News Bhubaneswar: Where Divinity...

Bhubaneswar: Where Divinity Finds Its Home

OFC Communications Team
July 24 2023

Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, is fondly known as the "Temple City" as it is home to around 700 temples.


The spiritual atmosphere and cultural vitality of the city continue to draw tourists, offering a fascinating window into the divine heritage of this holy city. The name "Bhubaneswar" is derived from the Sanskrit words "Bhuban" - world or universe and "eswar" - Lord or God, collectively translating to "Lord of the Universe."
 


The temples in this city are remarkable examples of the architectural heritage of the region, beautifully reflecting the tradition of Odissi dance, the richness of Odia culture, and the ancient history they hold. This city has earned its name as the temple city for a compelling reason – one can discover a temple within a radius of just two to three kilometers. Majestic and awe-inspiring, they stand tall, narrating tales of devotion and spirituality. Amongst the most ancient and grand temples in Bhubaneswar, the Lingaraj temple takes prominence. It is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva and is widely known for its astonishing height of 180 feet. Constructed in the 11th century, this temple is adorned with captivating sculptures and carvings. It attracts countless devotees and tourists, particularly during the festival of Jagara (Maha Shivratri).
 


Another noteworthy temple is the Mukteshwar Temple, with its unique architectural style, represents both the old and innovative temple designs found in Bhubaneswar. It showcases the city's artistic prowess and the evolution of temple architecture in the region. The Rajarani temple, a masterpiece of Odisha Temple Architecture, was constructed during the 11th century AD. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple showcases a unique architectural design with a tower resembling a beehive placed above the Sanctum Sanctorum. Over time, the temple's red and yellow sandstone, known as Rajarania, develops a charming amber hue that enhances its aesthetic appeal. The Rama Temple, situated in the heart of the city, showcases architectural brilliance and reflects pure devotion. The temple's red and white theme highlights its extraordinary beauty, leaving a lasting impression. During Ram Navami, the temple attracts a significant gathering of devotees.
 


The Ananta Vasudeva Temple in Bhubaneswar is a renowned ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It showcases the distinctive Kalinga architecture and houses the divine idols of Lord Balarama, Lord Krishna, and Goddess Shubhadra. The temple's kitchen prepares sacred Mahaprasad (Abhada), which is served to devotees at the nearby Bhoga Bazaar.
 


The temple stands adorned with meticulously carved pillars, walls, and spires, beautifully depicting Vaishnavite scriptures. Apart from these ancient temples, Bhubaneswar is also home to other significant spiritual landmarks. One of them is Dhauli, situated on the banks of the Daya River, which is known for its iconic peace pagoda, built in 1972 by the Japan Buddha Sangha and the Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha, commemorating Ashoka's transformation into a peaceful ruler after the Kalinga War in 261 BC.

The three-day Kalinga Dhauli Mahotsav in February features renowned artists performing classical music, dance, and martial arts.
 


In summary, Bhubaneswar has a magnificent display of its temples, a spiritual atmosphere, and a rich cultural heritage to offer. With festivals such as Raja, Durga Puja, Nua Khai, and Rath Jatra, the city comes alive and displays its cultural vibrancy and divine heritage.
 


Exploring the architectural wonders and historical narratives of Bhubaneswar allows for a deep connection with the divine. Visitors are invited to embark on a spiritual and cultural journey where past and present blend harmoniously, leaving a lasting impression on their hearts and souls. This sacred city truly invites all to experience its beauty and embrace its spiritual and cultural offerings.

#OdishaFC

Bhubaneswar: Where Divinity Finds Its Home

OFC Communications Team
July 24 2023

Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, is fondly known as the "Temple City" as it is home to around 700 temples.


The spiritual atmosphere and cultural vitality of the city continue to draw tourists, offering a fascinating window into the divine heritage of this holy city. The name "Bhubaneswar" is derived from the Sanskrit words "Bhuban" - world or universe and "eswar" - Lord or God, collectively translating to "Lord of the Universe."
 


The temples in this city are remarkable examples of the architectural heritage of the region, beautifully reflecting the tradition of Odissi dance, the richness of Odia culture, and the ancient history they hold. This city has earned its name as the temple city for a compelling reason – one can discover a temple within a radius of just two to three kilometers. Majestic and awe-inspiring, they stand tall, narrating tales of devotion and spirituality. Amongst the most ancient and grand temples in Bhubaneswar, the Lingaraj temple takes prominence. It is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva and is widely known for its astonishing height of 180 feet. Constructed in the 11th century, this temple is adorned with captivating sculptures and carvings. It attracts countless devotees and tourists, particularly during the festival of Jagara (Maha Shivratri).
 


Another noteworthy temple is the Mukteshwar Temple, with its unique architectural style, represents both the old and innovative temple designs found in Bhubaneswar. It showcases the city's artistic prowess and the evolution of temple architecture in the region. The Rajarani temple, a masterpiece of Odisha Temple Architecture, was constructed during the 11th century AD. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple showcases a unique architectural design with a tower resembling a beehive placed above the Sanctum Sanctorum. Over time, the temple's red and yellow sandstone, known as Rajarania, develops a charming amber hue that enhances its aesthetic appeal. The Rama Temple, situated in the heart of the city, showcases architectural brilliance and reflects pure devotion. The temple's red and white theme highlights its extraordinary beauty, leaving a lasting impression. During Ram Navami, the temple attracts a significant gathering of devotees.
 


The Ananta Vasudeva Temple in Bhubaneswar is a renowned ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It showcases the distinctive Kalinga architecture and houses the divine idols of Lord Balarama, Lord Krishna, and Goddess Shubhadra. The temple's kitchen prepares sacred Mahaprasad (Abhada), which is served to devotees at the nearby Bhoga Bazaar.
 


The temple stands adorned with meticulously carved pillars, walls, and spires, beautifully depicting Vaishnavite scriptures. Apart from these ancient temples, Bhubaneswar is also home to other significant spiritual landmarks. One of them is Dhauli, situated on the banks of the Daya River, which is known for its iconic peace pagoda, built in 1972 by the Japan Buddha Sangha and the Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha, commemorating Ashoka's transformation into a peaceful ruler after the Kalinga War in 261 BC.

The three-day Kalinga Dhauli Mahotsav in February features renowned artists performing classical music, dance, and martial arts.
 


In summary, Bhubaneswar has a magnificent display of its temples, a spiritual atmosphere, and a rich cultural heritage to offer. With festivals such as Raja, Durga Puja, Nua Khai, and Rath Jatra, the city comes alive and displays its cultural vibrancy and divine heritage.
 


Exploring the architectural wonders and historical narratives of Bhubaneswar allows for a deep connection with the divine. Visitors are invited to embark on a spiritual and cultural journey where past and present blend harmoniously, leaving a lasting impression on their hearts and souls. This sacred city truly invites all to experience its beauty and embrace its spiritual and cultural offerings.

#OdishaFC