Located in Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Patalesvara Siva Temple is an impressive representation of Odisha’s spiritual and architectural history. Patalesvara, the shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, dates back to the 6th-7th century. There are relatively few temples in the state that are that old and still exist intact. Thus, the Patalesvara Temple is as good as the oldest temple in the state.
The Patalesvara temple is different when looked at in comparison to the Lingaraj Temple, in which the Patalesvara temple resonates with a charming, mystical feel that attracts worshipers and history enthusiasts alike. The name Patalesvara is translated to “Lord of the Underworld”, which lends a mysterious feel to the temple.
Patalesvara is no different with classic Kalingan architectural features, carvings, a modest yet beautiful sanctum, and the necessary feel of tranquility. Therefore, one could consider visiting Patalesvara Siva Temple if they are looking for a place of divinity or a glimpse into the sacred past of Odisha, as Patalesvara is a glimpse into the spiritual past of Bhubaneswar.
Historical Significance of Patalesvara Siva Temple
The Patalesvara Siva Temple is more than just a site of worship, it is a living record of Odisha’s medieval history. Historians date its construction to the 6th-7th centuries and associate it with the Sailodbhava dynasty that ruled this part of Odisha. The architectural style of the temple is characterized as early Kalinga, evident in its basic yet essential structural features.
It has endured invasions and a slow erosion of time, but its spiritual existence remains untouched. It is said that Patalesvara was once part of a larger complex, and legends persist of buildings still buried beneath the ground – hence the name “Patalesvara” (Lord of the Netherworld).
While the Lingaraj Temple gets all the pubic attention and historical research, the untouched and raw beauty of Patalesvara is historically very significant in our understanding of the development of temple architecture in Odisha. For those with any interest in ancient heritage, it is a required stop.
Architectural Marvels of Patalesvara Siva Temple
While the other temples of Bhubaneswar are more majestic, this temple has no less architectural quality. There is a notion of antiquity of the early Kalinga stylistic traditions in the architecture of this pancharatha temple, which presents a rekha deul (tower) with naked decor.
A Siva Lingam exists in the sanctum, and there are only girls and floral embroidered images accentuated on the outside wall of this temple. While Mukteswar Temple shines in glittering beauty, Patalesvara’s beauty is in its simplicity. By the erosion of time, another side of the mandapa (hall) of this temple has already collapsed, but the remaining side still echoes its grandeur like old times.
While many scholars study this temple to sense the gradual evolution from Gupta architecture to Kalinga style. The Patalesvara Siva Temple remains an undisclosed architectural wonder waiting to be discovered by many architecture enthusiasts.
Spiritual and Cultural Importance
The Patalesvara Siva Temple is an evolving center of faith and culture, not merely an ancient building. People make religious pilgrimages to Patalesvara Siva Temple believing that religious worship at this ancient site will help them obtain safeguarding and blessings from the Lord Shiva, especially during Shivaratri, when people’s devotion reaches a fever pitch through phenomena and stillness across the day.
While it can be difficult not to approach the Lingaraj Temple during your time in Bhubaneswar, you may have more luck connecting in prayer and meditation at Patalesvara, if that is what you are aspiring to do. Local folklore has it that the temple, particularly the underground areas, has innumerable mythical stories to tell, and this type of promise ignites the spiritual dimension of this temple site.
In addition to its vital spiritual dimension, Patalesvara Temple plays an important role as a site in keeping Shaivite traditions in Odisha alive; it is an important cultural and architectural landmark. Whether you have come to Bhubaneswar as a pilgrim or space that has confused cultural interests, either way, Patalesvara Siva Temple should provide a rich experience.
Visitor Tips and Nearby Attractions
Are you planning on visiting the Patalesvara Siva Temple? Here is a list of things to know: The temple is open from sunrise to sunset, and there is no entry fee. While the temple is located in Old Town Bhubaneswar, you can easily do this in conjunction with your visits to Lingaraj Temple, Mukteswar Temple, and Raja Rani Temple.
As a holy shrine, remember to dress modestly, as it is an active place of worship. You are allowed to take photographs, but should not disturb any rituals while doing so. The best time of day to see this Temple is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to have a calm and quiet experience.
Don’t forget to check out the local markets and buy some local and traditional Odia handicrafts. Visiting the Patalesvara Siva Temple will be an entire experience in time, faith, and craft.
