Mukteswara Temple

Mukteswara temple bhubaneshwar is dedicated to Lord Shiva, Mukteswara, is carved with figures of ascetics in several poses of meditation. The highlight of the temple, is the magnificent torana - the decorative gateway, an arched masterpiece, reminiscent of Buddhist influence in Orissa.. The sculptured gateway, the jagamohana with diamond shaped latticed windows and decorated interiors and the plethora of sculptural work all deserve mention in this temple dedicated to Shiva Although it is only a small monument rising to a height of 35 feet. Literally every inch of its surface is carved. This temple has also been described as a dream realized in sandstone and it is a monument where it is said sculpture and architecture are in complete harmony with one another. This 10th century temple built in the year of AD 950, is an important transition point, between the early and the later phases of the Kalinga school of temple architecture. The sculptural decoration of the Mukteswara is exquisitely executed, and it is often referred to as the "gem of Oriya architecture". Richly sculpted, the temple offers pride of place to tales from the Panchatantra. The arched gateway is particularly fine. It also shows excellent combinations of Hindu and Buddhist and Jain features, which find a common voice in much of Orissan temple craft.

Eastern India

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