries" or bearer). Local legends state that the temples had two golden date-palm trees as their gate (missing when they were rediscovered). Desai states that Kharjuravāhaka also means scorpion bearer, which is another symbolic name for deity Shiva (who wears snakes and scorpion garlands in his fierce form).
Cunningham’s nomenclature and systematic documentation work in 1850s and 1860s have been widely adopted and continue to be in use. He grouped the temples into the Western group around Lakshmana, Eastern group around Javeri, and Southern group around Duladeva.
Khajuraho is one of the four holy sites linked to deity Shiva (the other three are Kedarnath, Kashi and Gaya). Its origin and design is a subject of scholarly studies. Shobita Punja has proposed that the temple’s origin reflect the Hindu mythology in which Khajuraho is the place where Shiva got married; with Raghuvamsha verse 5.53, Matangeshvara honoring ‘’Matanga’’, or god of love.
DESCRIPTION
The temple site is within Vindhya mountain range in central India. An ancient local legend held that Hindu deity Shiva and other gods enjoyed visiting the dramatic hill formation in Kalinjar area. The center of this region is Khajuraho, set midst local hills and rivers. The temple complex reflects the ancient Hindu tradition of building temples where gods love to play.
The temples are clustered near water, another typical feature of Hindu temples. The current water bodies include Sib Sagar, Khajur Sagar (also called Ninora Tal) and Khudar Nadi (river). The local legends state that the temple complex had 64 water bodies, of which 56 have been physically identified by archeologists so far.
All temples, except one (Chaturbhuja) face sunrise - another symbolic feature that is predominant in Hindu temples. The relative layout of temples integrate masculine and feminine deities and symbols highlight the interdependence. The art work symbolically highlight the four goals of life considered necessary and proper in Hinduism - dharma, kama, artha and moksha.
Of the surviving temples, 6 are dedicated to Shiva and his consorts, 8 to Vishnu and his affinities, 1 to Ganesha, 1 to Sun god, 3 to Jain Tirthanks. For some ruins, there is insufficient evidence to assign the temple to specific deities with confidence.
An overall examination of site suggests that the Hindu symbolic mandala design principle of square and circles is present each temple plan and design. Further, the territory is laid out in three triangles that converge to form a pentagon. Scholars suggest that this reflects the Hindu symbolism for three realms or trilokinatha, and five cosmic substances or panchbhuteshvara. The temple site highlights Shiva, the one who destroys and recycles life, thereby controlling the cosmic dance of time, evolution and dissolution.
The temples have a rich display of intricately carved statues. While they are famous for their erotic sculpture, sexual themes cover less than 10% of the temple sculpture. Further, most erotic scene panels are neither prominent nor emphasized at the expense of the rest, rather they are in proportional balance with the non-sexual images. The viewer has to look closely to find them, or be directed by a guide. The arts cover numerous aspects of human life and values considered important in Hindu pantheon. Further, the images are arranged in a configuration to express central ideas of Hinduism. All three ideas from Āgamas are richly expressed in Khajuraho temples - Avyakta, Vyaktavyakta and Vyakta.
The Beejamandal temple is under excavation. It has been identified with the Vaidyanath temple mentioned in the Grahpati Kokalla inscription.
Of all temples, the Matangeshvara temple remains an active site of worship. It is another square grid temple, with a large 2.5 metres high and 1.1 metres diameter lingam, placed on a 7.6 metres diameter platform.
The most visited temple, Kandariya Mahadev, has an area of about 6,500 square feet and a shikhara (spire) that rise
s 116 feet.
Jain templesThe Jain temples are located on east-southeast region of Khajuraho monuments. Chausath jogini temple features 64 jogini, while Ghantai temple features bells sculptured on its pillars.
ARCHITECTURE OF THE TEMPLES
Khajuraho temples, like almost all Hindu temple designs, follow a grid geometrical design called vastu-purusha-mandala. This design plan has three important components - Mandala means circle, Purusha is universal essence at the core of Hindu tradition, while Vastu means the dwelling structure.
The design lays out a Hindu temple in a symmetrical, concentrically layered, self-repeating structure around the core of the temple called garbhagriya, where the abstract principle Purusha and the primary deity of the temple dwell. The shikhara, or spire, of the temple rises above the garbhagriya. This symmetry and structure in design is derived from central beliefs, myths, cardinality and mathematical principles.
