subject: The Great Temples Of Yore [print this page] With curvilinear and convex inner sanctums called the Deuls and magnificently built entrance chambers called the Jagamohana, the temples showcase the skill and dexterity of the citys builders.
A short trip to the Khurda district will take one to the Mukteswar temple. In the true Orissa secular tradition, this temple serves as a holy spot for Hindus, Buddhists and Jains. The exquisite Kalinga architecture is expressed here in glorious detail, with an elaborately ornate arched gateway, and intricate carvings on the walls. The red sandstone which was used to build this temple lends a distinctive and peaceful atmosphere. Fables from the Panchatantra are depicted on the walls along with beautiful reliefs of the female form. The blend of ancient and modern architecture, the delicate artistry all combine to transport the observer to a simpler but more creative period in the history of Bhubaneswar. Women from all walks of life visit this temple, for its tank is said to have mystical powers that can cure illnesses like infertility. Truly an architectural gem.
One can also visit the Kedar Gowri temple. Situated near the Mukteswar temple, this is believed to be an exceptionally holy spot that liberates one from the eternal torment of birth and death cycle.
One just needs to gaze upon Bhubaneswars skyline to chance upon the Lingaraj temple. With a spire that reaches to a height of over 50 meters, it provides an arresting sight for the discerning tourist. One enters the temple through a massive gate that is guarded by a pair of intimidating, yet splendid, lions. An awe inspiring sight then meets the eye, since there is not one but more than 60 temples that surround the primary temple. A massive black stone, called the Linga represents the main deity Lingaraj, or Lord Shiva. One can also find a temple dedicated to his consort, the goddess Parvati.
The unique history and culture of Orissa is best exemplified in the Rajrani temple. This so called temple has surely no equal anywhere in the world. Devoted to the worship of the female form, one finds exceptionally sensual carvings and reliefs of women and couples adorning the sandstone walls of this temple. A testament to the dexterity of the artists, this place remains in the minds eye forever.
A visit to Bhubaneswar would be incomplete if one were to miss seeing the best preserved temple in the city. The Parasurameswar temple boasts of an architecture that could rival just about anything built today. As a shining centerpiece, it has a Linga that has a thousand smaller lingas carved into it. One marvels at the staggering amount of effort that had gone into erecting this structure. A product of the 7th century, it remains an enduring example of one of Orissas golden eras.
With a rectangularly shaped Deul, the Vaital Deul temple immediately strikes the eye as being distinct from other temples. Paying homage to the goddess Chamunda, this temple has a rich, if gory history of tantric practices and rituals involving animal sacrifices. A must see destination for the history buff, this is one of the few Shakti shrines in India.
Ramayana, one of Indias best known epics, is depicted in magnificent detail on the walls of the Svarnajaleswar temple. One can spend hours perusing the carvings as the walls come to life and narrate a story that is universally known but always relevant.
Rarely, if ever, does one come across a character as singular as King Ashoka. Winner of numerous long and bloody wars, he finally realized what he had become and horrified, embraced the banner of peace. In a delightful slice of history, he is believed to have built a shrine to the Buddhist religion at the very site where he had his epiphany. Known as Ashokas rock edict, this monument pays homage to the ideals of peace and brotherhood. The summit on the tallest hill contains a Pagoda known as the peace pagoda. Built in collaboration with the Japanese, this is one of the most serene and beautiful places in Bhubaneswar.
In architectural parlance, the word Hypaethral denotes a structure that lacks a roof. The Yogini temple is a perfect example of a Hypaethral structure. This temple is considered sui generis, for it is one of the few temples that are dedicated to the worship of the Yogini. The rich mythology of Orissa has an entire chapter that relates the story of the Yoginis. The prevailing belief is that these were goddess like beings created by Lord Shiva to battle demons. This temple is one of only four Yogini temples in India. As in the other temples all sixty four Yoginis are represented in the walls of this temple. A Yogini is also a master practitioner of the mystical arts and yoga and this makes this temple absolutely unique amongst all the temples in Bhubaneswar. Aesthetically sublime, this monument stands out for its exclusive architecture and its colorful mythology.
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