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Odisha Part 10: Bhubaneshwar – the city of temples

Bhubaneshwar is often called the city of temples . It is impossible to know exactly how many temples there are, but it has been estimated that there might be over 700 temples in the city. This number, while impressive, is just a fraction of the original number, which, sometime in the 13 th century, would have been about 7000. Wikipedia has a page dedicated to the Hindu temples of Bhubaneshwar , where 93 temples are listed. All these are ancient temples, built between the 7 th and 13 th centuries CE. Bhubaneshwar was once known as Ekamra Kshetra , the sacred mango grove. We know this name from an inscription at the Ananta Vasudeva temple, which mentions the name of the place, and the main temple (that we now know as the Lingaraja temple) in the mango grove. Ananta Vasudeva Temple, with a sculpture of Trivikrama in the niche It is extremely interesting to note that the Ananta Vasudeva temple is the only temple to Lord Vishnu in this city. Varaha, Ananta Vasudeva Temple Located v...
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Vendors at Chamundi Hills

Every temple has vendors outside, selling flowers and coconuts....





Outside the temple on Chamundi Hills, there were a few more, selling items made of stone and wood...



The wooden articles were common ones, but these stone figures were beautiful!



And yes, for once, I did succumb to the temptation, and bought some too!

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  1. IndraniSeptember 19, 2013 at 11:33 AM

    I always end up buying something or other even if I don't need them . :)
    Great shots!

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    1. Anuradha ShankarSeptember 19, 2013 at 12:03 PM

      Much as I am tempted, Indrani, I usually hold myself back from buying stuff thanks to lack of space, but this time i just couldnt resist those cute little elephants and the beautiful lamp!

      Delete
  2. MridulaSeptember 19, 2013 at 2:41 PM

    I usually don't buy stuff but it is good to indulge sometimes I guess?

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    1. Anuradha ShankarSeptember 22, 2013 at 9:27 AM

      Yes, Mridula. I dont usually buy much, but these were just too beautiful! plus,we are always on the lookout for stuff from across the country to keep for our annual navaratri golu. these were perfect!

      Delete

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