Lord Shiva Temple – Santhaleswar Mahadev, Mathasuliya. Gujarat. India

This 12th-century temple was built by the Solanki rulers near Mathasuliya Village, close to the present-day town of Himmatnagar in the state of Gujarat, India. It is considered a gem of the Solanki period. The ornamentation of this east-facing temple is typical of Solanki architecture. The outer wall portrays the Goddess Chamunda, Lord Natesha, and the slaying of the demon Andhakasura in niches on the north, west, and south respectively. The lintel over the sanctum entrance is engraved with representations of the nine planets. A temple comprising two parts, sanctum and entrance porch, is classified as “Dviangi”.

The temple is located right next to the highway connecting Udaipur (Rajasthan) and Ahmedabad (Gujarat). Although the temple is partially dilapidated, it is frequented by many tourists and village folk.

This temple is depicted in watercolours on 250 GSM watercolour paper.

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