Bishnupur Shyam Rai Temple - West Bengal

Address

Bishnupur Shyam Rai Temple – West Bengal

Bishnupur, Bankura District

West Bengal 722122

Moolavar

Lord Vishnu

Introduction

The Shyam Rai Temple, also known as the Panch Chura Temple, is a remarkable temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Bishnupur Town, Bankura District, West Bengal, India.

Historical Background: The Shyam Rai Temple was built in the year 1643 CE by Malla King Raghunath Singh. It holds a significant place in the historical and architectural heritage of Bishnupur.
Pancha Ratna Style: This temple is one of the finest examples of the Pancha Ratna architectural style, characterized by five spires or sikharas. The term “Panch Chura” translates to “five spires,” reflecting the temple’s architectural design.
Architectural Features: The Shyam Rai Temple is renowned for its remarkable terracotta ornamentation, which adorns both the interior and exterior walls. It is entirely constructed with brick, a common building material in the region.
Five Sikharas: The central sikara is octagonal in shape and stands taller than the corner sikharas. It features a unique double roof in two levels, reminiscent of the “8 Chala” or 8-sided roofing style found in Bengal. At the peak of the central tower, there is a smooth dome made of brick. The central tower reaches a height of 10.7 meters from the base. The remaining four corner sikharas are square in shape, each resting on a curved roof. These corner towers are adorned with intricately decorated terracotta tiles and have lined sloping roofs, a variation similar to the “Deul” style.
Terracotta Artworks: The temple’s interior and exterior walls, as well as four of the five sikharas, feature extensive terracotta artworks. These terracotta panels depict various scenes and motifs, including mythological narratives, floral designs, and other intricate details.
Square Plan: The temple is designed with a square plan, with each side measuring 11.4 meters. It is enclosed by a triple-arched gateway on all four sides, adding to its architectural grandeur.
Reconstruction: At some point, one of the sikharas had collapsed, but it was subsequently rebuilt by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), preserving the temple’s architectural integrity.

The Shyam Rai Temple is not only a place of worship but also a treasure trove of architectural and artistic heritage. Its exquisite terracotta panels, unique roof design, and architectural style make it one of the most beautiful and historically significant temples in Bishnupur, attracting visitors and art enthusiasts from around the world.