Jajpur Pranayamesvara Temple - Odisha

Address

Jajpur Pranayamesvara Temple – Odisha

Jajpur, Jajpur District,

Odisha 755007

Moolavar

Pranayamesvara

Introduction

The Pranayamesvara Temple in Jajpur Town, Odisha, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a significant religious site with historical and architectural importance.

Location: The Pranayamesvara Temple is located in Jajpur Town, Jajpur District, Odisha, India. It is situated approximately 100 meters away from the Viraja Temple, which is also a prominent religious site in the area.
Significance: Pranayamesvara Temple is considered one of the 108 Shiva Lingas of Viraja Kshetra, adding to its religious significance.
Historical Origins: The temple is believed to have been built during the 8th century CE by the Bhaumakara Kings, reflecting its historical heritage.
Orientation: The temple is facing east, which is a common orientation for Hindu temples.
Architectural Features:
- The temple structure consists of a square vimana (tower), which stands atop a low pista (platform).
- The temple remains intact up to its bada (main body) portion.
- Architecturally, it follows a triratha plan and has a plain bada in elevation.
- The sanctum of the temple houses the deity Pranayamesvara in the form of a Linga within a circular yonipitha (pedestal).
Sculptural Elements: The temple complex features various sculptures and images, including:
- An image of a two-armed Surya (Sun god) on the rear wall of the vimana.
- Idols of Lord Ganesha.
- A defaced female deity.
- Numerous Nandi (the sacred bull associated with Lord Shiva) sculptures.
- A large number of architectural fragments.
Current Control: The Pranayamesvara Temple is currently under the control of the local authorities of Devidwar.

This temple not only holds religious significance but also serves as an architectural and historical relic that provides insights into the cultural and artistic heritage of the region, particularly during the rule of the Bhaumakara Kings in the 8th century CE.