Bhubaneshwar Subarna Jaleswara Temple, Odisha
Address
Bhubaneshwar Subarna Jaleswara Temple, Odisha
Kotitirtha Ln, Gouri Nagar,
Old Town, Bhubaneswar,
Odisha 751002
Moolavar
Subarna Jaleswara
Introduction
The Subarna Jaleswara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a historical and living temple located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
- Construction Period: The Subarna Jaleswara Temple was built in the 10th century CE by the Somavamshi Kings, making it a significant historical and architectural site.
- Location: The temple is situated on the left side of Kotitirthesvara lane, which leads from Parasurameswara Temple to Bindu Sagar. It is located adjacent to the Sampoorna Jaleswara Temple, separated by a drainage canal. A narrow bridge connects the two temples.
- Origin of the Name: The area surrounding the temple was once inhabited by goldsmiths, who worshipped Lord Shiva here. As a result, the deity came to be known as Subarna Jaleswara, with “Subarna” meaning gold in Oriya.
- Orientation: Subarna Jaleswara Temple faces east and is a living temple with an active religious community.
- Presiding Deity: The main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, who is enshrined in the sanctum in the form of a Shiva Lingam. A Nandi (bull) sculpture can be found facing the sanctum.
- Architectural Style: The temple follows a pancha ratha plan and features pancha anga bada in its elevation. The vimana (main shrine) is of the rekha deula type and consists of only the vimana with an attached porch. Unlike some other temples, there is no separate Jagamohana (assembly hall) in this temple.
- Architectural Details: The niches around the shrines are currently empty, without any sculptures. Above the entrance door, there is a Navagraha Panel, which is unique because it is flanked by two Ganas. The Dwara Palas (door guardians) at the base of the doorjambs are depicted as Ganga and Yamuna, each with their respective mounts.
- Additional Features: Within the temple premises, there is an idol of Goddess Dharini of recent origin. A large Shiva Linga can also be found near the idol of Goddess Dharini.
Century/Period
10th century CE
Managed By
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
Nearest Bus Station
Bhubaneshwar
Nearest Railway Station
Bhubaneshwar
Nearest Airport
Bhubaneshwar