English: The Narmada mandir complex is a collection of temples from all major Hindu traditions, in different styles to revere the start of Narmada river. It is the primary pilgrimage destination for Hindus visiting Amarkantak as a religious destination. It is also referred to as Narmada udgam temple.
The site finds mention in the Hindu Puranas. It is believed to be the place where rishis and saints of Hinduism meditated. These include Brighu, Maikal, Vyas, Kabir and others. The documented history, however, is unavailable. It is unclear when the oldest temple in this complex was built. From the style and artwork, the oldest temple here is from the 11th century. This site likely saw temples being rebuilt and expanded by many dynasties. Minor inscriptions attest to dedications by kings and queens of the Kalachuris, Bhagels, Bhonsle, Maharani Ahilya Devi and others. Wealthy pilgrims from south Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat have also gifted structures and services. The beheaded statues of Lakhan and Uddal here mark the damaged caused to this site and region during the Aurangzeb period.
The temples complex has a torana (gateway) for entrance. Inside, all temples are painted in white and they surround the pool of water that marks the start of Narmada river's journey to western peninsular coast of India. The site has historic as well as modern era temples. The site also preserves many ruins, the beheaded stone statues, bronze statues such as of Nataraja in Tamil Nadu style, Surya with his chariot in Rajasthan style, and others – all of these are spots for the devout to offer prayers.
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Captions
A large group of Hindu temples that mark the start of the Narmada river