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Lingaraja

temple, Bhubaneswar, India

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The Lingaraja Temple is a Hindu temple located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India. It is a prime example of the Oriya style of North Indian temple architecture, which fully developed by the 11th century. The temple is dedicated to Shiva and features a distinctive shikhara, a tower that rises above the sanctuary.1

Architecturally, the temple follows the North Indian style, typically consisting of a square sanctuary (garbhagriha) preceded by pillared halls (mandapas). The exterior walls are adorned with sculptures, and the interior is often richly carved. The Lingaraja Temple is noted for its elevated wall and elaborate spire, representing the Oriya style in its most developed form. It stands as a significant example of temple-building activity in Bhubaneswar, a city renowned for its numerous temples.1

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