Rajarani Temple is an 11th-century CE Hindu temple located in the capital city of Odisha, Bhubaneswar, India. The temple is a perfect example of the Rekha Deula style under Kalinga Architecture.
The shrine is called Raja Rani because it is made of yellow and red sandstone. These two colours are locally called ‘Raja Rani’. It is locally known as a “love temple” because of the erotic carvings of women men and couples in the temple. Since there are no images of any deity inside the sanctum, some believe it to be the Lord Shiva Temple and some believe it is the Lord Vishnu Temple.
Rajarani temple was originally called as Indreshvara after its imperial patron Indraratha Mahabhavagupta III (1000 1020 A.D.).
Temple Structure
Rajarani Temple is a specimen of Kalinga Panchratha style.
Rajarani Temple stands on a raised platform. The Odia temples have two parts namely the sanctum (deul) and the other is the place from where pilgrims view the sanctum (called jagamohana). The jagamohana (porch), though demonstrating a pyramidal structure, takes on the status of a complete structure on its own. This part was repaired in the early 1900s.
The vimana is square in plan, and the walls are variegated by ressaults (called rathas or pagas). Amalaka (also called mastaka), a stone disk with ridges on the rim, is placed over the bada (tower) of the temple.
The temple is ornamented with multiple sculptures and art pieces all around its outer walls. Dikpalas (guardians of directions), and Naga-Nagin on the pillars are primary features along with many other sculptures.
The tower is mostly decorated with graceful, slim, tall females carved in deep relief, standing on elaborate pedestals, flowers or surrounded by plant motifs, in various moods, exhibiting feminine charms. They are more elongated and accentuated in pose compared to the females on other temples. Their jewellery and costumes are exhibited in great detail. Their faces, with chiselled noses and large eyes, smile sweetly. In highly decorated niches, sparsely clothed charming females in three body bends with round hips are engaged in activities
like fondling a child, leaning on a tree trunk, showing off an anklet or holding a tray in hand.
The Department of Tourism of the Government of Odisha organizes a Rajarani music festival at the temple every year from 18 to 20 January.
