Chandellas belong to Rajput Dynasty and ruled over central India for approximately 500 years between the 9th and the 13th centuries. As they dominated most of Bundelkhand, they were also known as the Chandelas of Jejakabhukti (now called Bundelkhand). Initially, they were feudatories of Pratiharas but became independent rulers in the 10th century. They were subjected to Muslim kingdom invasions like Mahmud of Ghazni. They were recognised for their art and architecture, particularly the temples in Khajuraho. They grew in popularity as a result of the magnificently sculpted temples they built during their reign. 

Background

• Bundelkhand has always been a source of contention among the various kings and dynasties who have ruled over it.
• Previously, this province was dominated by the Gupta empire until the 5th century AD, after which it was ruled by the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty, and finally by the Chandellas.
• According to modern research, Chandellas were descended from the Gurjar, Huna, and central Asian tribes who crossed the northwest frontier and settled in this territory after fighting battles.
• They belong to the Chandravanshi lineage of Rajputs.
• Initially, the Chandellas reigned as the vassals of Gurjara-Pratiharas (Kannauj).
• Although he accepted the Pratihara suzerainty, the Chandella monarch Yashovarman became effectively independent in the 10th century.
• The Chandellas had grown into a sovereign state by the time his successor Dhanga emerged.
• As they fought battles with neighbouring dynasties, particularly the Paramaras of Malwa, their influence rose and fell.
• The Chandellas were subjected to invasions by northern Muslim kingdoms like Ghazni, beginning in the 11th century.
• Following invasions, the Chandella power effectively disappeared around the beginning of the 13th century.