Natesa of Rajasthan temple returns to India

News: Natesa, a rare sandstone idol has been retrieved after 22 years by the Rajasthan police after it was smuggled to the UK.

Facts:

• Natesa: It is a rare sandstone idol from the Pratihara Style of Rajasthan.
• It is originally from the Ghateswar Temple at Baroli, Rajasthan.
• Features: The sandstone Natesa figure stands tall at almost 4 ft in a rare and brilliant depiction of Shiva.A beautiful depiction of Nandi is shown behind the right leg of the Natesa icon.”

Additional Facts:

• Pratihara Style: It is a famous temple architecture belonging to the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty of Rajasthan.They ruled much of Northern India from the mid-8th to the 11th century.
• The Gurjara-Pratiharas were instrumental in containing Arab armies moving east of the Indus River.
• Important Rulers: Nagabhata Il, Mhir Bhoj and Mahenedra pal I.
• Significance: They are known for their sculptures, carved panels and open pavilion style temples. 
  • The greatest development of their style of temple building was at Khajuraho now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.