Rajarani Temple, Bhubaneshwar, India

The Rajarani Temple in Bhubaneshwar was built in the mid 11th century AD. The temple has no images within the sanctum (probably stolen), but it is believed to have been dedicated to Lord Shiva on the basis of the carvings on the exterior. For instance, the dvarapalas (doorkeepers) carved on either side of the entrance - Prachanda and Chanda - are found in Saivite temples, while the lintel of the jagamohana (mandapa) has an image of Lakulisa, the founder of the Pasupatha sect of Saivisim. Some historians believe that the architecture of some temples of Central India, such as the Khajuraho Temples, originated from this temple. 

The name of the temple is peculiar and has been a source of confusion for historians for it is not clear how it originated. Most historians believe that the temple derives its name from the red and yellow sandstone used in its construction, which is locally called Rajarani. I found that the facade carvings of the Rajarani temple, particularly those of the guardian deities of the eight directions (ashtadikpalas), are very attractive, and in this respect it even exceeded those of the Mukteshwar Temple which is regarded as the "gem" of Kalinga architecture. The visit to the temple was a pleasant experience, not only because of the graceful architecture, but also because of the well-manicured gardens in the temple complex.

The Rajarani temple has a pyramidal entrance hall called jagamohana or mandapa, and a towering spire called deul or shikhara or vimana that rises to a height of 59 feet. The shikhara is surrounded by a cluster of miniature towers (angashikharas), like the towers of the Khajuraho temples.

The front view of the temple

A Lion perched  on top of the pyramidal jagamohana, guarding the entrance. Lion guardians are a common element of temple architecture across the world, including Mesoamerica where the lions are replaced by jaguars.

The top of the spire.  The stone disk with ridges on the rim is called the amalaka, and the pot on top of it is called kalasha, which contains the nectar of immortality (amrita). Not sure about those squatting figures supporting the amalaka.

The impressive entrance, flanked by round columns entwined by a naga and nagin, who are welcoming the visitor with garlands. The small Saiva dwarapalas (doorkeepers) carved on either side of the entrance called Prachanda and Chanda supports the hypothesis that it was a Shiva temple.

The beautifully crafted carving of a Naga entwined around the entrance pillar. The Nagas in Indian mythology are the serpent-people who live underwater in their jewelled palaces and possess magical prowess.

 

A Side view of the temple, with its jagamohana and vimana

A beautiful balustrade window. The pillars on the side are supported by lions, which are so strong that they have subdued elephants. These lions are also known as Yalis or Vyalas in South Indian temples.

The exquisitely carved temple spire. It has carvings of the eight dikpalas (protectors of the cardinal and intercardinal directions) and elegant nayikas in various poses.

An empty niche flanked by highly intricate carvings of nayikas. The niche probably had a deity figure which has been stolen.

A miniature temple flanked by naga sculptures.

A Yali rider. For more information on the Yali, and its depiction on an Indus seal, read my article: The Yali Symbol on an Indus seal and its connection to Kartikeya-Murugan

Agni, the God of Fire, and the protector of the South-east direction.

Varuna, the Lord of the Waters, and the protector of the West. Varuna is holding a Pasha (noose) which is symbolically equivalent to the Egyptian Ankh, as I have discussed in my article: The Egyptian Ankh and the Hindu Pasha are equivalent Symbols

Kubera, the Lord of Wealth, and the protector of the North.