Mukteswara Temple Bhubanewsar

Mukteswara temple situated at Bhubaneswar, Odisha is a remarkable excellence of architectural and artistic style of 10^th century by Somavanshi Dynasty. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva is also known for its unique sculptures, intricate carvings and evaluation in architectural significance of India.

The name of the temple “Mukteswara” came from the word “Mukti” which means freedom or liberation or salvation. It is said that worshipping Lord Shiva can give freedom, mentally as well as spiritually. Therefore, devotees from Whole World came to visit the temple.

Architecture of Mukteswara Temple

The sculpture artistry makes the temple unique from other temples. The temple also known as “Gem of Odisha” or “Miniature Gem” of Odisha. The temple is surrounded with various beautifully crafted sculptures. Idol of Lord Shiva in various of forms and his wife Devi Parvati are worshiped here.

The arched gateway or Torana is the masterpiece of the temple. Which is a showcase of various divine and mythological figures scenes and sculptures of dancers. This is the gateway with its remarkable art and craft work and an example of Odissi artistic expression.

Mukteswara temple is also known for its Kalinga architectures. The temple is known for its beautiful carvings, decorative motifs and the main sculpture Vimana. The temple is also one of the smallest temples of Bhubaneswar with its rich significance. Rekha Deul or the pyramid tower also known as Jagamohana, Vimana, Nata Mandira or the leading hall and the food hall are the parts of the temple.

The image of Lakulisa is also painted there. He was a saint who had spread Pashupata Shaivism religion in the state during the sixth century AD. Also there is a carving of a woman writing letter. Those carving represents the Hindu society during that time. Also the chaitya windows or the decorative arches are also a part of the window.

Festival of Mukteswara temple

Mukteswara Dance festival is held in the temple, which is organized every year from 14^th to 16^th January. Which is the event of classical dance shows. The festival gathers people from everywhere in the temple.

History of Mukteswara Temple Bhubaneswar

The “gem of architecture” or the Mukteswara temple is said to build in 10^th century or in 966 CE by the King Yayati I of the Somavamsi dynasty. This time of phase is also remarked as a significant development of architectural temples in Odisha.  It is said that the temple is the oldest architecture of Somavanshi dynasty. It is also said that the sculptures which are drawn on the red wall of the temples in 950 AD.  The temple is believed to be built before Parasurameswara Temple and Brahmeswara Temple.

Best time to visit Mukteswara Temple

The temple remains open throughout the year. So temple can be visited at any months of the year. But it is difficult to visit in the season of summer, from April to June. So it is better to visit between November to February or October to March.

Read More – Famous temples of Odisha

Mukteswara temple Timings

The Mukteswara Temple remains open all the days of the week. And the temple opens at 6:30 AM and closes at 7:00 PM at the evening. And the entry fee is free for all the devotes.

Facts about Temple

• The temple is also an example of one of the shortest temples of Bhubaneswar, which is 35ft tall.
• The temple is also an earliest example of two ties temple in Kalinga style. The pyramid roof at the top of Jagamohana is first made in this temple.
• The temple is consisting with Vimana, Torana or arched gateway, porch and mukhsala. Which are made in Pithadeula style.
• The gateway or Torana consists of two pillars and sculptures of smiling women. Also it consists sculptures of peacocks and monkeys. It is said that the Torana consists the scenes from Ramayan and Mahabharat.
• There is a photo of Ketu with three snakes are drawn at the doorway of inner sanctum, this represents the ninth planet of Hindu mythology.
• At the eastern corner of the temple, there is a tank, which is known as Marichi Kunda. It is believed that taking a dip in the wall can cure the infertility of women.
• It is said that the temple is the center of tantric initiation.
• The photos of Lakulisha with various mudras or yoga, Bhumispara, vyakyana, and yogapatta can be found in Chaitya arches.
• In 1984, Mukteswara dance festival was first held at this temple. And from 2004, the festival was continuously held at the temple.
• The temple is known as “gem of Odissi architectures” and “miniature gem” because of its unique and beautiful architectures of Kalinga style. Besides this because of the same reason the temple is also known as the “Jewel of Odisha”.
• At the east side of the temple there are total six temples located.
• There is total five parts of the base of the temple: Kumbha, Pata, Khura, Kani and Vasanta. Naga columns and Gaja Simha are set back in the pilasters. And the ground of the temple looks like a star.
• There are some portions of the roof which are located above the windows also can be divided into two tires with steps. And also surrounded by images of lions.  

How to Reach

Mukteswara temple is located at Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The temple can be reached by bus, train and by air.

By Air: At a distance of 4.5 km Biju Patnaik International Airport is the nearest airport to the temple. From the airport, bus, auto, taxis are available, which takes 13 minutes to reach the temple.

By Train: At a distance of 4.4 Km, Bhubaneswar Railway Station is the nearest railway station to the temple. From the station taxi, private and public cars, auto and taxi are available to the station.

By Bus: Baramunda Bus stand is the major bus stand of Odisha, located at Bhubaneswar. From the bus stand govt and ORSTC bus are available to the temple. Besides that, Kedar Gauri Bus Stand is the nearest bus stop of the temple.

FAQ

Why is Mukteshwar temple famous?

Lord Shiva is said to have destroyed a demon here and gave him salvation (Mukti), therefore the name Mukteshwar. Mukteshwar Dham was the residence of Saint Shri Mukteshwar Maharaj ji, who lived in a bungalow here. Swami Sanshudhanand ji, one of his disciples, now lives there.

What is the story of Mukteswara temple?

The Mukteshvara Temple was discovered to be the first work of the Somavamshi era. The temple, according to most academics, is the successor to the Parashurameshvara Temple and was built before the Brahmeswara Temple (1060 CE). Percy Brown dates the temple’s construction to 950 CE.

Who built Mukteswara temple?

Mukteswara Temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and is located in Kanchipuram (Kanchi). Mukteswar Temple was established in the 8th century CE under the reign of Nandivarman Pallava.

What is the history of Mukteshwar temple in Odisha?

The temple is thought to have been erected by Yayati I, the king of the Somavamshi Dynasty. The west-facing structure of this temple illustrates a transition between the early and later phases of the Kalinga style of architecture, which was prevalent in many temples built in Odisha at the period.

What is the height of Mukteswar Temple in Odisha?

The Mukteswar Temple is one of Bhubaneswar’s smallest and most compact temples. It has a height of 34 feet.

What is the architecture of Mukteswar Temple?

The sanctum (garbhagriha) of the temple is square, with a modest vestibule (antarala) in front. The temple is entered through a portico (mandapa) supported by four pillars. In front of the porch, there is also a little open courtyard (Jagmohan).