Kuleshwar Temple, Rajim, Chattisgarh

Kuleshwar Temple, Rajim, Chattisgarh

Kuleshwar Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Rajim Town in Gariaband District in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh. The Temple is one of the protected monuments in Chattisgarh declared by Archaeological Survey of India. Rajim is probably the holiest place in Chattisgarh as it is situated at the eastern bank of Mahanadi river, just below its junction with Pairi and Sondhur rivers. Due to its location, on the junction of three rivers, it is often classified as Prayaga (Allahabad) of this region, Chattisgarh. Rajim was also called as Kamal Kshetra and Padmapur.

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2020/06/kuleshwar-temple-rajim-legends.html

History

The temple was built in 9^th Century CE as per the inscriptions available in the Maha Mandapam. British archeologist J D Beglar visited Rajim in 1871-72 and reported the temples in his memoirs. As he was not allowed to enter inside the temples, his information is very limited. Famous British archeologist Alexander Cunningham, visited Rajim in 1881-82, described the temples in great detail. This temple was completely submerged when there was a flood in Rajim in 1967. Only the Kalasha was visible. There was no damage to the temple due to this flood.

The Temple

This Temple is situated on an island formed by Pairi and Mahanadi rivers. The Temple is facing towards east. This temple is constructed over a raised platform (Jagati) at about 17 feet high. The raised platform is octagonal instead of regular rectangular shape as seen in other temples.  There are steps to reach the platform on three sides. There is also a huge Peepal tree on this platform. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala and mandapa.

The sanctum houses Kuleshwar in the form of Lingam. The Mandapa is about 26 feet long. It is supported on two rows of pillars and pilasters on side walls. The Mandapa is closed on sides. The pillars are decorated richly with sculptures. There is a female figure on outer pilaster, shown standing on a peacock. This could be representation of Sarasvati as a river goddess.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 2.5 Kms from Rajim Railway Station, 4 Kms from Rajim Bus Stand, 19 Kms from Abhanpur, 34 Kms from Arang, 35 Kms from Mahasamund, 38 Kms from Raipur Airport, 47 Kms from Gariaband and 48 Kms from Raipur. Devotees need to take National Highway 30 from Raipur. Travel till Abhanpur and from there, take National Highway 130 C to reach Rajim.

Location | Photos