Phanikeshwar Nath Mahadev Temple, Fingeshwar, Chattisgarh

Phanikeshwar Nath Mahadev Temple, Fingeshwar, Chattisgarh

Phanikeshwar Nath Mahadev Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to the Lord Shiva located in Fingeshwar in Gariaband district in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh. This Temple is one among the five Shiva Temples of Rajim-Panchkoshiya Parikrama. Other Temples are Pateshwar Nath at Patwa, Champeshwar Nath at Champaran, Bamleshwar Nath at Bamhani in Mahasamund, and Kopeshwar Nath at Kopra. The Temple contains erotic sculptures around the sanctum walls. Hence, the temple is also called as Khajuraho Temple of Fingeshwar. The Temple is one of the protected monuments in Chattisgarh declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

Legends

Panchkoshiya Parikrama:

As per legend, Lord Rama passed through this place during his exile. During their passing, Mother Sita installed Shiva Lingam at five places and worshipped them. Therefore, these temples came to be called as Panchkosi Dham. This Temple is one among the five Shiva Temples of Rajim-Panchkoshiya Parikrama.

Built in Six Nights:

This Temple was believed to be built in six nights. The Kalash could not be established in the temple on the completion, due to which the Kalash of the temple has been installed in the north direction.

History

The Temple is believed to be built in 14^th Century AD.

The Temple

This is an east facing temple. The Temple follows Nagara style architecture. The Temple consists of sanctum and a 16 pillared Mandapam. The mandapa is common for the sanctum and other shrine. It seems the Mandapam might be built in latter stage. Presiding Deity is called as Phanikeshwar Nath Mahadev. He is housed in the sanctum in the form of Shiva Lingam.

The Temple contains erotic sculptures around the sanctum walls. Hence, the temple is also called as Khajuraho Temple of Fingeshwar. Idols of Bhairava, Vaishnavi and Chaturbhuj Ganesh can be found in the temple premises. Apart from this temple, there are many other interesting temples and places in this village. Of these, Ram Temple (Pancha Mandir), Hanuman temple and a palace in dilapidated condition.

Festivals

Sawan Somvar and Maha Shivaratri are the festivals celebrated here with much fanfare.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 1 Km from Fingeshwar Bus Stand, 17 Kms from Rajim, 22 Kms from Mahasamund, 23 Kms from Mahasamund Railway Station, 53 Kms from Gariaband, 59 Kms from Raipur Airport and 67 Kms from Raipur. The temple is situated on Rajim to Mahasamund Route.

Location | Photos