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Odisha Part 7: The Rajarani Temple, Bhubaneshwar

The Rajarani Temple in Bhubaneshwar gets its name from the stone used to build it - the red and yellow sandstone used here is locally called Rajarani. This temple was once known as the Indreshwara temple, which is mentioned in the Ekamra Purana, which tells us about the temples of Bhubaneshwar, which was then known as Ekamra Kshetra. Today, the temple stands in a well-maintained lawn, and is the only ticketed monument within the city. The temple is built in the typical Kalinga style, with the tall curvilinear shikara over the garbagruha , and a jagamohana connected to it. The temple is believed to date back to the 11 th century, and is most well known for its sculptures. The entrance to the temple has two pillars with a Naga couple protecting the sanctum, holding garlands in their hands. The base of the pillar shows 3 lions standing over 3 elephants, a typical motif in temples of this region during this period. On the other side of the pillar is a horse and rider, and the two mo...
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Coconut Trees

They form an inevitable part of the coastal skyline in Southern India, and are certainly among the most useful among trees.



It is sometimes compared to the 'Kalpavriksha' - the celestial or wish fulfilling tree, since every part of the tree is used for the benefit of mankind. Yes, I am talking about the Coconut tree.





Every part of the coconut tree is useful. South Indian cuisine would be incomplete without the coconut, and summer would be that much more difficult to bear without the always cool and refreshing coconut water. Even the kernel is used, sometimes with the firewood, but mostly as a small container. These days, we even get jewellery made from it! As to the leaf, they are not just used for roofing, but for making the house too, as you can see in this pic!


This old hut has been decorated for a festival - with two banana trees next to the door (that's another plant which is likened to the kalpavriksha!), and a new banner-like thing made with the coconut palm leaf. This apparently not just signifies celebration, but is also useful, since it strengthens the hut by adding a new layer to its wall!

Here is a close look at the palm frond plaited to make the frame....


Simple, yet beautiful, isn't it? and eco-friendly too!

I can't help feeling excited about learning everything I can, even if it is 'just' about coconut trees. Hey, anyone can study abroad these days; with so many online universities to choose from, class can be wherever you are in the world. Online schooling is in high demand, since many people want the flexibility they both offer.


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