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Bhubaneswari Temple
Front view of the Bhubaneswari Temple. Image source: Wikimedia Commons
The Bhubaneswari temple in Tripura cradles a legacy of rich cultural and architectural heritage. Erected between 1667 - 1676 A.D, under the patronage of Maharaja Govinda Manikya (1660 CE - 1661 CE, 1667 CE - 1676 CE), this venerable temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhubaneshwari. Nestled in Udaipur, adjacent to the now dilapidated palace of Govinda Manikya, the temple stands as a testament to the splendour of bygone eras. Udaipur, formerly the epicentre of the Manikya dynasty, also served as its capital before the capital was moved to Agartala. Besides reflecting the rich cultural traditions of the past, the Bhubaneswari temple offers a scenic view of the Gomati River. Within its precincts lies a spacious courtyard encircled by smaller shrines dedicated to various deities.
Side view of the Bhubaneswari Temple. Image source: Wikimedia Commons
The Bhubaneswari temple reflects a set of unique architectural features. Elevated on a 3 ft. high paved terrace, it boasts a roof fashioned in the traditional Char-Chala (four-slanted roof) style, adorned with stupa-like crowns at the entrance and core chamber. Elaborate floral motifs embellish the stupa atop the central chamber. According to reports, the architectural design of the temple draws inspiration from the traditional art of Bengal, predominantly showcased through the use of brick and terracotta.
The adoption of hut-style architecture for temple construction stemmed from the evolution of local cults present during that given time. Many local deities in the region, previously worshipped in simple huts, found their new homes in brick temples mirroring their original form. This transition from mud and thatch to brick was subsequently extended to stucco and concrete construction, marking a significant evolution in architectural practices.
The Bhubaneswari temple attracts visitors from across the region, especially during the occasions of Durga Puja and Kali Puja. However, devotees visit the temple regularly to offer prayers and seek blessings. Additionally, a Monday fair is organised on the temple grounds for devotees of Lord Shiva. According to one of the legends, the temple is said to have been erected on the site where Lord Shiva performed the ‘Rudra Tandava’, a celestial dance of destruction.
A view of the Gomati river, Tripura. Image source: Wikimedia Commons
Another legend about this temple holds that once, a young girl saw the Gomati River being drenched with blood from animal sacrifices. Troubled by this sight, she questioned Maharaja Govinda Manikya about the rationale behind these sacrifices. Startled by her inquiry, the king recognized the flaw in the tradition and promptly imposed a complete ban on animal sacrifices throughout his realm. This incident, depicting Maharaja Govinda Manikya's transformation into a benevolent ruler, later served as inspiration for Nobel Laureate, Rabindranath Tagore's renowned novel 'Rajarshi'. The term 'Rajarshi', signifying the fusion of a 'Raja' (king) and a 'Rishi' (saint), symbolises the evolution of Govinda Manikya into a saintly monarch. Drawing from this novel, Tagore also crafted his drama titled 'Bisarjan'. As a mark of tribute to Kaviguru Rabindranath Tagore, the Government of Tripura organises the ‘Rajarshi Utsav’ on the Bhubaneswari temple premises every year.
The Bhubaneswari temple, unique for its architectural magnificence, continues to represent the rich cultural traditions of this region. Over time, this ancient monument has preserved the flawless craftsmanship of 17th-century temple architecture, serving as a timeless symbol of the region's cultural legacy.
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