Situated in the same complex as the Mukteshvara Temple and associated smaller shrines, the east-facing sandstone Siddhesvara (Siddheshwar or Siddheswar) Temple is believed to have been constructed during the rule of Kapilendra in the 15th century A.D.
The present temple is thought to have been built over a much older shrine, and is a great example of a shift away from the richly embellished exterior of temples that were built earlier. Instead, temples of this period started to achieve a grander appearance by raising the height of the Gandi (sanctuary tower), which would have resulted in them being far more visible and impressive in the wider landscape.
Despite little ornamentation on the exterior of the temple, there are sculptures in two of the niches; Ganesha in the east niche standing on a lotus pedestal, and the four-armed Kartikeya in the south niche.
Within the temple, the presiding deity is a Siva lingam within a circular laterite yonipitha.
Set within pretty landscaped and well tended grounds, the temple can be easily visited at the same time as the neighbouring Mukteshvara Temple. I would recommend avoiding weekends to visit this and nearby temples, as it can get quite busy.
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Categories: Bhubaneswar, India, Odisha, Siddheshwar Temple
It’s beautiful and excellent photography.Best regards,VRMore
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