Mukteshwar Temple, Bhubaneshwar, India

The Mukteshwar Temple at Bhubaneshwar, Orissa, was built between 960 - 975 AD by the Somavanshi Kings. The term Mukteshwar means "Lord of Freedom", and the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva who grants us freedom from our illusions.

The exquisite carvings on the temple walls, and the unique arched "torana" or gateway, has led this temple to be regarded as the "Gem of Kalinga Architecture". This temple is a must-visit when one is in Bhubaneshwar. The evenings are supposed to be the best time to visit, as the rays of the setting sun falls on the red sandstone walls of the temple. 

The arched "torana" or gateway, which is unique to this temple and is not found in any other temple in the region.

The decorated torana has makaras on either end.

The temple has a pyramidal entrance porch called jagamohana and a curvilinear spire which is called deul in Orissa and  shikhara / vimana in other parts of India. Although the temple is not very high (34 feet), it has some of the most elaborate and beautiful carvings on red sandstone.

The ornate temple entrance. The temple faces west, and evenings are the best time to visit the temple so that one can catch the effects of the falling light on the red sandstone.

A beautiful scroll pattern above the entrance.

A Naga pilaster

Graceful nayikas in different poses are carved on the temple walls

An exquisitely carved latticed window on the wall of the jagamohana.

Miniature temples sculpted on the wall of the jagamohana

The Nagas are generally shown welcoming the visitors with garlands.

The ornate temple spire is called deul (shikhara or vimana elsewhere in India)

Miniature temples, nagas, and nayikas

The Yali or gaja-vyala which combines the characterestics of a lion and elephant. The Yali acts as a protector of the temple premises. This sculpture shows a woman warrior mounted on the Yali. The symbolism of the Yali was known to the Indus people. For more information read my article: "The Yali Symbol on Indus Seals and its connection to Kartikeya-Murugan"

A empty niche on the temple wall, with exquisite decorations. The niche probably held a sculpture that has been removed. These empty niches can be found in so many ancient temples, which gives an idea of the amount of ancient artwork that has been lost.

A last look at the captivating arched torana while exiting the temple. On the other side is another temple complex called Siddheswara Temple. Bhubaneshwar is truly a "Temple Town" with many beautifully sculpted temples located in close proximity to each other.