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Odisha Part 8: The Parasurameshwara Temple, Bhubaneshwar

The Parasurameshwara temple is one of the oldest temples in Bhubaneshwar, dating back to the early 8 th century CE. It is also one of the more intriguing temples, with a wide variety of very interesting sculptures. This temple has been attributed to the Shailodbhavas , who were Shaivites. The dynasty is named for their founder, Shailodbhava, who is said to have emerged from a rock, by the grace of Lord Shiva, in response to a prayer by a man from Kalinga, to create a man capable of ruling the earth. That this temple is dedicated to Shiva is clear, not only from the Shaiva dwarapalas who guard the entrance, but also from the numerous sculptures depicting Shiva in his many forms. However, what makes this temple very interesting is the presence of multiple images of the goddesses, especially the Saptamatrikas. The presence of different forms of the goddess, a panel depicting the marriage of Shiva and Parvati, as well as an image of Ardhanareeshwara suggest a strong Shakta influence o...
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Wish you all a Merry Christmas!
From
Samhith, Shankar and Anu

When you read this, I will be travelling, first to Hampi and then to Puttaparthi, trying to get in some more places along the way. A new trip does not mean that I am through with my Tirupati posts. I have just finished with the town of Tirupati, but there is more coming up, about places around. So, keep coming here and leaving your precious comments. There can be no better gift for me than a load of comments! I shall reply to all of you when I get back!

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