Anandomoyee Temple, Somra Sukhariya

 

                                    Anandomoyee Temple, Somra Sukhariya

Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/Zhq8ss4BK3Q

Location: “4CMV+655 Ma Anandamoyee Temple, Sukuria, West Bengal 712123”

References:

https://kevinstandagephotography.wordpress.com/2024/05/22/the-terracotta-temples-of-sukharia-sukuria/

https://www.getbengal.com/home/story_detail/somra-palace-and-the-sukharia-village-in-hooghly-district-of-bengal--getbengal-story

https://www.livehistoryindia.com/story/people/bengals-mitra-mustafi-family-trilogy (Mitra Mustafi family)

 

History of Mita Mustafi Family

‘Mitra Mustafi’ family ‘s architectural legacy can be seen in their mansions, temples and religious structures in Ula-Birnagar (now in Nadia district of West Bengal), Sripur-Balagarh (now in Hooghly district) and Sukharia-Somra (also in Hooghly district). In the late 17th century, Shaista Khan, the then Mughal Governor of Bengal (1664- 1688), appointed a man named Rameshwar Mitra in the Accounts section of the Bengal Governorate. A descendant of the Kayasths who had migrated from Kannauj to Bengal, Rameshwar Mitra excelled at his work and over the years built a formidable reputation. In time, he became so pivotal in the administration that, in 1700 CE, when Murshid Quli Khan became Governor of Bengal, he sent Rameshwar Mitra on a special deputation to the imperial capital of Delhi, to work in the Accounts Department of the Mughal court. Impressed by his work, Emperor Aurangzeb conferred on him the title of ‘Mustauphi/Mustafi’ in 1704 CE. The Emperor also presented him a golden palm (royal seal). Rameshwar Mitra grew to become a wealthy and influential personality and built many architecturally beautiful structures in his native village before he died in 1630 Shakabda (c. 1708). He had ten sons and a daughter, who would fan out across three villages and build magnificent mansions and temples, many of which are still standing. Rameshwar Mitra’s father, Mohan Mitra, settled near the banks of the Bhagirathi River in a village called Ula-Birnagar (now in Nadia district of West Bengal) in 1657. His son Rameshwar built a huge mansion named ‘Mitra Mustafi House’ in the village, in addition to many other architectural gems including several mansions, temples and other religious structures. All that remains of Mitra Mustafi House is an arched gateway whose crumbling bricks jut out of its walls. The old mansion has long since crumbled and the gateway is all that’s left of those glorious days. The gateway leads to a chandi mandap built by the family, where Durga Puja is performed every year. The wooden chandi mandap was once covered by a thatched roof that has been replaced by corrugated tin sheets.

In the early 18th century, Rameshwar Mitra’s eldest son, Raghunandan Mitra, migrated to Sripur-Balagarm (now in Hooghly district) to take advantage of the river trade to make his own fortune. Not only did he amass great wealth, he also built a fort complex in Sripur. Raghunandan Mitra built large mansions, Shiva temples and a Rash Mancha (a hall for Krishna worship during festivals) in Sripur even though he was a follower of Shaktism. From then on, Sripur saw a cultural assimilation of Shaivism, Shaktism and Vaishnavism. Raghunandan Mitra died in 1661 Shakabda (c. 1739).

Rameshwar Mitra’s fourth son, Anantaram Mitra, arrived in Sukharia-Somra (now in Hooghly district) in 1712 CE. His fourth son, Tilakram Mitra Mustafi, bought land in Sukharia, Punui and Gopinagar from the Burdwan Raj Estate in 1757. I n 1813, Anantaram’s nephew, Bireshwar Mitra Mustafi (son of Shambhuram Mitra Mustafi), erected a three-storey Ananda Bhairavi Temple crowned by 25 pinnacles. 

Anandamoyee Temple, Sukhariya

The quaint Sukharia village is on the busy Somra Bazar railway line in Hooghly district. Located on the west bank of the Hooghly River, 70 km north of Kolkata, Sukharia (Sukuria) and its neighboring districts were once home to some of Bengal’s elite Zamindar families, including the Sens and Mitra Mustafis. While most of their grand mansions have fallen into ruins, remnants such as Corinthian pillars, hanging balconies, and Durga Manchas still reflect their past grandeur. The temples built alongside these mansions have survived in far better condition.

