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Odisha Part 9 : The Vaital Temple, Bhubaneshwar

The Vaital temple is of the many intriguing temples in Bhubaneshwar. To begin with, the structure itself resembles a South-Indian temple more than the typical Kalingan style that we see everywhere else in Odisha. The temple has been dated to the last quarter of the 8 th century CE. Further , unlike most of the temples in Bhubaneshwar, this temple is not dedicated to Lord Shiva. Inside the sanctum is one of the deities who is very rarely seen in a sanctum – Chamunda, along with the Saptamatrikas. This is evidently a Shakta shrine. However, the presence of Lakulisha on the vimana indicates the connection with the Pasupata sect, which is most prevalent in this region during this time period. Further, the name of the temple – ‘Vaital’, comes from the word ‘ vetala’ , referring to spirits, which were invoked by tantrics to attain siddhis. Thus, this temple is an amalgamation of Pasupata and Shakta philosophy, with a strong emphasis on tantric rituals, and this is reflected in the iconogra...
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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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