Marines, assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), embark a CH-53E Super Stallion, assigned to the “Flying Tigers” of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262, on the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) during an air assault exercise in support of amphibious integration training (AIT). AIT is designed to integrate all elements of the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group (BHR ESG) and 31st MEU to test their ability to plan for and execute mission essential tasks. Bonhomme Richard, flagship of the BHR ESG, with embarked 31st MEU, is on a routine patrol, operating in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to enhance warfighting readiness and posture forward as a ready-response force for any type of contingency.

Soldiers assigned to the U.S. Army Drill Team and the U.S. Army Fife and Drum Corps perform for members of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) International Burn Camp at the Fort Myer Fire Station, Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va., Sept. 28, 2022. The IAFF Burn Camp is dedicated to helping young burn survivors overcome the challenges they face everyday.

(U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Laura Stephens)

Members assigned to Charlie Squadron, Asymmetric Warfare Group (AWG), conducts Pre-Mission Training (PMT) designed to enhance advisory assistants to Brigade Combat Teams and lethality at Fort A.P. Hill, Va, Mar. 11, 2019.

Pre-Mission Training ensures Operational Advisors, Technical Advisors and Enablers are trained and proficient in marksmanship; mobility; communication; medical; driver’s training; C-IED; sUAS; and heavy weapon operations in order to deploy in support of AWG’s missions.

AWG provides global operational advisory support to U.S. Army forces to rapidly transfer current threat based observations and solutions (TTPs) to tactical and operational Army commanders in order to defeat emerging asymmetric threats and enhance multi-domain effectiveness.

Bottom line, AWG advises blue forces (BLUFOR) on best practices across a range of military operations with current and relevant information while scouting threat TTPs and gaining context of operational environments to support the fielded force and help units win.

Photo: AWG

Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 15th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division attach an M119A3 howitzer to a CH-47 Chinook helicopter while incorporating air assault sling load operations into battery level gunnery certification, November 19, 2019, at Fort Drum, New York. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Paige Behringer)

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)

Spc. Ilies Benaiche, assigned to Bravo Company 642 ASB, runs for the “sprint, drag carry” portion of the Army Combat Fitness Test while competing in the Best Warrior Competition at the Camp Smith Training Site, Apr. 6-8, 2022. This rigorous and physically demanding course challenges Soldiers from across the state in events such as physical fitness, land navigation, warrior tasks, essay writing, and weapon qualification. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Jordan Sivayavirojna)

panorama from town to base

U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to 4TH Battalion, 17TH Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, Texas, prepare to engage enemy elements while conducting a patrol during Decisive Action Rotation 19-01 at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., Sept. 28, 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. Brooke Davis, Operations Group, National Training Center)

U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to 4TH Battalion, 17TH Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, Texas, engage enemy forces in the distance during Decisive Action Rotation 19-01 at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., Sept. 28, 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. Brooke Davis, Operations Group, National Training Center)

Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), and the Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington, participate in the MDW Best Squad Competition at Fort A.P. Hill, Va. and Fort McNair, Washington, D.C., July 31 to Aug. 5, 2022. Soldiers were tested on patrol lanes, weapons lanes, medical lanes, and a board over the course of the five-day competition.

(U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Josue Patricio)

Marines assigned to the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (26th MEU) stand armed watch on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) while transiting the Suez Canal on April 5, 2013. Kearsarge is the flagship for the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and, with the embarked 26th MEU, is deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Thomas Henderson)

Assignment-2

Rules followed

1. One third

Troopers assigned to 4th Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment, along with their families and friends, participated in their unit's Family Fun Day at the Children Youth Service's Sports Complex, located on Rose Barracks, Germany, Nov. 12, 2015. Families from the squadron took part in sporting games, pony rides, a baked goods sale and more as they celebrated the unit's return from their most recent rotation to Hungary in support of Atlantic Resolve. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. William A. Tanner/released)

Assignment-3 Porch stories @ Baaj

1/2 yard 60"

Location: Purple and blue bin

Dragoon Troopers assigned to 4th Squadron, 2d Cavalry Regiment team up with Dutch Soldiers assigned to the 42nd Battle Group to take on the Joint Multinational Readiness Center's Opposing Force in a combined arms battle during Allied Spirit I at Hohenfels Training Area, Germany, Jan. 26, 2015. Allied Spirit allows allies and partners to connect personally, professionally, technically and tactically to create stronger, more capable forces. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Thomas F. Johnson Jr.)

