History of the Lingaraja Temple

The Lingaraja Temple is a prominent ancient temple in Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha. It is a Hindu temple in the honour of Lord Shiva. It was constructed through the efforts of King Jajati Keshari around the 10th century and finished during the reign of King Lalatendu Keshari in the 11th century. The central spire of the temple is 54 metres high. It is constructed of red stone and is a perfect model that exemplifies the architectural style known as the Kalinga style of architecture. The temple is a representation of rich Indian culture. Numerous devotees from various parts of the globe come to enjoy the temple’s spiritual bliss.

The Lingaraja Temple

The Lingaraj temple is among India’s most well-known structures and is thought to be approximately 1,000 years old. It serves as the main tourist attraction in Bhubaneswar city and is one of its most popular tourist destinations. The temple’s primary deity is an amalgamation of Lord Vishnu and Shiva and represents their combined power. Hari is another name for Lord Vishnu, while Hara is another name for Lord Shiva. Together, they combine to form Hari Hara–the central deity. The temple’s lingam is bathed daily with water, milk, and bhang. The temple is lined with idols of Lord Kartika, Ganesha, and Goddess Parvati, set in various directions. The statues are beautifully decorated with colourful draperies.

History of the Lingaraj Temple

It is believed that certain portions of the temple were constructed in the 6th century, and were renovated and furnished in the 11th century. This temple is also mentioned in Brahma Purana, an important Hindu text. It is believed that the Jagannath cult began to take shape while the temple was being constructed.

Architecture and Structure

The temple is constructed in the Kalinga tradition using red sandstone and laterite, and its elevation stands about 55 metres. Several small shrines dedicated to worship various gods and goddesses are found within the temple. Ancient 7th-century scriptures have been carved into the temple walls. The temple can be entered via the east-facing Lion’s Gate, which is painted white and has statues of a pair of lions guarding the gate. As a result of the optical illusion, the temple appears bigger.

Festivals and Celebrations

Shivaratri, which falls during the month of Falgun, is a major celebration at the Lingaraj temple. During Shivaratri, a large number of devotees visit the temple and observe a fast, breaking it only after a Mahadeep or lamp is lit at the temple’s entrance. The festival is celebrated in the evening. The Chandan Yatra or Chandan ceremony, also a major festival held at the temple, is celebrated over a period of 22 days, during which gods and devotees are blessed with sandalwood paste. A communal meal, dance, and installation takes place inside the temple. Ashokashtami or Rukana Rath Yatra, celebrated in the month of Chaitra on Shukla Ashtami, is another spectacular celebration at Lingaraj temple in which a large chariot believed to carry several gods and goddesses takes on a journey to Rameswara Temple.

How To Reach Lingaraj Temple

You can travel via rail, flight, or road to get to Lingaraj temple, located 4 km from Bhubaneswar Airport. Tourists can avail various forms of public transport to reach Lingaraj temple from the airport or railway station.

Conclusion 

The Lingaraj temple, built in the 11th century, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is constructed in the Kalinga and Oriya tradition. Built by Somvanshi King Yayati, the temple is the largest in Bhubaneswar. The Lingaraja temple was originally constructed out of red sandstone.