Marathwada is recognized as the region of temples. From ancient times, various kings and emperors in this region have constructed temples in different periods. The temples in the Aurangabad region are exemplary pieces of art. Over a history of thousands of years, in the 11th-12th century, the Chalukya and Yadav, two dynasties, ruled over Marathwada. During their rule, these temples were built, showcasing the artistic skills. From a religious perspective, this region had a Buddhist influence from the Satavahana era, and later, the Chalukya and the Yadav were devoted to Lord Shiva. Consequently, the construction of these Shiva temples took place during their reign, and the artistic work on the temples flourished. In the surroundings of Sillod-Soygaon, the ancient Shiva temples of Nageshwar, Vadeshwar, and Murdeshwar, dedicated to Lord Shiva, hold great importance and have been well-preserved within a five-kilometer radius. ... Among these, the Vadeshwar Temple in Ambad is an outstanding example of ancient architecture. Unfortunately, due to neglect from the public and administrative apathy, these temples have suffered damage, and efforts are being made by the Department of Archaeology to preserve and restore them. Aurangabad to Ambad is around 90 km, and to reach Ambad from Aurangabad, one has to travel through the Sillod town. Beyond Sillod, Mangrul Phata, about 22 km away, leads to Ambad village. Ambad is a small village inhabited by a community of the Ajanta Hill tribes. In this village, there are ancient Shiva temples dating back to the 12th century. The temple complex consists of a Shiva Lingam in the sanctum sanctorum of the main Garbhagriha. The outside walls of the temple have intricately carved figures and various erotic sculptures. The main deity in the Garbhagriha is a Shiva Lingam facing north, and there are four to five steps leading to the Garbhagriha. On the main door of the Garbhagriha, a stone arch has been beautifully carved. The temple is adorned with various types of small and large sculptures on the exterior courtyard. The distinctive feature of this temple is the Shrungar Shilpa, resembling the sculptures found in Khajuraho. The small-sized sculptures, initially carved on slabs, were later embedded on the temple walls, giving a unique appearance. There are various arguments about how the architecture of this temple could have been in the past. To witness the temple, at least two hours should be spared to explore it thoroughly. Apart from Ambad, the nearby village of Murdeshwar also has ancient temples.
© Suresh Nimbalkar