Fat quarter

Location: TBD needs to go into indigo box

Assignment - 1 : Life @ Nandigram

U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to the 4TH Battalion, 17TH Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, Texas, scan for and identify enemy elements during Decisive Action Rotation 19-01 at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., Oct. 1, 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. Brooke Davis, Operations Group, National Training Center)

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., Nov. 29, 2017. During the ceremony over 30 Soldiers assigned to the Military District of Washington / Joint Force Headquarters National Capital Region retired after more 640 years of combined service to the U.S. Army. (U.S. Army photos by Sgt. George Huley)

Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and The U.S. Army Band, “Pershing’s Own,” provid ceremonial support for a Department of the Army retirement ceremony at Conmy Hall on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va., on June 23, 2022. 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, Soldiers from across the Army retired with a collective total of over 1,200 years of service.

(U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Josue Patricio)

Troopers assigned to Fox Troop, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment, stage their vehicles as they prepare to participate in the unit's Sarmis '15 Combined Arms Live-Fire Exercise at the Cincu Training Area, Romania, June 3, 2015. During the exercise, the unit engaged in multiple forms of training consisting of the breaching of a roadway, tactically assaulting several different objectives, and the firing of live muntions at down range targets in tandem with long range air support from A-10 Thunderbolt IIs belonging to the 354th Fighter Squadron located in Campia Turzii, Romania, all in support of their NATO Allies and Operation Atlantic Resolve-South. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. William A. Tanner/released)

More than 600 Airmen assigned to the 320th Training Squadron graduated from Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, July 7-8, 2022. Col. Catherine Barrington, 90th Missile Wing commander, reviewed the ceremony. (U.S. Air Force photo by C Arce)

FORT IRWIN, Calif. - U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to Headquarters & Headquarters Troop, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, stage water and fuel cans during Decisive Action Rotation 15-02 at the National Training Center here, Nov. 10, 2014. Decisive action rotations ensure brigade combat teams remain versatile, responsive and consistently available for the current fight and unforeseen future contingencies. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Richard W. Jones Jr., Operations Group, National Training Center)

A U.S. Army Soldier assigned to 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, Texas, performs weapon maintenance in preparation for rollout at the start of Decisive Action Rotation 18-08 at National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., June 2, 2018. Decisive Action Rotations at the NTC ensure Army BCTs remain versatile, responsive, and consistently available for current and future contingencies. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Sasha Parrott, Operations Group, National Training)

NAVAL BASE GUAM (April 29, 2020) - Sailors assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) embark the ship after weeks of cleaning and essential watch standing. Thousands of Sailors from Theodore Roosevelt were moved to local hotels in an effort to implement an aggressive mitigation strategy to minimize the spread of COVID-19 and protect the health of the Sailors. Theodore Roosevelt's essential watch standers and cleaning team conducted a crew swap April 29, turning over a clean ship to a COVID negative crew after completion of their off-ship quarantine or isolation. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Jordan E. Gilbert) 200429-M-RB959-1149

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U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to 4TH Battalion, 17TH Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, Texas, engage enemy forces in the distance with an FGM-148 Javelin during Decisive Action Rotation 19-01 at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., Sept. 28, 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. Brooke Davis, Operations Group, National Training Center)

Personnel have assigned equipment closets at the Kawishiwi Ranger Station

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service (FS) Superior National Forest (NF) Kawishiwi Ranger District Office and Ranger Station in Ely, MN, on March 1, 2018. The visitor center features an interpretive center about the land, wildlife and history of the forest area. The building is a LEED (Leadership Environmental Energy Design) Silver certified facility. Superior NF was established in 1909, the Superior is known for its boreal forest ecosystem, numerous clean lakes, and a colorful cultural history. Management by the USDA-Forest Service, under principles of ecosystem management and multiple use, the Forest provides for a diverse community of plants and animals as well as products for human needs. The concept of "all lands" management maintains strong partnerships and collaboration across the landscape. Popular recreational activities include fishing, hunting, camping, canoeing, swimming, hiking, snowmobiling, cross country skiing and ice fishing. Superior NF System is 2,174,993 acres. USDA Photo by Lance Cheung.

