News: The Odisha government has decided to give a facelift to the 11th century Lingaraj Temple, akin to its pre-350-year structural status.
Facts:
- Lingaraj Temple: It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva and is one of the oldest temples in Bhubaneswar,Odisha.
- Built by: It is believed to be built by the kings from the Somavamsi dynasty with later additions from the Ganga rulers.
- Architecture: The temple is a classic example of Kalinga style of architecture.
- Style: It is built in the Deula style that has four components: vimana (structure containing the sanctum), jagamohana (assembly hall), nata mandira (festival hall) and bhoga-mandapa (hall of offerings).
Additional Facts:
- Kaḷinga architectural style: It is a style of Hindu architecture which flourished in the ancient Kalinga or present Odisha.
- Styles: The style consists of three distinct types of temples: Rekha Deula, Pidha Deula and Khakhara Deula.
- The former two are associated with Vishnu, Surya and Shiva temples while the third is mainly with Chamunda and Durga temples.
- The Rekha Deula and Khakhara Deula houses the sanctum sanctorum while the Pidha Deula constitutes outer dancing and offering halls.