The circle of mandala circumscribe the square. The square is considered divine for its perfection and as a symbolic product of knowledge and human thought, while circle is considered earthly, human and observed in everyday life (moon, sun, horizon, water drop, rainbow). Each supports the other. The square is divided into perfect 64 sub-squares called padas.
Most Khajuraho temples deploy the 8x8 padas grid Manduka Vastupurushamandala, with pitha mandala the square grid incorporated in the design of the spires. The primary deity or lingas are located in the grid’s Brahma padas.The architecture is symbolic and reflects the central Hindu beliefs through its form, structure and arrangement of its parts. The mandapas as well as the arts are arranged in the Khajuraho temples in a symmetric repeating patterns, even though each image or sculpture is distinctive in its own way. The relative placement of the images are not random but together they express ideas, just like connected words form sentences and paragraphs to compose ideas. This fractal pattern that is common in Hindu temples. Various statues and panels have inscriptions. Many of the inscriptions on the temple walls are poems with double meanings, something that the complex structure of Sanskrit allows in creative compositions. All Khajuraho temples, except one, face sunrise, and the entrance for the devotee is this east side.
Above the vastu-purusha-mandala of each temple is a superstructure with a dome called Shikhara (or Vimana, Spire). Variations in spire design come from variation in degrees turned for the squares. The temple Shikhara, in some literature, is linked to mount Kailash or Meru, the mythical abode of the gods.
In each temple, the central space typically is surrounded by an ambulatory for the pilgrim to walk around and ritually circumambulate the Purusa and the main deity. The pillars, walls and ceilings around the space, as well as outside have highly ornate carvings or images of the four just and necessary pursuits of life - kama, artha, dharma and moksa. This clockwise walk around is called pradakshina.
Larger Khajuraho temples also have pillared halls called mandapa. One near the entrance, on the east side, serves as the waiting room for pilgrims and devotees. The mandapas are also arranged by principles of symmetry, grids and mathematical precision. This use of same underlying architectural principle is common in Hindu temples found all over India. Each Khajuraho temple is distinctly carved yet also repeating the central common principles in almost all Hindu temples, one which Susan Lewandowski refers to as “an organism of repeating cells”.
CONSTRUCTION
The temples are grouped into three geographical divisions: western, eastern and southern.
The Khajuraho temples are made of sandstone, with a granite foundation that is almost concealed from view. The builders didn't use mortar: the stones were put together with mortise and tenon joints and they were held in place by gravity. This form of construction requires very precise joints. The columns and architraves were built with megaliths that weighed up to 20 tons. Some repair work in the 19th Century was done with brick and mortar; however these have aged faster than original materials and darkened with time, thereby seeming out of place.
The Khajuraho and Kalinjar region is home to superior quality of sandstone, which can be precision carved. The surviving sculpture reflect fine details such as strands of hair, manicured nails and intricate jewelry.
While recording the television show Lost Worlds (History Channel) at Khajuraho, Alex Evans recreated a stone sculpture under 4 feet that took about 60 days to carve in an attempt to develop a rough idea how much work must have been involved. Roger Hopkins and Mark Lehner also conducted experiments to quarry limestone which took 12 quarrymen 22 days to quarry about 400 tons of stone. They concluded that these temples would have required hundreds of highly trained sculptors.
CHRONOLOGY
The Khajuraho group of temples belong to Vaishnavism school of Hinduism, Saivism school of Hinduism and Jainism - nearly a third each. Archaeological studies suggest all three types of temples were under construction at about the same time in late 10th century, and in use simultaneously. Will Durant states that this aspect of Khajuraho temples illustrates the tolerance and respect for different religious viewpoints in the Hindu and Jain traditions. In each group of Khajuraho temples, there were major temples surrounded by smaller temples - a grid style that is observed to varying degrees in Hindu temples in Angkor Wat, Parambaran and South India.
The largest surviving Saiva temple is Khandarya Mahadeva, while the largest surviving Vaishnava group includes Chaturbhuja and Ramachandra.
Kandarya Mahadeva temple plan is 109 ft in length by 60 ft, and rises 116 ft above ground and 88 ft above its own floor. The central padas are surrounded by three rows of sculptured figures, with over 870 statues, most being half life size (2.5 to 3 feet). The spire is a self repeating fractal structure.
