Parashurameshvara Temple
Parsurameswar temple is one the oldest existing temples in Bhubaneswar. The temple is the one of the Parasumeswar group of temples that are considered the oldest temples in Bhubaneswar.
Parsurameswar temple is the first temple to have an additional structure called jagamohana (hall of worshipers) added its structure compared to the earlier temples that had only the vimana (sanctum). The carvings of the temple include a variety of fruits, flowers, birds and animals depicted in scenes and parts of designs.
The floral design trailing from the tail of a bird is common between the temple and the ones in Vaital Deula, while the motif of vase and flowers is common between the temple and the ones in Mukteshwar Temple.
As per some historians, Parsurameswar temple is believed to have been built in the early 8th century A.D., following the initial set of Satruguneswar, Bharateswar and Lakshmaneswar temples of the late 7th century, but historian K.C.Panigrahi places the date as 650 A.D. Fergusson believes that the temple might have been initiated at around 500 A.D.
The mid-seventh century date is agreed by most scholars based on style and the presence of the eight planets which appear over the door to the inner sanctum as the later temples are believed to have nine planets.Parsurmeswar temple was built by the Sailodbhavas, who had Shiva as their family deity.
The Sailodbhavas also respected the Sakta elements of different gods and depicted Sakta images on the walls of the temple. The temple was repaired in 1903, with some changes in the roof of the inner sanctum, whilst retaining most of the original structure.
Being located in the eastern coast, the temple, along with the other Orissan temples were not much affected by the Muslim invaders during the 12-13th centuries. In modern times, the temple is maintained and administered by the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) as a ticketed monument.
Near Bindu Sagar Pond, 7th Century A.D., Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002
Bhubaneswar
098402 15548
,,