The Ananda-Bhairavi Temple is a rare example of the panchavimshati-ratna (twenty-five pinnacled) type of temple architecture. The temple is located by the side of the Anandamoyee Pond. The temple was constructed in 1813 by Bireswar Mitra Mustafi who was the nephew of Anataraman Mitra Mustafi (son of  Shambhuram Mitra Mustafi). The temple houses Maa Anandamoyee on a wooden singhasana in the sanctum. Featuring rich terracotta facades, the temple’s 5 pinnacles were destroyed during an earthquake in 1897 and were later reconstructed. Anandamoyee Temple houses the main temple of Anandamoyee Maa, which is surrounded by 12 smaller temples. Although the present structure was completed in 1813 and most of the structure is in ruins, a few terracotta panels are still in good condition. The palace of the Mitra Mustafi family, known as Radha Kunja, still stands.

The first story of the temple has 12 pinnacles (3 on each side), second has 8 on (3 each side), and a 3rd story having 4 on each side. The central single pinnacle stands at the top. The structure is adorned with terracotta figures of deities, birds, floral motifs, boating scenes, European soldiers, and features a triple-arched entrance decorated with terracotta work.

The temple complex also includes twelve additional temples, with ten standard aatchala (eight-roofed) temples and two pancha-ratna temples. One of the pancha-ratna temples is dedicated to Lord Ganesh, while all the other flanking temples house Lord Shiva. All these temples are situated on a raised platform, although many are now leaning due to inadequate foundations. The Mitra Mustafi family mansion, known as Radha Kunja, still exists in a dilapidated state. Built by Ramjiban, the great-grandson of Sambhuram Mitra Mustafi, this mansion once showcased immense wealth and splendor. The Bengali film “Akaler Sandhane,” directed by Mrinal Sen and featuring actors like Dhritiman Chatterjee, was filmed here. Despite its current condition, the mansion’s vast dimensions remain awe-inspiring.

Harasundari Temple (did not know and couldn’t visit)

A short walk from Ananda-Bhairavi Temple leads to another temple complex by a lake, featuring the Navaratna-styled Harasundari Kali Temple and fourteen additional flanking temples. Constructed in 1813 by Dewan Ramnidhi Mustafi, the complex includes twelve aatchala styled Shiva temples and two pancharatna styled temples.

One can also visit the double story place of the Mitra Mustafis although they are partly overtaken by vegetation. The palace was closed when we visited.

 

How to reach:

By Train: The most convenient way to reach Sukharia is to take the Howrah-Katwal local train in the morning and get down at the Somra Bazaar station. There are rickshaws from the station, and by foot it would take around 15 minutes to reach the place.

By Road: The Sukharia Bus Stop (also known as Somra Bus Stop) is located on Station Road in Somra, Badadanga, Balagarh, Hooghly District, West Bengal. No direct buses are available from Kolkata however. Train is still the best way to travel.

By Air: Kolkata airport is around 70 KMs

Photography and Parking:

There is no restriction on photography. Drones can be used too.

No dedicated parking. Vehicles should be parked near the temple and it’s not an issue.

Timings:

The temple opens daily early in the morning (around 6:00 AM) and close by late afternoon (around 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM), often closing for a few hours in the afternoon. 

Famous Festivals:

The most famous festivals celebrated at the historic Somra-Sukharia temple complex, particularly at the Ananda Bhairavi Temple, are Durga Puja and Kali Puja. These festivals are deeply rooted in tradition, with the descendants of the Mitra Mustafi family returning to the village to celebrate at this 300-year-old site. 

 

Palpara Terracotta Kali Mandir

 

                                                Palpara Terracotta Kali Mandir

Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/zGj4vSgirBo

Location: “Palpara Terracotta Temple, 3G58+9QW, Rajbagan, more, Palpara, Chakdaha, West Bengal 741248”

References:

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2023/04/kali-temple-palpara-west-bengal.html

https://amlanthetramp.com/2024/04/17/palpara/

 

 

Palpara is a neighbourhood in Chakdaha, in Kalyani subdivision of the Nadia district in Bengal. The Palpara railway station is 59 km from Sealdah railway station, and 51.4 km from Krishnanagar railway station. Palpara is famous for its 17th-century terracotta Kali temple, also popularly known as "Palpara Temple", which is now under the supervision of ASI.The temple is locally known as “Moth Mandir” or Kali Mandir and is situated on the banks of Hooghly.