TEMPLE NAME - DEITY - YEAR COMPLETED
Chausath Yogini - Devi, 64 Yoginis - 885
Brahma - Vishnu - 925
Lalgun Mahadev - Shiva - 900
Matangeshwar - Shiva - 1000
Varaha - Vishnu - 950
Lakshmana - Vaikuntha Vishnu - 939
Parshvanath - Parshvanath - 954
Visvanatha - Shiva - 999
Devi Jagadambi - Devi, Parvati - 1023
Chitragupta - Sun, Chitragupta - 1023
Kandariya Mahadeva - Shiva - 1029
Vamana - Vamana - 1062
Adinath Jain Temple - Rishabha - 1027
Javeri - Vishnu - 1090
Chaturbhuja - Vishnu - 1110
Duladeo (Duladeva) - Shiva - 1125
Ghantai - Jain Tirthankara - 960
Vishnu-Garuda - Vishnu - 1000
Ganesha - Shiva - 1000
Hanuman - Hanuman - 922
Mahishasuramardini - Devi - 995
ARTS AND SCULPTURE
The Khajuraho temples feature a variety of art work, of which 10% is sexual or erotic art outside and inside the temples. Some of the temples that have two layers of walls have small erotic carvings on the outside of the inner wall. Some scholars suggest these to be tantric sexual practices. Other scholars state that the erotic arts are part of Hindu tradition of treating kama as an essential and proper part of human life, and its symbolic or explicit display is common in Hindu temples. James McConnachie, in his history of the Kamasutra, describes the sexual-themed Khajuraho sculptures as "the apogee of erotic art":
"Twisting, broad-hipped and high breasted nymphs display their generously contoured and bejewelled bodies on exquisitely worked exterior wall panels. These fleshy apsaras run riot across the surface of the stone, putting on make-up, washing their hair, playing games, dancing, and endlessly knotting and unknotting their girdles . . Beside the heavenly nymphs are serried ranks of griffins, guardian deities and, most notoriously, extravagantly interlocked maithunas, or lovemaking couples."
The temples have several thousand statues and art works, with Kandarya Mahadeva temple alone decorated with over 870. Some 10% of these iconographic carvings contain sexual themes and various sexual poses. A common misconception is that, since the old structures with carvings in Khajuraho are temples, the carvings depict sex between deities; however the kama arts represent diverse sexual expressions of different human beings. The vast majority of arts depict various aspects the everyday life, mythical stories as well as symbolic display of various secular and spiritual values important in Hindu tradition. For example, depictions show women putting on makeup, musicians making music, potters, farmers, and other folks in their daily life during the medieval era. These scenes are in the outer padas as is typical in Hindu temples.
There is iconographic symbolism embedded in the arts displayed in Khajuraho temples. Core Hindu values are expressed in multitude of ways. Even the Kama scenes, when seen in combination of sculptures that precede and follow, depict the spiritual themes such as moksha. In the words of Stella Kramrisch,
This state which is “like a man and woman in close embrace” is a symbol of moksa, final release or reunion of two principles, the essence (Purusha) and the nature (Prakriti).
— Stella Kramrisch, 1976
The Khajuraho temples represent one expression of many forms of arts that flourished in Rajput kingdoms of India from 8th through 10th century CE. For example, contemporary with Khajuraho were the publications of poems and drama such as Prabodhacandrodaya, Karpuramanjari, Viddhasalabhanjika and Kavyamimansa. Some of the themes expressed in these literary works are carved as sculpture in Khajuraho temples. Some sculptures at the Khajuraho monuments dedicated to Vishnu include the Vyalas, which are hybrid imaginary animals with lions body, and are found in other Indian temples. Some of these hybrid mythical art work include Vrik Vyala (hybrid of wolf and lion) and Gaja Vyala (hybrid of elephant and lion). These Vyalas may represent syncretic, creative combination of powers innate in the two.
TOURISM AND CULTURAL EVENTS
The temples in Khajuraho are broadly divided into three parts : the Eastern group, the Southern Group and the Western group of temples of which the Western group alone has the facility of an Audio guided tour wherein the tourists are guided through the seven eight temples. There is also an audio guided tour developed by the Archaeological Survey of India which includes a narration of the temple history and architecture.
The Khajuraho Dance Festival is held every year in February. It features various classical Indian dances set against the backdrop of the Chitragupta or Vishwanath Temples.
The Khajuraho temple complex offers a light and sound show every evening. The first show is in English language and the second one in Hindi. It is held in the open lawns in the temple complex, and has received mixed reviews.
