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Unique Khakara Architecture of Baideswar Durga Temple

Dec
2019
05
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In Kalingan architectural style "Khakara" is an exceptional one. The word Khakara is derived from Kakharu (Pumpkin) as the crown appears to be barrel-vaulted extended roof. These types of temples are usually from very ancient period, close to 8th to 10th century, when rulers of either Bhumakara or Somavamsi dynasty used to rule over Odisha (Kalinga). Apart from two prominent Khakara temples, Baitala Deula (Bhubaneswar) and Varahi Temple (Chaurasi), one more such amazing architecture is found in Baideswar Village of Cuttack district. 

I recently got an opportunity to visit this ancient shrine last month. The temple is situated in the right bank of Mahanadi in Baideswar village, about 9 kms north east direction of Kalapathara square on the old Jagannath Sadaka.

The 8th Century Bhaumakara's built temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga (Eight armed Mahisamardini form). Though, smaller in size, the temple has some really interesting sculptures in its wall like the Eka Pada Bhairava and Andhakasura Baddha depictions. Built in a very rare Khakara architectural style, the exterior walls of the temple are ornamentally carved with sculptural motifs and scroll works.

The temple's architecture is Triratha in plan and in elevation it is Triangabada. Architectural motifs like Vajramundis and Chaitya designs decorate the temple. The jangha section of the temple is adorned with Vajramundis niches of Mahisamardini Durga, Parvati, Eka Pada Bhairava etc. In the Chaitya medallion section unique sculptures like Andhakasura Baddha image of Lord Shiva, Aja Eka pada bhairava shrines are excellently carved. In the Gandi section, images of Nataraja Shiva & Ganesha are depicted.

Durga Temple of Baideswar is an identified spot of state archaeological department; also it is not very far from the famous Trikuta Dhama of Baideswar (Baidyanath, Rameswar and Singhanath). 

It's exceptional architectural style & ancientness really adds values to the tourism map of Odisha and makes it an important religious destination of Cuttack district. 

05 Dec 2019
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By Deepak Kumar Nayak

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