A gem of a terracota temple from Bengal. The temple at Palpara, Chakdaha, Nadia, is believed to be made by Gandharba Roy in 17th century AD. This is a brick built char chala temple with the frontal facade having beautiful terracota floral and geometric motifs. Scenes of Rama fighting Ravana are also depicted in terracota panels above the door frame.

This brick-built south facing charchala temple stands on a raised plinth. The brick temple is approximately 26 feet 8 inches in height. The frontal facade of the temple is richly decorated. The multi-cusped arched entrance is flanked by two door pillars and an ornamental spandrel above it depicting the fighting of Rama & Ravana and worshippers in the temples in terracotta. The doorframe has been decorated with floral & geometric designs along with dragon motif, there are lotus medallions, of varying sizes at different places of the frontal facade adding beauty to the temple. However, most of the terracotta panels have been lost. 

 

There is a six-row geometric design on the left side of the temple. The temple has rich geometric designs and possibly a rare example of “Terracotta”-temples in any district.Especially, the panel depicting the battle of Rama and Ravana is a rare piece of work.

The foundation stone of the temple is missing. It is believed to have been built by the landlord Gandharba Roy in the 17th century, although the plaque containing information such as the name of the founder and the year of foundation has long been lost. 

 

How to reach:

1.     By Train: Palpara can be reached by local trains from Sealdah. Ranaghat, Santipur, Krishnanagar and Gede local trains pass through Palpara. The temple stands a walking distance from the station.

2.    By Bus: Chakdaha Bus stand is around 3 KMs from the temple. E-rickshaws are easily available.

3.    By Air: Kolkata airport is around 56 KMs from Chakdah

 

Hangsheshwari Temp and Ananga Basudev Temple, Bansberia

 

                        Hangsheshwari Temp and Ananga Basudev Temple, Bansberia

Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/zGj4vSgirBo

Location: “Shri Hangseshwari Temple, X97X+PW7, Bansberia Rd, Bansberia, Mithapukur More, West Bengal 712502”

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hangseshwari_Temple

https://chitrolekha.com/story-of-the-hanseswari-temple-banshberia/

https://hooghly.nic.in/tourist-place/hangseswari-temple/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ananta_Basudeba_Temple

https://rangandatta.wordpress.com/2016/09/18/hanseswari-temple-and-ananta-basudev-temple-bansberia-hooghly/

In 1673, Zamindar Rameshwar Ray left Patuli and settled in Bansberia or Banskabati as it was known earlier in Hooghly. Bansberia is located besides our holy river Hooghly, and in between Tribeni and Bandel. Zamindar Rameshwar Ray was gifted this village of around 400 Bigha of Land and its Zamindari by the Mughal emperor Shahjehan who also gifted him the prestigious title of King. From this time onward many of his kith and kin settled in Bansberia.

Bansberia was also one of the important villages of the Saptagram (a unit of seven villages), an important port town in medieval Bengal. Its importance in pre-Muslim Bengal was religious, owing to its location at the Tribeni or confluence of three rivers. After Muslim occupation in the late 13th century (by a Ghazi or warrior-saint named Zafar Khan) it continued to be an important city under the Tughlaks, as a military base, mint-town and port. After the Mughal conquest of Bengal in the mid-16th century, the city started to decline due to the loss of royal patronage, but some areas such as Bansberia continued to prosper up to the 19th century, sponsored by semi-independent zamindars who built several temples in the area. Amongst these is the Hanseswari Temple built in 1814. It was constructed by the wife of Nrisinghadeb, the grandson of Rameshwar.

The Hanseswari temple was built in the beginning of the 19th century. The main deity is the blue neem-wood idol of the four-armed goddess Hanseswari, a manifestation of Goddess Kali. The temple is 21 meter high and has 13 towers. The peak of each tower is shaped as a lotus flower. Built according to Tantric principles, this five-storey shrine follows the structure of a human body – Ira, Pingala, Bajraksha, Sushumna and Chitrini. The architecture of the temples is the representation of "Tantrik Satchakrabhed".  The deity has been designed and installed following the concept of Yoga and Pranayam. The word “Hong” is pronounced at the time of breathing out whereas the word “S-a-a” is uttered at the time of breathing in. “Hong” manifests “Shiva” and “S-a-a” represents “Mother Shakti.” The temple has both the Deities of Shiva and Shakti and hence the name is “Hansheswari”. On the top of thousand petals blue lotus, lies the eight petals bloodred lotus. Image of white “Shiva” is found to be lying on six triangular marbles. From the navel of “Mahadeva”, a lotus stem has come out carrying twelve petals blood-red lotus.

