Chapter 2: Kalinga Temple Architecture

Kalinga temple architecture is known for its elaborate towers or shikharas, which rise up from the center of the temple. These shikharas are often adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, and are a defining feature of Kalinga temple architecture. This architectural style was said to be influenced by the Dravidian and Nagara architectural styles in certain ways.

One of the most famous examples of Kalinga temple architecture is the Sun Temple in Konark, which was built in the 13th century CE by King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty. It is believed that the temple was built to commemorate the military successes of the king and to serve as a place of worship for the people. The temple is dedicated to the Sun God and is shaped like a giant chariot, with 12 pairs of carved wheels representing the months of the year. The temple's shikhara is over 30 meters high and is adorned with intricate carvings of deities, mythical beasts, and celestial dancers. The carvings are so detailed that they seem to come alive when the sunlight falls on them, earning the temple the nickname "the Black Pagoda". The temple's location on the coast of Odisha has led to its deterioration over the centuries due to weathering and natural disasters such as cyclones and earthquakes. Nevertheless, the temple remains an important cultural symbol and an architectural marvel. Currently it holds the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Another important temple in Kalinga architecture is the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple dates back to the 11th century CE and is one of the largest and most impressive temples in the region. The temple's shikhara is 54 meters high and is adorned with carvings of gods, goddesses, mythical creatures, and is capped by an amalaka (a circular stone structure). The temple complex is surrounded by several smaller temples. The components of the temple are Bhoga mandapa (hall of offerings), Natya mandira (hall of functions and festivals), Jagamohana (assembly hall), and Vimana (Garbhagriha or sanctum sanctorum containing the “Linga”) The garbhagriha is surrounded by a circumambulatory path or pradakshina path, which is used by devotees during the worship of the deity. The Temple also incorporates several unique features such as the temple tank, which is located on the eastern side of the temple complex. The tank is used for ceremonial purposes and is believed to have healing properties.

Another important temple is the The Jagannath Temple in Puri. It is one of the most revered Hindu temples in India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu It is a massive structure that covers an area of over 400,000 square feet. It has four gates, each facing a different cardinal direction, and is surrounded by a wall that is nearly 20 feet high. The temple is built on an elevated platform, which is reached through a flight of 22 steps. The temple's main tower or Shikhara rises to a height of over 200 feet and is adorned with several smaller towers and sculptures. The temple complex includes several smaller shrines dedicated to various deities, as well as a kitchen that is one of the largest in the world.

Other notable temples of this style are Mukteswara temple, Raja Rani Temple, etc. The Kalinga temples feature intricate carvings depicting scenes from mythology, history, and everyday life, as well as geometric patterns and floral motifs. The temples built in this style are not just religious centers but also serve as cultural and artistic heritage, highlighting the creativity and skill of the craftsmen who built them.