The Lingaraja Temple of Bhubaneswar

by K.S. Behera

Built in the 11th century, the temple of Lingaraja in Bhubaneswar is acclaimed as one of the finest temples of India. With its construction the Orissan temple style reached its mature phase and set the model for later temples to follow. The book, for the first time, makes an indepth study of the temple in all its aspects such as its history, architecture, sculpture, mode of worship, festivals, organization of services, etc. to understand the temple in its totality. The architectural features and religious aspects are described in the light of Orissan architectural lore and ksetra mahatmyas of Bhubaneswar. Originally conceived as a Siva temple, in course of time, it was transformed into a temple for both Siva and Visnu. With perhaps the largest concentration of temples, ranging from the 11th to the 15th centuries, the temple premises united the Siva, Sakta and Vaisnava followers and fostererd a spirit of harmony in the religious life of Orissa. The comprehensive study, lavishly illustrated, is expected to provide new insights into the appreciation of this great temple and its various aspects.