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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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Wish you all a Merry Christmas!
From
Samhith, Shankar and Anu

When you read this, I will be travelling, first to Hampi and then to Puttaparthi, trying to get in some more places along the way. A new trip does not mean that I am through with my Tirupati posts. I have just finished with the town of Tirupati, but there is more coming up, about places around. So, keep coming here and leaving your precious comments. There can be no better gift for me than a load of comments! I shall reply to all of you when I get back!

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