Paratroopers assigned to the British 16 Air Assault Brigade conducts an assault on Freedom City as the culminating event for Combined Joint Operational Access Exercise 15-01 on Fort Bragg, N.C., April 18, 2015. More than 3,500 American and British paratroopers participated in CJOAX 15-01, a major milestone in the 82nd Airborne Division's interoperability program. The goal of the program is to seamlessly integrate a U.K. Brigade into the Division, allowing the two units to operate quickly and effectively in the event they were to deploy as a part of a multinational crisis response force. (82nd Airborne Division photo by Staff Sgt. Jason Hull/Released)

Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) provide ceremonial support in an Armed Forces Full Honor Arrival Ceremony in honor of Gen. Bipin Rawat, Chief of Defense Staff of the Indian Armed Forces, on Whipple Field at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Virginia, September 30, 2021. Immediately following the ceremony, Rawat participated in an Armed Forces Full Honor Wreath Laying Ceremony hosted by Maj. Gen. Allan M. Pepin, commanding general, Joint Task Force-National Capital Region and U.S. Army Military District of Washington. Both ceremonies were a part of Rawat’s official visit to the United States. (U.S. Army photos by Sgt. Nicholas T. Holmes and Spc. Laura Stephens)

Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), gathered to watch “Heroes and Voices,” a concert put on by the U.S. Army Band at Comny Hall on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Virginia, September 11, 2018. The concert contained music by the band, videos, and live singing performances which captured the Army’s origins and impact on our history to include defending freedom and winning the nation’s wars. (U.S. Army photos by Spc. Lane Hiser)

F4F-3 BuNo 2532 assigned to VMF-221 in May 1942.

"On the morning of June 4, 1942, Captain McCarthy and I were preparing to land after a routine patrol we received a message from radio telling of enemy planes approaching the island from a bearing of 310o true at a distance of approximately 35 miles.

"As we were very short on fuel, we landed immediately, serviced our ships and took off.

"We were at 8,000 feet heading for the enemy bombers which were around 12,000 or 15,000 feet when we were attacked by eight 00 Fighters. We were immediately broken up by the first pass, and from than on we were fighting singly.

"Captain McCarthy shot down one fighter immediately, and I shot one down on his tail.

"I lost sight of Captain McCarthy shortly after due to the fact that I had three 00 Fighters on my tail. Being unable to out maneuver them, I attacked a dive bomber that was leaving the area of Eastern Island. I fired a short burst and the dive bomber (Aichi 99) rolled over and crashed in the ocean.

"By this time my tanks were all leaking badly and the fighters were shooting my plane up very effectively. I managed to stay low on the water and get back to the field safely.

"I observed two F2A-3's shot down during the conflict, one pilot balled out and was strafed.

"The 00 Fighter is by far the most maneuverable plane that exists at the present time. You cannot compare them with our service type ships. The 00 Fighter is apparently very strong in construction, being able to withstand as much stress and strain as our own planes. The Japanese planed seem to be very vulnerable if you are fortunate enough to bring your guns to bear.

"I expended a total of about 20 rounds out of each gun."

Corry's citation accompanying his award of the Navy Cross reads:

"The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Roy A. Corry (0-7540), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Squadron Commander and a Pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-ONE (VMF-221), Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO (MAG-22), Naval Air Station, Midway, during operations of the U.S. Naval and Marine Forces against the invading Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942. Delivering a dauntless and aggressive assault against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes, Second Lieutenant Corry shot down one Navy Aichi Type dive bomber and one OO Isento KI Navy Fighter, thereby aiding in the disruption of enemy plans and lessening the effectiveness of their attack. His courageous determination, maintained at great personal risk against tremendous odds, contributed materially to the success of our forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Paratroopers assigned to the British 16 Air Assault Brigade conducts an assault on Freedom City as the culminating event for Combined Joint Operational Access Exercise 15-01 on Fort Bragg, N.C., April 18, 2015. More than 3,500 American and British paratroopers participated in CJOAX 15-01, a major milestone in the 82nd Airborne Division's interoperability program. The goal of the program is to seamlessly integrate a U.K. Brigade into the Division, allowing the two units to operate quickly and effectively in the event they were to deploy as a part of a multinational crisis response force. (82nd Airborne Division photo by Staff Sgt. Jason Hull/Released)

Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and service members from across the military provide support during a Presidential Armed Forces Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony

at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, as part of the 69th annual National Veterans Day Observance at

Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Nov. 11, 2022. Vice President Kamala Harris laid the wreath, accompanied by senior military leaders, Jill Biden, First Lady, and Doug Emhoff, Second Gentleman, during the ceremony.