The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Development has set up kiosks at the Khajuraho railway station, with tourist officers to provide information for Khajuraho visitors.
WIKIPEDIA
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West Point cadets assigned to Companies 5th - 8th of Cadet Field Training Leadership Training Program took on the Bull Run Water Confidence Course, June 23, West Point N.Y. Each cadet will attempt the course that is comprised of two phases, slide for life and beam walk-rope drop. Beginning next week the Class of 2014 will go through Cadet Field Training that is approximately four weeks under the tutelage of their cadet cadre. Photo by Tommy Gilligan/West Point Public Affairs.
Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) provide ceremonial support during an Full Honor Arrival Ceremony held in honor of the President of the Republic of Korea Yoon Suk Yeo, on Joint Base Andrews Airforce Base, Va., April 24, 2023. Following the ceremony, President Yeo participated in an Army Full Honor Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown, hosted by Maj. Gen. Allan M. Pepin, commanding general, Joint Task Force-National Capital Region and U.S. Army Military District of Washington April 25, 2023. Both ceremonies were a part of President Yeo's official visit to the United States. (U.S. Army photo by Cpl. Gabriel Bacchus)
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On March 27, 2003, a soldier assigned to A Company 2/505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division provides security while the unit searches for a large cache of weapons in the Kohi Sofi region of Afghanistan. The soldiers are tasked to locate the weapons which could be ultimately be used against U.S. Forces personnel deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Milton H. Robinson) (Released)
To learn more about living and serving in Korea with the US Army, visit our official website at: imcom.korea.army.mil
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The Morning Calm Weekly command information newspaper is available online at imcom.korea.army.mil
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About this image: Operation Enduring Freedom. A Department of Defense Image Collection.
These images are generally cleared for release and are considered in the public domain. Request credit be given the Department of Defense and individual photographer.
To learn more about living and serving in Korea with the US Army, visit our official website at: imcom.korea.army.mil
Whether you are fresh off of active-duty, a military spouse or a seasoned professional, you will find a career with U.S. Army in Korea both challenging and inspiring. If you ready to join an award winning team and embark on the adventure of a lifetime, you can learn more about living and working in Korea online: imcom.korea.army.mil
Photos from the US Army in Korea can be viewed online at www.flickr.com/imcomkorea
The Morning Calm Weekly command information newspaper is available online at imcom.korea.army.mil
Published for those serving in the Republic of Korea - an assignment of choice.
About this image: Operation Enduring Freedom. A Department of Defense Image Collection.
These images are generally cleared for release and are considered in the public domain. Request credit be given the Department of Defense and individual photographer.
To learn more about living and serving in Korea with the US Army, visit our official website at: imcom.korea.army.mil
Whether you are fresh off of active-duty, a military spouse or a seasoned professional, you will find a career with U.S. Army in Korea both challenging and inspiring. If you ready to join an award winning team and embark on the adventure of a lifetime, you can learn more about living and working in Korea online: imcom.korea.army.mil
Photos from the US Army in Korea can be viewed online at www.flickr.com/imcomkorea
The Morning Calm Weekly command information newspaper is available online at imcom.korea.army.mil
Published for those serving in the Republic of Korea - an assignment of choice.
About this image: Operation Enduring Freedom. A Department of Defense Image Collection.
These images are generally cleared for release and are considered in the public domain. Request credit be given the Department of Defense and individual photographer.
Troopers assigned to Eagle Troop, 2nd Squadron, 2d Cavalry Regiment conduct foot patrols and convoy maneuvers with their Stryker Combat Vehicles while participating in their unit's Squad Tactical Exercise during Allied Spirit IV, being held at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC,) located in Hohenfels, Germany, Jan. 20, 2016. The purpose of the training during Allied Spirit IV is to showcase JMRC's world-class facility while highlighting its ability to train U.S. Soldiers to communicate and work alongside their NATO Allies in a realistic environment. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. William A. Tanner)
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A U.S. Army Solder assigned to 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 28th Infantry Division, Pennsylvania Army National Guard, provides security behind an M2 machine gun while conducting defensive operations during Decisive Action Rotation 18-09 at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., Aug. 5, 2018. Decisive Action Rotations at the NTC ensure Army Brigade Combat Teams remain versatile, responsive, and consistently available for current and future contingencies. (U.S. Army photo by Pvt. Angel Sanchez, Operations Group, National Training Center)
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Sprinkle Jr.’s son, David Sprinkle, received the flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released)