History, Importance, Architecture, Interesting Facts and Travel Guide of Rajarani temple, Bhubaneshwar, Odisha
Rajarani Temple is one of the most renowned Hindu Temple located in capital and temple city Bhubaneshwar in Odisha. It is believed that temple was constructed in 11th Century during Somavamsi dynasty. It is not dedicated to any deity but carving of idol of Lord Shiva and Parvati on the wall are there. The temple is also called the Love Temple because of the erotic carvings of couples and women in the temple campus. Rajarani temple is built as Pancharatha style having a central Shrine called Vimana with a bada (curvilinear spire) over its roof. The temple is constructed with red and yellow sandstones which is locally popular as Rajarani. It is also believed that the temple was once the abode of Lord Shiva and well known as Indreshwar Temple or Indralingesvara named after the king lndraratha of somavamsi ruler. Now the temple campus is managed and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.
There are various scenes being imprinted in the walls of the temple having the marriage scene of Shiva, Nataraja and Parvati. It also include tall, slender, sophisticated nayikas in various roles and moods such as turning their head from an emaciated ascetic, fondling her child, holding a branch of her anklet, caressing her per bird and playing a musical instrument. The sculptures have the depth that was missing in the Mukteswara Temple. The Guardians of the eight directions project from the base of the temple in the eight directions. There are sculptures of these eight Gods, Indra, Agni, Yama, Nirriti, Varuna, Vayu, Kubera and Isana.
The government of Odisha organises a Rajarani music festival at the temple every year from 18 to 20 January. The temple focuses on three styles of classical music called Hindustani, Carnatic and Odissi which attracts the thousands of tourist and artist all around the India during this time.
Entry fee – Rs 15 for Indians and Rs 200 for Foreigners
How to reach Rajarani Temple, Bhubaneshwar, Odisha
The roads are very well connected to reach Bhubaneshwar from the major cities of Odisha. The Railway Station and the Airport both are available from Bhubaneshwar itself.