(U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Josue Patricio)

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 28, 2022. 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, 50 Soldiers from across the Army retired with a collective total of nearly 1292 years of service. (U.S. Army photos by Sgt. Laura Stephens)

Troopers assigned to the Regimental Support Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment along with Soldiers from the Armed Forces Network-Bavaria and the 615th Military Police Company, participated in the Warrior Transition Battalion's Wheelchair Basketball Tournament at Tower Barracks, located in Grafenwoehr, Germany, Nov. 6, 2015. The Soldiers showed camaraderie as well their appreciation for wounded Soldiers by competing with each other in a friendly 5-on-5 basketball tournament during the unit's celebration of their Warrior Care month. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. William A. Tanner/released)

Paratroopers assigned to the British 16 Air Assault Brigade conducts an assault on Freedom City as the culminating event for Combined Joint Operational Access Exercise 15-01 on Fort Bragg, N.C., April 18, 2015. More than 3,500 American and British paratroopers participated in CJOAX 15-01, a major milestone in the 82nd Airborne Division's interoperability program. The goal of the program is to seamlessly integrate a U.K. Brigade into the Division, allowing the two units to operate quickly and effectively in the event they were to deploy as a part of a multinational crisis response force. (82nd Airborne Division photo by Staff Sgt. Jason Hull/Released)

Troopers assigned to Archer Battery, Field Artillery Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment, with support from a 12th Combat Aviation Brigade CH-47 Chinook Helicopter crew, conduct sling load training with M777 Howitzers during the Squadron’s Artillery Systems Cooperation Activities at the 7th Army Joint Multinational Training Command's Grafenwoehr Training Area Germany, March 21, 2016. (U.S. Army photo by Visual Information Specialist Gertrud Zach/released)

U.S. Soldiers assigned to 218th Brigade Support Battalion, South Carolina Army National Guard, from Orangeburg, S.C., pick up cots and blankets for the American Red Cross, the cots and blankets were transported to shelters around the state for people evacuating from Hurricane Florence, Sept. 13, 2018. Approximately 2,600 Soldiers and Airmen have been mobilized to prepare, respond and participate in recovery efforts as forecasters project Hurricane Florence will increase in strength with potential to be a Category 4 storm and a projected path to make landfall near the Carolinas and east coast. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Jorge Intriago).

Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) conduct Plane Side Honors for U.S. Army Cpl. Joseph Akers, 23, of Kenova, West Virginia, at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Arlington, Virginia, September 27, 2019. During WWII, Akers was killed in action at the Battle of Hürtgen Forest. Through research, historical analysis, and DNA analysis, Akers’ remains were identified by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, 74 years after his death. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Maryam Treece)

Engineers assigned to 837th Brigade Engineer Battalion, U.S. Army National Guard from Wooster, Ohio and 37th Engineer Regiment, Hungarian Defense Force ferry a Hungarian BTR-80 Armoured Personnel Carrier on a PMP Floating Bridge across the Mosoni-Duna River in Gyor, Hungary during exercise Szentes Axe 17 July 5, 2017. The Hungarian national exercise takes place June 26-July 7 to enable Saber Guardian 17 by conducting tactical bridging and water crossing operations for 2CR freedom of movement from home station into Hungary and many joint operations area locations.

(Photo by: Staff Sgt. Jennifer Bunn)

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.

_______________________________________________

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

Soldiers assigned to the 2nd "Lancer Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st "Ironhorse" Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, participated in career day at their adopted school, Joe M. Pirtle Elementary, May 2, in Belton, Texas. Two medics, a tanker, a cavalry scout, a mechanic, a sniper and a public affairs specialist spoke with students in various grades about their particular military occupational specialty. (U.S. Army Photo by Spc. Paige Behringer, 1st BCT PAO, 1st Cav. Div.)

assignment-4

photo it self tell the name - hill city dungarpur.

Assigned illustration

Freezing

Soldiers assigned to the 700th Brigade Support Battalion, 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Oklahoma Army National Guard prepare for a tactical exercise at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California, July, 16 2021. Members of the 45th IBCT are at the NTC as part of their annual training, which provides opportunities to conduct individual, squad and platoon-level tasks in austere environments in preparation for potential deployments overseas. (Oklahoma Army National Guard photo by Pfc. Emily White)