The Masroor Temple Complex: Hindu Cosmology in Stone

Abstract

The article dwells upon the unique object of ancient Indian architecture — the monolithic rock temple of Masroor in Himachal Pradesh, the north-western part of India. Based on the notes of European travelers, who discovered it, and reports of British ASI staff members, the author attempts to describe this monument in detail, referring to sketches and plans, drawn at the beginning of the 20th century which to date remain the only authentic source of research on the subject. Summarizing publications of Indian and Western research scholars, the author analyses various theories regarding the probable period of its construction describes historical and religious conditions, which could contribute to undertaking such a large-scale project, and considers possible reasons for its subsequent destruction and falling into oblivion. The author draws obvious parallels between the monolithic temple of Masroor and the world-famous Cambodian temple Angkor Wat, which serves as yet another justification of the profound religious and cultural influence of India in the South-Asian region in the early medieval period. Narration is supplemented by the author’s personal impressions from several visits to the complex site and original photos of the temple.