Kamleshwar Mahadev Temple

Kamleshwar Mahadev Temple is a revered Hindu temple, situated in the Lakheri town of Bundi district in Rajasthan, India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is famous as Mini Khajuraho in Bundi district, and the center of religious faith in Hadoti region.

On every Pradosha before Amavasya of every month of Hindu Calendar more than one Lakh of devotees come to the temple to take a bath in the holy pond with the darshan of Lord Shiva. Apart from various districts of Rajasthan, a large number of people come here from various districts of Madhya Pradesh for darshan.

Geography
This temple is situated in a picturesque environment of nature near the Chakan River. Dense forest is still present at this place. It is located close to Bijasan Mata Temple and Indragarh Fort.

Legend
According to the priest of the temple, once upon a time, to save Ravana from the fear of death, the saints had asked Ravana's mother to establish Atmalinga in Lanka for worshiping Shiva.To escape from death, when Ravana was taking the Atmalinga to Lanka to establish it, at the same time Lord Vishnu thought that if Ravana succeeded in this task then he would not be able to die. On this, Lord Vishnu assumed the guise of an old man and forced Ravana to remain unconscious for a long time and took the idol in his hands and placed it on the earth.Before taking the Atmalinga to Lanka, Shiva had told Ravana that if it was taken down somewhere on the way and placed on the earth, then he would not be able to pick it up again. After which Ravana could not take the Atmalinga of Shiva and since that time this Lingam is established here. According to the locals, one night King Hammiradeva had darshan of Lord Mahadev in his dream, then the king built this temple.

History
The temple is believed to have been constructed during the 12th century. Remains of ancient settlements exist around the temple. Coins of King Hammiradeva period have been found here. Earthenware and stone tools have also been found there. Due to which the antiquity of this place leads to the ancient human period. Remains of ancient importance also prove the immediate presence of early humans here. There is a living stone workshop on the hill to the right of the temple. There are incomplete statues and complete signs of carving on large boulders.Evidence of the presence of iron ore in this area also suggests that it might have been used in carving stones.

Architecture
The temple's architecture reflects the distinct Hindu temple architecture style prevalent during that period. The three types of artistic sculptures of the temple are unique examples of excellent architecture. The art depicting the philosophy of life has been carved on the stones with great detail, characterized by intricately carved stone walls, ornate pillars, and exquisite sculptures depicting mythological motifs. The temple complex comprises a sanctum (garbhagriha) housing the lingam (phallic symbol) of Lord Shiva, surrounded by a pillared hall (mandapa) and an open courtyard. The outer walls of the temple feature detailed carvings depicting various deities.

Festivals and Celebrations
The temple is a hub of religious festivities and cultural celebrations throughout the year. The most significant festival observed at the temple is Maha Shivaratri, celebrated with great fervor and devotion by devotees who offer prayers, perform rituals, and participate in religious processions. Apart from Maha Shivaratri, other festivals such as Shravan Maas (the holy month of Shravan) and Pradosha before Amavsya of the Hindu Calendar are also celebrated with enthusiasm, attracting devotees from far and wide to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.

Preservation and Conservation
Efforts are underway to preserve and conserve the temple and its surrounding heritage structures. It is worth noting that considering the architectural art in this mythological temple of the 12th century, the Archaeological Survey of India has declared it protected.