The Lingaraj temple of Bhubaneswar is one of the finest specimens of Odishan architecture and is rated as one of the architecturally sound structures in India. Recently the Odisha government has decided to give a facelift to the 11th century Lingaraj Temple, akin to its pre-350-year structural status.
Revamp of Lingaraj Temple
The efforts will be to create a spiritual and ecological ambience in and around the Lingaraj Temple. Special care is being taken to preserve the biodiversity of the sub-catchment area of Sathanur Dam, pilgrim catchment area, contiguous forest area and heritage sites.
The redevelopment plan of the peripheral area of Lingaraj Temple, known as “Ekamravan Kshetra” in Bhubaneswar, has been approved by the Central Government.
Further, the government is planning a barrier-free access between the Temple and Bindusagar lake. This is a part of the Lingaraj Temple Heritage Development Project under Ekamra plan.
Lingaraj Temple, built in the 11th century AD, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered as the largest temple of the city Bhubaneswar. It is one of the oldest temples in India.
It is believed to have been built by the Somvanshi King Yayati I. The main tower of this temple measures 180-feet in height. It is built in red stone and is a classic example of Kalinga style of architecture.
The temple is divided into four sections―Garbh Griha (sanctum sanctorum), Yajna Shala (the hall for prayers), Bhoga Mandap (the hall of offering) and the Natya Shala (hall of dance).
The sprawling temple complex has one hundred and fifty subsidiary shrines. Lingaraj is referred to as ‘Swayambhu” – self-originated Shivling.
Another important aspect of the temple is that it signifies the syncretisation of Shaivism and Vaishnavism sects in Odisha.
The temple is out of bounds for non-Hindus. The other attraction of the temple is the Bindusagar Lake, located in the north side of the temple.
On the western banks of Bindusagar, lies the garden of Ekamra Van named after the Hindu mythological texts where Bhubaneswar the capital city of Odisha was referred as Ekamra Van or a forest of a single mango tree.