Orchha Panchmukhi Mahadev Temple, Madhya Pradesh

Address

Orchha Panchmukhi Mahadev Temple, Madhya Pradesh

Orchha Fort, Orchha,

Niwari district,

Madhya Pradesh 472246

Moolavar

Mahadev

Introduction

Orchha Panchmukhi Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the Orchha town, Niwari district, Madhya Pradesh. This temple is located inside a fortified square courtyard. This temple also can be dated to 17^th century AD based on its architectural features. The temple architecture is representative of the Astabhadra (octagonal) plan of Bhumija style of Architecture. The other temple in this complex is of a similar plan, but of a smaller size.

Puranic Significance

One such grand and unique monument is the Panchmukhi Mahadev Temple which is actually a complex. The government and the archeology department are fully responsible for the plight of this temple. Panchmukhi Mahadev Temple is a magnificent ancient monument and locals are using it as personal property. The Panchmukhi Mahadev Temple is situated in the middle of the enclosed complex. The floor configuration of the west-facing temple has the sanctum sanctorum and pavilion. Foundation block known as Vedibandh, rising walls (Jangha) and shikhara are based on Bhumija and Nagar style in vertical configuration. On stylistic grounds the temple is of 17th century AD. Although the temple is of Nagara style, in which Ashtabhadra means eight directional branches occupied by the directional deities and Khajuraho style Urubhangyukt Shikhar means subsidiary Shikhara were used in Orchha under the patronage of Maharaja Veer Singh Dev. Hence it’s allotted to Bundela style on regional basis. The other two temples built in the complex are similar to the above temple in plan, and the octagonal chhatri with eight pillars covered with fluted dome, which is equipped with stone pillars and attractive lintel and overhangs, has beautiful paintings depicting Dashavatar and other stories.