Bishnupur Madan Mohan Temple – West Bengal

Address

Bishnupur Madan Mohan Temple – West Bengal

Madan Mohan Ln, Baburdanga,

Bishnupur, Bankura District,

West Bengal 722122

Moolavar

Lord Krishna

Introduction

The Madan Mohan Temple in Bishnupur, West Bengal, is a historically significant and beautifully adorned temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.

Historical Background: The Madan Mohan Temple was built by Malla King Durjan Singh in 1694 CE. However, the original temple was destroyed in 1820 due to a massive earthquake. Subsequently, the present temple was rebuilt.
Deity: The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is referred to as Madan Mohan in this temple. The deity of Lord Krishna is of particular significance in this temple because of an interesting legend. The original deity was installed in a village in Bengal and gained fame after a visit by Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a famous Vaishnava saint. Malla King Durjan Singh carried the idol to his capital at Vana-Vishnupur and enshrined it in a terracotta temple constructed for this purpose. Legend has it that the deity, Madan Mohan, himself defended the Malla king in a battle against the Maratha invaders known as the “Bargi.”
Architectural Style: The Madan Mohan Temple is part of a group of seven Eka Ratna temples in Bishnupur. An Eka Ratna temple is characterized by having a single spire. In earlier times, all these laterite temples were adorned with stucco images, but over time, many of these stucco decorations have deteriorated.
Eka Ratna Style: The temple follows the Eka Ratna style. It is a square, flat-roofed building with carved cornices, surmounted by a pinnacle. Compared to other similar temples in Bishnupur, this Eka Ratna temple is relatively larger and holds special importance.
Terracotta Panels: The most remarkable feature of the Madan Mohan Temple is its beautifully intricate terracotta panels. These panels are considered some of the most exquisite among all the temples in Bishnupur. They depict various scenes from the epics and Puranas, with a focus on the life and adventures of Lord Krishna, including episodes from Krishna Lila.
Architectural Elements: The temple has a square base of 12.2 meters by 12.2 meters and stands on a high laterite block platform. It features three arched entrances on the east, west, and south sides. The sloping roof on all four sides is surmounted by a single sikhara (tower) at the center, in keeping with the Eka Ratna style. The ceilings are adorned with different designs.
Notable Sculpture: One of the most notable sculptures is the Nabanarikunja, depicting nine females forming an elephant. The Chandi Mandap, located opposite the temple, is also adorned with a sloped chala-type roof and adds to the beauty of the complex.
Entrance: The entrance to the complex features a striking chala-type sloping roof and three arched entrances.