Bhaskareswara Temple: An Ancient Shiva Shrine

Bhaskareswara Temple, located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, holding both historical and religious significance. Constructed by the Ganga dynasty in the 12th century CE, the temple stands out due to its unique architecture and the massive Shiva Linga enshrined within. Bhubaneswar, known as the 'Temple City of India,' once boasted around 3,000 temples, with hundreds still present today. The temple's most striking feature is the nine-foot-tall Shiva Linga, visible from both stories of the temple. Some scholars believe the Linga may have originated as a part of an ancient Buddhist shrine, possibly an Ashokan pillar. Local legend says that the Linga is continually growing. The temple's architecture differs from other Kalinga-style temples, lacking a Jagamohana (prayer hall). The exterior is simple, adorned with Parsvadevatas (side deities) including Kartikeya, Parvati, and Ganesha. Despite its historical importance and unique features, the Bhaskareswara Temple remains relatively unknown, even among locals. The temple hosts its biggest festivity on Magha Saptami (January-February), when the movable image of Lord Lingaraj is brought to the temple. Devotees believe that praying at Bhaskareswara brings blessings of health, prosperity and peace.