Enjoying the reputation of being the “Temple City of India”, Bhubaneshwar has carved a niche for itself on the Orissa tourism map. Flocked by devotees and leisure tourists alike, Bhubaneshwar is dotted with some more than 500 temples that are manifestations of the exquisite Orissan architecture. Among the Holy Places in Bhubaneshwar, Brahmeswar Mandir in Bhubaneshwar, India, enjoys a special importance. The temple located at a distance of about 1 km from the Jagannath-Puri main road, is counted among one of the architectural accomplishments that deserve a special visit.
History of Brahmeswar Mandir Bhubaneshwar
The genesis of Bhubaneshwar’s Brahmeswar Mandir can be traced back to some time between 1055 and1065. Kolavati is credited with the construction of the temple. According to the historical records, Kolavati was the mother of Udyotakesari, the Somavansi King. The temple was commissioned to be built on the eighteenth year of his reign.
Description of Brahmeswar Mandir Bhubaneshwar
The Brahmeswar Mandir illustrates the innovative and mature style of temple architecture in Orissa. The temple stands in the midst of a courtyard and is flanked by smaller structures. One of the remarkable features of the temple is its tower that shoots up to a height of 18 meters. It was during the construction of this temple that iron beams, as means of support, were used by the builders. The Brahmeswar Mandir is the second temple after Mukteshwara that flaunts an intricately carved Jagamohana. The sculptures that grace the temple are extremely detailed and corroborate the skilled workmanship of the Orissan artists. The Brahmeswar Mandir shows a striking similarity with the Raj Rani Mandir in the erotic sculptures that are used as adornments in both of them. Besides these there are the figurines of dancers and musicians with the lion-head motif used quite liberally.
