Bhubaneswar Yameshwar Temple, Odisha

Address

Bhubaneswar Yameshwar Temple Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002, India

Diety

Yameshwar Amman: Parvati

Introduction

Bhubaneswar Yameshwar Temple is Located opposite Bakresvara Temple in the old city of Bhubaneswar, Yameshwar Temple (also known as Yameswara and Yamesvara) dates to the Ganga period of the 13th century A.D. In the south east corner of the compound stands a small shrine/temple emerging from below the present ground level, clear evidence that this structure is much older than anything else here. This temple stood half-buried until relatively recently when it was finally excavated and Half restored. On architectural and stylistic grounds it has been dated to the Bhauma (Kara) period of the late 7th century A.D, making it broadly contemporary with the Parasuramesvara Temple. there smaller shrines also exist in the temple compound, some appear to be likewise partially buried but unexcavated, others are clearly later constructions. A carved Nandi sits inside a small raised mandapa, a feature similar to the Nadi mandapa’s that can be seen in south Indian temples. The compound houses a number of standalone Shiva lingas, most notably a sahasra linga with its surface carved with hundreds of miniature lingas. The temple has been subjected to major conservation and renovation over the past few years, an undertaking that is still on-going today. About a third of the temple is currently covered with scaffolding. The exterior walls of the temple are intricately decorated, although many of the carvings have been subjected to significant weathering over the centuries. The abundant sculptures include Nagas, elephant processions, ladies riding elephants, dancing females, and plenty of amorous couples. Yameshwar Temple is at the western extent of ancient temples that can be seen in Bhubaneswar