The Lingaraj Temple located in Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, which is also known as the City of Temples, is not just a place of worship but is a wonderful symbol of India’s religious unity and architectural splendor. This huge Shiva temple, built in the eleventh century, still remains a living example of thousands of years old Kalinga architecture. Devotees believe that Lord Lingaraja is present here in the form of Harihar, that is, the power of both Lord Shiva and Vishnu is contained in this Linga.
This temple is the center of religious and cultural pride of Odisha, where thousands of devotees throng every day for darshan and on the occasion of Mahashivratri it becomes an ocean of faith. According to mythology, when Lord Shiva left Kashi in search of a serene and holy place, he made Bhubaneswar his permanent residence and appeared here in the form of Linga.
Also read: Dilwara Temple: Know everything here from the structure of the temple to its history.
Specialty of Lingaraj Temple
The Lingaraja Temple of Bhubaneswar is considered to be the grandest example of ancient Kalinga architecture of Odisha. This temple is dedicated to Lord Harihar, who is considered to be the union of both Lord Shiva (Hara) and Lord Vishnu (Hari). The biggest feature of this temple is that the energy of Lord Vishnu himself is considered to reside in the Shivalinga here. This temple was built by Somavanshi king Yayati Keshari in the 11th century and the main spire which is about 180 feet high further enhances its grandeur.
There are about 150 small temples built in the temple complex, which are dedicated to deities like Lord Shiva, Parvati, Ganesha, Kartikeya, Vishnu, Surya and Chandra. This temple is one of the most ancient and prominent temples of Bhubaneswar, which is still a vibrant place of worship.
religious belief of the temple
Lingaraja Temple is considered a symbol of unification, that is, Lord Shiva and Vishnu are worshiped together here. Devotees believe that by coming here one’s sins are destroyed, one attains salvation and all the sorrows of life end. It is also believed that bathing in the water of Lingaraja temple (called ‘Bindusagar’) cures all diseases and sins.
Lakhs of devotees come here on the day of Mahashivratri. On this day, a grand procession of Lord Lingaraj is taken out and Lord Shiva is worshiped throughout the night.
Mythological story related to Lingaraj temple
According to mythological belief, Lord Shiva himself left Kashi in search of a beautiful place and he finally came to a Cuttack forest (now Bhubaneswar). Here he experienced great peace and divinity, so he decided to reside here in the form of Linga. This place later became famous as Ekeshwar (the only God), which later came to be known as ‘Lingaraja’.
According to another legend, when Lord Vishnu killed Hiranyakashipu, the powers of both Lord Shiva and Vishnu merged at this place, giving rise to the Harihar Linga. Therefore this temple is considered a symbol of the unity of both the gods.
Beliefs and beliefs related to the temple
This temple is not only from the religious point of view but is also a symbol of spiritual unity. Devotees coming here believe that visiting Lingaraj temple removes all the troubles of life and by the grace of Lord Lingaraj one gets peace, health and prosperity.
It is also said that the devotees who go to Puri and have darshan of Jagannath after having darshan of Lingaraj in Bhubaneswar, attain special virtue.
Way to reach Lingaraj Temple
- place: The temple is located in the center of Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha.
- Nearest Railway Station: Bhubaneswar Railway Station approximately 4 kilometers away.
- Nearest Airport: Bhubaneswar Biju Patnaik International Airport is about 3 kilometers from the temple.
- Road route: The temple can be easily reached from any part of the city by auto, taxi or bus.
- There are other famous pilgrimage sites near the temple like Bindu Sagar Lake, Mukeshwar Temple, and Rajarani Temple.
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