Bara Ahnik Mandir – Bangladesh

Address

Bara Ahnik Mandir Puthia – Bagha Rd, Puthia, Rajshahi Division, Bangladesh

Diety

Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma

Introduction

The Bara Ahnik Mandir is a temple dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, located in the Puthia Temple Complex in Puthia Upazila, Rajshahi Division, Bangladesh. This temple is architecturally exceptional and is known for its unique design.

Location: The Bara Ahnik Mandir is situated in Puthia town, within the Puthia Temple Complex. Puthia is approximately 32 kilometers (20 miles) away from Rajshahi town, which is a railhead and accessible by road. Rajshahi is located on the Dhaka-Rajshahi Highway.
Architectural Significance: The Bara Ahnik Mandir is known for its exceptional architecture, making it unique in Bangladesh. It is one of the very few temples of its kind, with the only other known temple of similar architectural style being the Rajaram Mandir in Faridpur District.
Builders: The temple was built by the Rajas of Puthia, who were responsible for constructing several temples in the Puthia Temple Complex.
Orientation: The temple faces east and stands adjacent to the Chauchala Chhota Govinda Mandir within the temple complex.
Architectural Features: The Bara Ahnik Mandir is designed with a triple archway in the center and an open platform. It consists of three chambers: a dochala in the center, which means it has two roofs, and two chauchala structures on its north and south sides. The terms “dochala” and “char-chala” refer to the shape of the roofs, with “chauchala” resembling a hut with four sloping roof sections.
Lack of Idols: Unlike some other temples, the Bara Ahnik Mandir does not house idols or deities within it.
Terracotta Decorations: The temple’s eastern facade is richly adorned with terracotta plaques. These plaques are decorated with intricate designs, although some of them may be in a deteriorated condition.

The Bara Ahnik Mandir is not only an architectural gem but also a place of historical and cultural significance within the Puthia Temple Complex. Its unique design and terracotta decorations offer insights into the art and architecture of the period in which it was constructed, reflecting the rich heritage of the region.