Brahmeshwar Mahadev Temple
A famous pilgrimage centre uniquely popular for the pristine architecture in Badapathar village in Keonjhar district of Odisha is Brahmeshwar Mahadev temple, devoted to Lord Shiva. It is located among the freshening locations to soothe the mind and soul. The sacred site, dated back to the 7th–8th century CE, speaks to the craftsmanship of the Somavamshi kingdom. Constructors built this temple using granite and sandstone. They adorned it with figures of deities, mystical creatures, celestial nymphs, and floral geometric patterns.
Brahmeshwar Mahadev Temple - Odisha - History
The temple has an ancient history that says that the god of creation, Lord Brahma, has done a maximum of ninety-nine yagnas (worship takes part in a sacred fire with chanting mantras) here. The presiding deity here is in the form of Linga, formed by the sand bed of the Ganges, which later turned into stone and was called Brahmeshwar Mahadev. The temple was built by Kolavatidevi, mother of King Udyota Kesari of the Somavamshi dynasty, with four extremely beautiful natyasalas (dance-performing grounds) in the place known as Siddhatirtha.
Brahmeshwar Mahadev Temple: Architectural Marvel
A testament to the carving skills of the pristine period artists, stunning and intricate carvings show the mythology and life story of Lord Shiva. The shikara (tower) statuesque is about 30 feet above the main shrine, and the walls covered with complete stories are refreshing and enticing to learn about Lord Shiva. An audience hall (Jagamohana) with well-groomed gardens provides a space to spend a good time with family or alone. Colourful crafts adorned the front porch (antarala-vestibule). In 1975, the government of India declared the temple a monument of national importance. One of the exceptional examples of Kalinga period architecture displays the cultural heritage of Odisha may excite you pretty well.
Visiting Hours
Open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Dress Code
It is advisable to avoid revealing attire, and covered costumes are preferred.
Festivals and Fairs of Brahmeshwar Mahadev Temple
Shiva stead is famous for Shivaratri and Dussehra when devotees and visitors celebrate the fairs here with great fervour.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Brahmeshwar Mahadev Temple is around October to February.
How to reach
By Air : Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport from there you can take a cab/taxi to reach your destination to Brahmeshwar Mahadev temple.
By Train :Keonjhar Railway Station is the nearest to reach the Brahmeshwar Mahadev temple. From the railway station, you can hire a cab/taxi to reach the Brahmeshwar Temple.
By Road :From Bhubaneswar or the Keonjhar district the temple could be reached easily with both public and private transportation while roads are well connected.