Mukteshvara Temple, Bhubaneswar – Banesvara Temple

Mukteshvara Temple, Bhubaneswar – Banesvara Temple

This temple is situated on the south eastern corner of the Muktesvara Temple Complex near the Ramakunda, the temple tank of Muktesvara Temple. This temple was constructed in 13^th century CE by Gangas. This temple is facing towards west. The temple is saptaratha on plan and triangabada in elevation. The temple consists of a rekha vimana. The sanctum is square on plan. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity, Banesvara, in the form of Shiva Linga within a circular yonipitha.

The exterior is devoid of any decorations except the raha niches decorated with talagarbhika & urdhagarbhika surmounted by a Kirtimukha. The doorjambs are crowned by three miniature pancharatha rekha vimana surmounted by vajramastaka in the frontal raha projections. The vajramastaka of each side is crowned by udyotasimha. An image of Lakulisa is found in the lalatabimba of the doorjamb.