Bhima Kichak(Deur) Temple, Chhattisgarh

Address

Bhima Kichak(Deur) Temple, Malhar, Chhattisgarh 495551

Diety

Shiva

Introduction

Bhima Kichak Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Malhar Town in Bilaspur District in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh.

Puranic Significance

Malhar, an ancient town consists of ruins of temples and a mud fort. This Temple can be dated around 6 th – 7 th century CE based on architectural style.

Special Features

Current Condition: Unfortunately, the Bhima Kichak Temple is now in ruins, with only the lower half, up to the Bhitti (wall), having survived the passage of time. This has left the temple’s upper portions and superstructure lost to history.
Temple Structure: The temple consists of a Sanctum (inner chamber) and an Antrala (antechamber). The Sanctum houses a Shiva Linga, a sacred symbol of Lord Shiva. The entrance door to the Sanctum is adorned with intricate carvings depicting life-sized images of the river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna, along with Dvarapalas (guardian deities).
Wall Carvings: The temple’s walls once featured beautiful depictions of various forms of Lord Shiva and Ganas (divine attendants) in different postures. These intricate carvings would have added to the temple’s architectural and artistic appeal. However, due to the deteriorated state of the temple, these depictions may have been damaged or worn over time.
Temple Artifacts: Within the temple premises, there are remnants of broken idols, doors, sculptures, and friezes, further highlighting the historical and artistic significance of the site.
Local Name: The locals commonly refer to this temple as the “Deur temple.” However, its actual name is Bhima Kichak. This temple shares similarities with the Pataleshwar Mahadev Temple.
National Importance: The Bhima Kichak Temple has been designated as a site of national importance and is protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites & Remains Act of 1958. It falls under the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India, which plays a crucial role in preserving and protecting India’s historical and cultural heritage.