Bishnupur Lalji Vishnu Temple – West Bengal

Address

Bishnupur Lalji Vishnu Temple – West Bengal

Rajdarbar Rd,

Bishnupur, Bankura District

West Bengal 722122

Moolavar

Vishnu

Introduction

The Lalji Temple, also known as the Radha Laliju Temple, is a historically significant temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located in Bishnupur Town, Bankura District, West Bengal, India.

Historical Background: The Lalji Temple was built by Malla King Bir Singha II in the year 1658 CE. Notably, this temple was constructed exactly a century before the Radhashyama Temple, another prominent temple in the region.
Eka Ratna Style: The Lalji Temple is one of the seven Eka Ratna temples in Bishnupur. The term “Eka Ratna” refers to a single-pinnacled temple style. In earlier times, all these laterite temples were adorned with stucco images. However, the stucco decorations have deteriorated over time.
Architectural Features: The temple is a beautiful laterite structure that adheres to the Ek Ratna temple architectural style. Like most temples in Bishnupur, the Lalji Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. However, it is not an active or living temple and currently does not house a deity.
Architectural Style: The temple is square in plan and stands on a high plinth adorned with ornamental stucco decorations in low relief carvings. Its roof is of the char chala (sloping) style, and it features a single sikhara (single pinnacled tower) at the top.
Terracotta Panels: Most of the terracotta panels on the exterior of the temple have deteriorated over time. Only a few remain on the upper parts of the arched openings, offering glimpses of the intricate terracotta art that once adorned the temple.
Inscription: Inside the temple, a stone slab with an inscription in Bengali characters is preserved. The inscription is dated 1577 Saka (equivalent to 1655 A.D.). It records the construction of a Navaratna (nine-pinnacled) temple dedicated to Krishna by Rani Lakshmanavati, the wife of Raja Hari Narayan.

The Lalji Temple is not only a testament to the historical and architectural heritage of Bishnupur but also serves as a reminder of the rich cultural and religious traditions of the region. While the stucco decorations have largely vanished, the temple still holds historical and artistic significance in the town.