Mahendragiri Yudhistra Temple, Odisha

Address

Mahendragiri Yudhistra Temple, Odisha

Maahendragiri,

Mahendragiri Hill Rd,

Odisha 761212

Moolavar

Lord Shiva

Introduction

Yudhistra Temple located in the Mahendragiri Hills, Paralakhemundi subdivision of the Gajapati district, Odisha, India. This temple dedicated to Lord Shiva appears to be situated in a scenic and spiritually significant location.

Puranic Significance 

1. Historical Significance:
   • The Yudhistra Temple is believed to date back to the latter part of the 6th century A.D.
   • According to the Mahabharata, Mother Kunti and her five sons (the Pandavas) stayed at this location during their 12 years of Vanavasa (exile).
   • Legend holds that the Pandavas installed the Shivalingas and played a role in the temple’s construction.
   • The Pandavas are said to have worshipped Gokarneshwara at this temple on Shivaratri before departing the area.
2. Mythological and Historical Associations:
   • The temple’s location on Mahendragiri Hills is associated with mythological stories from the Ramayana, where it is referred to as Mahendra Parvata (mountain).
   • It is known as the Southern Amarnath of Orissa, suggesting its spiritual significance.
3. Temple Architecture and Features:
   • The temple faces west and is constructed in the triratha architectural style.
   • It is built with hard granite blocks, and the top of the temple is adorned with an amalaka (circular stone disk) and a weapon.
   • The sanctum of the temple does not contain an idol, similar to the Bhima Temple.
   • There are four Chaitya arches on the tower of the temple, one on each side.
   • The outer walls of the temple lack sculptural decorations.
   • Niche idols are absent around the shrine.
   • Broken idols can be found scattered within the temple courtyard.
4. Historical Inscription:
   • The lintel of the front door of the temple contains an inscription attributed to the Chola Emperor Rajendra Chola.
   • The inscription mentions the defeat of the Kuluta chief Vimaladitya by a general of Emperor Rajendra Chola I and provides historical context related to the region.

Century/Period

6th Century A.D

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

Nearest Bus Station

Mahendragiri

Nearest Railway Station

Palasa Station

Nearest Airport

Visakhapatnam

Location on Map

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