ABSTRACT
The Chandela Rājputs established themselves in the region in the ninth century. Descended from the indigenous tribes of the Bhārs and the Gonds, they sought to raise their status by propagating myths that connected them with the lunar dynasty of ancient Kshatriyas. The first Chandela ruler, Nannuka, had his seat of authority at Khajurāho. He was followed by Vākpati, under whose sons Jayaśakti and Vijayaśakti the family rose to prominence. The Chandelas seem to have initially accepted the suzerainty of the Pratihāras. Harśadeva (c. 900-25) added greatly to the status of the family. His son Lakśavarman, also known as Yaśovarman (c. 925-50), was a powerful ruler who built the great Lakśmana Temple at Khajurāho.
