Bhubaneswar Madneswar Siva Temple- Odisha

Address

Bhubaneswar Madneswar Siva Temple- Brahmeswar Patana Rd, Brahmeswarpatna, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002

Diety

Madneswar Siva

Introduction

The Madanesvara Siva Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is an ancient temple believed to have been built around the 12th century CE. It is situated in Santarapur, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.

Deity: The primary deity worshiped in this temple is Lord Shiva, and the deity is enshrined in the form of a Shiva Lingam within a circular yonipitha (base or pedestal). Lord Shiva is a prominent deity in Hinduism and is revered as the god of destruction and transformation.
Architectural Features: The Madanesvara Siva Temple has a square sanctum that faces east. The temple’s architectural style is typical of Odisha’s temple architecture, characterized by its distinct architectural elements and design principles. While major portions of the temple have fallen into ruins over time, some renovations have been carried out to preserve the remaining structures.
Pabhaga: The surviving portion of the temple primarily includes the pabhaga, which consists of five distinct moldings: khura, kumbha, pata, kani, and basanta. These moldings are an integral part of the temple’s base and contribute to its architectural beauty.
Superstructure: Unfortunately, the superstructure (towering portion) of the temple has collapsed over time, resulting in the temple’s current state of disrepair. The temple’s superstructure would have once featured intricate architectural details and decorative elements.

Despite the temple’s state of partial ruin and the loss of its superstructure, the surviving pabhaga and the Lingam within the sanctum reflect the historical and architectural significance of the temple. Temples like the Madanesvara Siva Temple are valuable cultural and historical treasures, providing insights into the rich heritage of Odisha’s temple architecture and its enduring religious traditions.