Chandella rulers (9th–13th century CE) of Bundelkhand, with Khajuraho as their capital, created a “world in stone” through sculptures marked by energy, realism, and beauty.

Resilient vigor and breadth of life in the Chandella artform

1. Dynamic Human Expression – Expressive Apsaras writing a letter, adorning themselves, removing a thorn, or gazing into a mirror (Parsvanatha temple).
2. Varied Moods – Sculptures capture joy, anxiety, indolence, and self-admiration, showing psychological depth. 
3. Erotic Sculptures – Mithuna couples at Lakshmana and Kandariya Mahadeva temples represent fertility, cosmic union, and continuity of life.
4. Dynamic Postures – Use of dvibhanga and tribhanga, giving figures a swaying, life-like rhythm (Lakshmana temple apsaras).
5. Geographical Inspiration – Hills, rivers, and forests of Bundelkhand gave Chandella art natural vigor, with temples built like mountains and compared to the Himalayas and Kailash in inscriptions.
6. Animal Vitality – Elephants at Vishvanatha temple entrance and lions, tigers, and mythical Vyala symbolize strength and vigor.
7. Political Symbolism – Monumental Varaha of Yasovarman with 675 miniature figures embodies divine power and royal victory.
8. Cultural Flourish – Panels show dancers, musicians, and temple rituals, highlighting social vibrancy (Kandariya Mahadeva temple).
9. Integration of Nature – Lotus, creepers, and birds entwined with humans mirror the lush Bundelkhand landscape.
10. Social Representation – Kings, queens, artisans, merchants, and commoners appear, making art relatable to all classes.
11. Divine-Human Unity – Nandi mandapa, apsaras, and ascetics together depict the seamless flow of life and spirituality.

Chandella artists created a universe in stone, best described by Banabhatta’s phrase “Darsit Visvarupa” – the vision of the cosmic form.