 The upper left hand of Mother Shakti,  is carrying a sword to represent her power to curb the demons, the lower left one is carrying a severed head of a demon; the upper right palm is posed in a “Fearless-Mudra (Abhaya Mudra)” so as to depict her as the “Protector” of the world from the evils whereas the lower right hand is posed in a way as if to offer her blessings to all (“Bar-Mudra”). The Deity is blue in colour and made of wood derived from “Neem” tree. The room beneath the Central Minar has a white marbled “Shiv linga”

The inner chamber is connected to all the 13 domes through narrow passageways, said to represent the nerves of a human body.

The temple complex has another temple— Ananta Basudeba temple — besides the main temple. There is also the Swanbhaba Kali temple nearby built by Raja Nrisinhadeb Roy Mahasay in 1788. This temple too holds a very special position as a terracotta temple with exquisite terracotta works on it.

In December 1799, Raja Nrisinhadeb Roy Mahasay laid the foundation stone of this temple. But after completion of the second storey in 1802, the founder died leaving this far-famed temple incomplete. His second wife Rani Sankari completed the rest of the work in 1814. The temple is known for its unique ratna architecture.

 

Ananta Basudeba temple is a Hindu temple of Lord Krishna in the Hangseshwari temple complex in Banshberia, Built by Raja Rameswar Datta in 1679, this temple is noted for the exquisite terra cotta works on its walls. It is built in the traditional eka-ratna style, with curved cornices. The tower on top of the temple is octagonal. The terracota works depict stories from the great Indian epics Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as from lilas of Krishna.

The Ananta Basudev Temple follows the typical ekratna style of Bengal Temple Architecture, where the temple is crowned with a single pinnacle. The pinnacle of the Ananta Basudev Temple is octagonal. Three sides of the temple along with the pinnacle is covered with finest terracotta. Terracotta so intricate that it inspired the great poet Rabindranath Tagore. The terracotta panels of Anata Basudev Temple contains an interesting mix, covering religious figures like Kali, Durga and Krishna along with panels of boats & ships, dancing girls, scenes from war and last but not least scenes from daily life.

 

How to Reach Bansberia

By Road: From Bansberia Station to Hanseswari temple it is about five minutes by rickshaw.

By Train: Hanseswari Temple is situated at Banseberia, which is a rail station of Bandel(Jn)-Katwa Main Line is the nearest Rail Station. For reaching Bansberia station, take a train for Bandel from Howrah station and from Bandel station. From Bandel take a train towards Bansberia will take around 10 minutes.

By Air: The nearest Airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata.

 

Timings:

 

Monday to Sunday: 7:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:00 PM – 7:30 PM.

Bhog Timing: Available from 1:00 PM (coupons available before 10:00 AM).

 

Famous Festivals:

Kali Puja: The most significant festival celebrated at the temple with special rituals.

Durga Puja: Celebrated with grandeur, attracting numerous devotees.

Photography and Parking:

Proper dedicated parking is available around 200 meters from the temple in a ground.

Photography is completely allowed. Drones can be used from outside the temple

 

Sirpur Group of Monuments

 

                                                Sirpur Group of Monuments

Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/JRlUhNekrNg

References:

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2020/06/sirpur-group-of-monuments-history.html

 

Sirpur was known as Shripura or Sripura (city of Laxmi, Goddess of wealth, prosperity and auspiciousness). An important Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain settlement of the South Kosala kingdom, Sirpur was the capital city with major commercial and religious significance for the Dakshina kingdom between 5^th and 12^th century CE.

The city was earlier the capital of Sharbhapuriya dynasty in the mid 5^th century CE and then the capital of Paduvamshi dynasty. Inscriptions suggest King Teevardeva in the mid 6^th century and king Shivagupta Balarjuna establishing temples and monasteries for Hindus, Buddhists and Jainas in the 8^th century. Hieun Tsang mentions in his memoirs in 639 AD. Around 10000 Mahayana Buddhist monks or bhikshus used to live here in 100 monasteries. And there were over 100 temples.

