Sas-Bahu Temple

The Sas-Bahu Temple is located at a distance of 23 km from Udaipur, on National Highway 8 in Nagda town. Dating back to the 10th century, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is made of two structures, one by a mother-in-law and another, by a daughter-in-law.

Carved lintels and a multi-lobed arch in its middle mark the entrance of the temple. Both the structures have an altar, a mandapa (columned prayer hall) with projections and a porch.

Comparatively smaller than the temple of Sas, the 'Bahu' temple has an octagonal ceiling, which is adorned with eight intricately carved female figures. In its front, the 'Sas' temple has a torana (archway).

It is widely believed that the image of Lord Vishnu was swung from the torana along with hymns in the praise of the lord on ceremonial occasions. Facing towards the east direction, both the temples are constructed on a common platform.

Incidents of Ramayana adorn the temple. Made in two steps, the sculptures are arranged in such a way that one encircles the other. Images of Lord Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu are carved on one platform.

On the other platform, images of Rama, Balarama and Parashurama have been carved. Built by King Mahapala in the 10th century, the complex includes a cluster of temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu.