Bhubaneswar Champakesvara Temple, Odisha

Address

Bhubaneswar Champakesvara Temple, Kotitirthesvara lane, Gouri Nagar, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002

Diety

Champakesvara

Introduction

The Champakesvara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a historically significant temple located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India. Situated about 200 meters southwest of the Parasurameswara Temple, the Champakesvara Temple is located on the right side of the Kotitirthesvara lane leading to BinduSagar.

Puranic Significance

The Champakesvara Temple was constructed in the 13th century CE by the Ganga Kings. It stands as a testament to the architectural and cultural heritage of that era. The temple is believed to be the abode of ChampaNagas (snakes), and hence, the presiding deity is known as Champakesvara. It is believed that these snakes residing in the temple will never harm anyone. The temple faces east and is an important place of worship for devotees. The temple is currently maintained by the local residents of AmbikaSahi. Additionally, it has undergone repairs under the supervision of Odisha State Archaeology.

Architectural Style: Originally, the temple was constructed as a Panchayatana temple, which consists of a central shrine surrounded by four subsidiary shrines. Ruins of these subsidiary shrines can still be observed in the north-east and south-east corners of the temple complex.
Temple Plan: The temple follows a pancharatha plan and features panchangabada in its elevation. It consists of a rekhavimana (main shrine) and a pidhajagamohana (assembly hall). Both the vimana and the jagamohana are square on plan.
Sanctum: The sanctum, where the presiding deity Champakesvara resides in the form of a Shiva Linga, is situated about three feet below the present ground level. The doorjambs of the sanctum are plain, and the raha niches on the western, northern, and southern sides are empty.
Exterior Decor: The exterior walls of the temple are adorned with various architectural motifs, including rekhamundis, pidhamundis, and flat pilaster designs.
Subsidiary Shrine: One of the subsidiary shrines within the temple complex houses a broken image of Kartikeya, depicted with four arms and standing posture. The upper left arm of Kartikeya rests on a cock, which is upheld by a diminutive woman.
Ancient Well: In front of the temple, there is an ancient well that adds to the historical significance of the site.