lord siva temple

About lord siva temple

Lingaraj Temple stands as a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture, believed to date from the late eleventh century, though some portions may originate from the sixth century. The temple complex spans 520 by 465 feet and comprises four main structures: the sanctum, the entrance hall (mandap), the dancing hall (Natya Shala), and the hall of offerings (Bhoga Mandap). The main deity is a granite Shiva Linga measuring eight feet in diameter, placed on a platform eight inches above ground and bathed daily with water, milk, and bhang. The temple's outer walls display elaborate sculptural ornamentation featuring birds, beasts, flowers, deities, and human figures in various poses, representing the pinnacle of Hindu decorative architecture. Within the vast walled compound stand approximately 150 smaller votive shrines. The eastern entrance, known as the Simhadwara or Lions' Gate, provides access to this sacred space. The tower dominates the surrounding landscape and remains visible from considerable distances. Adjacent to the temple lies the sacred Bindu Sagar lake with a central island housing lesser shrines, where the deity is brought annually for ritual ablutions.

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