The Sirpur Group of Monuments, located 78 km from Raipur, Chhattisgarh, on the banks of the Mahanadi River, is a major 5th–12th century archaeological site.  It represents advanced ancient engineering, particularly in its brick architecture, often considered to be more developed than some Harappan layouts.

As the former capital of the Panduvanshi dynasty, it features significant Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain ruins, including the 7th-century brick-built Laxman Temple, numerous monasteries (viharas), and the ancient city of Shripur.

Key sites and features include:

Laxmana temple

Buddhist monuments

Surang Tila

Other ruins

The decline of Shirpur is related to two theories: First and earthquake levelled the entire region and people abandoned the region. Second the destruction and plunder of the city by invaders like Allauddin Khalji. Discovery of coins supports the invasion. They also suggest about the trade between Delhi sultanate and Dakshina Kosala kingdom.

Surang Tila is also mentioned to be made by extraterrestrial knowledge.

 

How to reach

·         By Air: The nearest airport is Swami Vivekanand Airport (RPR) in Raipur, located about 80–90 km from Sirpur. You can hire a private taxi directly from the airport to Sirpur, which takes around 1.5–2 hours.

·         By Train: Raipur Railway Station is the main railhead. However, Mahasamund Railway Station is closer, at approximately 35 km from the site. Taxis are available at both stations.

·         By Road:

From Raipur: Take National Highway 53 (formerly NH6) eastbound towards Mahasamund and follow the signs for Sirpur.

By Bus: Regular bus services operate from Raipur to Sirpur.

By Taxi: Booking a private car for the day is a convenient option for exploring the various sites (Laxman Temple, Gandheshwar Temple, Surang Tila).

Timings:

The Sirpur Group of Monuments, including the famous Lakshmana Temple in Chhattisgarh, is generally open to visitors daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. This archaeological site in the Mahasamund district, featuring 5th–12th century Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain ruins, is typically accessible during these daylight hours. 

 

Key Visitor Information:

 

·         Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily)

·         Entry Fee (Indian): ₹20 : One ticket is applicable for all the monuments available online or through the counter at Lakshmana temples

·         Entry Fee (Foreigner): ₹250: One ticket is applicable for all the monuments available online or through the counter at Lakshmana temples

 

Parking and Photography:

There is no specific dedicated parking anywhere. The complex is spread across a vast area. So parking should be done outside the temple complexes which you visit. There is no issue in parking.

Photography is allowed. But Drones are not allowed. Drone can only be used near Gangeshwar temple.

Famous Festivals

Key Festivals and Events:

·         Sirpur National Dance and Music Festival: A major cultural event featuring renowned artists (e.g., Kathak exponent Birju Maharaj) and local folk performances, hosted against the backdrop of the Lakshman Temple.

·         Sirpur Heritage Festival: Sometimes scheduled to highlight the archaeological importance of the site.

·         Cultural Significance: These festivals aim to showcase the rich history of the site, which includes remnants of Buddhist monasteries, Hindu, and Jain temples, and they are often held in the landscaped gardens surrounding the temples.

·         Cultural Context: Performances generally begin in the evenings, allowing attendees to explore the historical ruins during the day

Stay Options

Stay options near the Sirpur Group of Temples with the best options being eco-friendly resorts or basic government-run guesthouses. Key choices include the Devbhumi eco-friendly heritage stay near Kodar Dam and options in Mahasamund city, about 35 km away. 

Few stay Options:

·         Devbhumi Eco-Friendly Heritage Stay: Situated near Kodar Dam, this is a nearby option offering a natural setting close to the heritage site and Barnawapara Sanctuary.

·         Chhattisgarh Tourism Accommodation: The tourism department often operates a guesthouse or lodge in Sirpur, providing basic amenities close to the archaeological sites.

·         Mahasamund City Hotels: As Sirpur is a small village, you can find a wider variety of hotels in Mahasamund city, which is 35 km away from the main temple complex.

