|
About
The fact behind the name
| | About | | Rajarani temple got its name from a red- gold sand stone used, which is called Rajarani locally and the temple has no presiding deity. The temple has intricately carved figurines in various stages of daily chores.
| | | The fact behind the name | | The Rajarani temple, dating back to the 11th century, is set in open paddy fields, and the entire structure exudes grace and elegance. The name of the temple has been the subject of much debate. The most likely explanation being related to the lovely red-and- gold sandstone used in its construction. The debate is complicated by the fact that the names of all the Hindu temples in Bhubaneswar dedicated to the God Shiva end in the suffix ‘eswar’ (for example Parasurameswara, Mukteswara, etc.), while those of the non-Shaivite temples are derived from their presiding deities (e.g. Parvati temple).
One major scholar has argued that the name Rajarani was only applied to the temple at a later date (because of the sandstone), but originally this is the Shiva shrine referred to in early texts, as Indreswara. This seems the most likely conclusion.
The jagmohana (porch) is extremely plain, which was evidently repaired in 1903 after having fallen down in ruins. The deul (tower), on the other hand, is spectacularly ornate, and is famous for the aesthetic concept of miniature temple spires clustered around the main tower. The sculptural images of the temple are elegant and lively, especially the beautiful female figures which are in amorous dalliance, as well as engaged in such activities as holding children, looking in mirrors, and playing with pet birds. On the lower register of the deul, on the corner projections, are found the famous 'Guardians of the Eight Directions'.
This Temple is the only one of its kind in the region of orissa to have a cluster of diminutive towers, or sikharas, in tiers composing the main tower. Both the jagamohana, or porch, and the deul, or central shrine, are richly decorated. The whole temple is ornately carved with artistic sculpture featuring an unusual delicacy
| |
|
|
|
|