·         Raipur Hotels: For more premium or diverse options, Raipur, located 78 km from Sirpur, is a popular choice for visitors

Laxmana Temple, Sirpur

Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/JRlUhNekrNg

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sirpur_Group_of_Monuments

inheritage.foundation/heritage/laxman-temple

Location: “953P+6MW Sri Laxman Temple, SH 9, Sirpur, Chhattisgarh 493551”

 

The Lakshmana temple, is a 7th-century brick temple, mostly damaged and ruined.

Built of brick, it stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the Dakshin Kosala period. The sheer scale is impressive. The temple rises on a high plinth ((about 40 by 80 feet (12 m × 24 m)) with wide enough space for circumambulation.), its walls adorned with intricate terracotta panels depicting scenes from the Ramayana, the Puranas, and everyday life. These panels, though weathered by time, retain a remarkable clarity, offering glimpses into the artistic sensibilities and societal norms of a bygone era.

The garbhagriya entrance along with the tower and door carvings of the Lakshmana temple at Sirpur are reasonably intact enough to be studied. Above the sanctum door's lintel are carvings show a reclining Vishnu on Sesha (Anantasayana Vishnu) and a panel on Krishna from Bhagavata Purana. Around the door are bands of carvings which show the ten avatars of Vishnu along with daily life and couples in various stages of courtship and mithuna. The temple itself is built of brick except for the carved frame around the grabha-griya (sanctum) made of stone. The sanctum opens to the east. In front of the sanctum is the outline of an antarala (vestibule), and an oblong mandapa (ceremonial community hall). The hall shows stub places for pillars, all now lost to history. Except for the sanctum and the tower, much is in ruins. The sanctum stone frame outside is a 22 by 22 feet (6.7 m × 6.7 m) square, inside it is about 10 by 10 feet (3.0 m × 3.0 m) square. The sanctum walls are plain like typical Hindu temples. The original statue of sanctum is missing. The site management has installed several small statues for visitors from what was found in the ruins pile.

The lower levels showcased larger, more robust bricks, while the upper sections transitioned to smaller, finer ones, almost creating a sense of visual lightness as the temple ascended. 

The narrative scenes in the terracotta panels were particularly captivating. One panel depicted a royal procession, complete with elephants, horses, and musicians. Another showcased a scene from the Ramayana, possibly the abduction of Sita. The details were astonishing – the expressions on the faces, the intricate headdresses, even the folds of the garments were rendered with remarkable skill. These weren't mere decorations; they were stories etched in clay, offering a window into the rich cultural tapestry of the time.

Architecturally,  The pancharatha plan, with its projections on the walls, creates a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. what truly sets this temple apart is the extensive use of brick. While brick temples are not uncommon, the Laxman Temple showcases a level of sophistication rarely seen in brick construction. The precision of the brickwork, the intricate carvings, and the sheer scale of the structure are a testament to the mastery of the artisans who built it.

 

A museum managed by Archaeological Survey of India in the Lakshmana temple premises preserves the artwork parts and pieces of archaeological ruins found during excavations in the 1950s and in the 2000s. These belong to Shaiva, Vaishnav, Buddha and Jain religions and variously dated to between 6th and 12th centuries

 

Nearby places to visit

• Kodar Dam (7.8 km): Enjoy serene walks and boating just 7.8 km away.
• Barnawapara (25 km): Spot Indian wildlife on thrilling jungle safaris, 25 km from our resort.
• Dhaskund Waterfall (23 km): Witness a breathtaking waterfall just 23 km away.
• Gond Cave (33 km): Experience history and adventure 33 km from the resort. Unforgettable experiences await you!

 

 

Rama Temple and Baleshwara Temple

 

Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/R-4BgPErE_U

References:

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2020/06/rama-temple-sirpur-chattisgarh.html

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sirpur_Group_of_Monuments

Shri Rama temple is situated less than 100 metres (330 ft) southeast of the Lakshmana temple, but it is almost entirely in ruins. The Rama temple site, however, does preserve the foundation outline of several shrines as well as brick stub of the lower part of the original Shri Rama temple

Shri Rama temple, dedicated to Shri Vishnu is situated opposite the Shri Laxmana temple. The brick-built temple is now in complete ruins. The east facing Shri Rama temple Is one of the twin temples constructed over a raised platform built of dressed stones. The temple represents an early example of the regional tradition of temples of South Kosala having stellate plan (star shaped) for construction. Remnants of only one of the twin temples is surviving whereas the other one can be seen in plan only. The original temple consisted of a mandapam and sanctum. The walls of the sanctum, antarala and pillared manadapam remains. The roof and tower over the sanctum was completely lost forever. Few broken idols are housed in the Mandapam. The mandapa and other features of the Rama were destroyed long ago, according to Donald Stadtner, and the Rama temple site is likely to be from about 600 CE. This is one of the earliest star shape jagati platform temple in central India. It may have served as a prototype practice temple, before Sirpur architects of the 7th century built much grander stellate-principle Hindu temples in Kharod, Palari and Rajim

 

 

 

Baleshwar Mahadev temples group is a Shiva temple about 50 metres (160 ft) northwest of the Teevar dev monument, across the Sirpur road. It consists of several temples. For three Shiva temples excavated, a circumambulatory Jagati in the form of a high-rise platform, similar to Lakshmana temple survives.  For another only the foundation is visible. The cluster was built by the Shaiva king Shivagupta Balarjuna, and is dated to the mid-8th century. Two of the temples are located side by side, and unlike most Sirpur temples, these open to the west. Both have a mandapa, an antarala and have a star shaped garbha griya made out of bricks and stone. The stellate sanctum is formed out of two squares, one rotated by 45 degrees. Some of the artwork discovered during excavations are displayed, and these show women and couple standing dressed up in 8th-century attire. The sanctum has Shiva linga made from marble. .The Baleshwar mahadev temple shows foundation and plinth layouts of several temples. The site has yielded numerous statues (predominantly Hindu gods / goddesses / ideas), reliefs, pillars, temple parts and Shiva linga.

The temple is probably dedicated to the Bal avatar of Bhagwan Shiva.

SurangTila-ShivaTemples-GangadhareshwarT-Sirpur

Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/hDlRH22YgWI

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sirpur_Group_of_Monuments

https://www.facebook.com/GoChhattisgarh/videos/369195588390827/

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/travel/chhattisgarh/surang-tila-and-other-ruins/ps47068929.cms

Surang Tila is located in Sirpur, in the Mahasamund District, 78km away from Raipur, Chhattisgarh.The Surang Tila was established by Mahasivagupta Balarjuna during the 7th Century AD, is constructed in the panchayatan style of Temple architecture.Anti-earthquake technology was used in the construction of this temple. Four of the sanctums in the main temple, each has a Shivalinga of a different colour (black, yellow, red and white) for worship which shows unity of devotion. The fifth one has an idol of Lord Ganesha. 

The enormous temple of Surang Tila was unearthed in 2005-06. The temple premises covers a vast area and the main temple stands tall, elevated by a flight of 37 steep limestone steps (closed when we visited). It is believed to have been hit by a devastating earthquake around the 12th century AD, and the steps still bear the visual repercussions of this calamity. The 32-pillared mandapa holds these five sanctums. The complex area has three tantric temples in a platform, dedicated to Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The entry gate was believed to be located near the river flowing adjacent to the temple. This was a practice that was started in the temples of Sirpur, and thereafter, spread to other parts of the country.

 

 

Gandheshwar Temple: an active Shiva temple, Gandheshwar temple is situated on the banks of the Mahanadi River.^[12] From the river, there are stone stairs to walk to the sanctum. The temple is routinely re-washed and re-painted. It likely includes recovered ruins from the area, in which the locals have included Hindu, Buddhist and Jain iconography. A stone slab that is part of the temple wall has a Bhramhi inscription in Nagari script, starting with Om symbol and dedicated to Lord Buddha, which has been dated to the 8th century.

The temple is an active Shiva temple, Gandheshwar temple is situated on the banks of the Mahanadi River From the river, there are stone stairs to walk to the sanctum. It is an eclectic assembly of ancient sculptures and architectural remnants, including statues of Nataraja, Shiva, Varaha, Garuda Narayan, and Mahishasur Mardini. The temple displays numerous stone carvings and has pillars featuring extensive inscriptions in Sanskrit and regional scripts.

The temple is also noteworthy for the local tradition that the Shivling sometimes smells of tulsi leaves, adding to its sacred reputation.

 

Shiva Temples on opposite sides

There are 2 shiva temples on the opposite sides that can be found on moving ahead and turning left after covering the Baleshwar Mahadeva Temple. Not much is mentioned about these two temples, but they too looked to be in ruins with the main structure not available, but Shivlingas being there in the flat structures.