Malleswar Temple - Bishnupur

Bishnupur, a town nestled in the Bankura district of West Bengal, India, is renowned for its 17th and 18th-century Terracotta temples and exquisite Balucheri sarees. Among the myriad temples that grace this land, dedicated to the beloved Lord Krishna, stands the unique Malleswar Temple, a homage to Lord Shiva.

History:

Once known as the Mallabhum region, Bishnupur thrived as the heart of the Malla dynasty. Unfazed by the tumultuous waves of Muslim and Mughal invasions, this region flourished under the reign of King Bir Hambir. He introduced the worship of Madan Mohan (Lord Krishna). It was during his era, and that of King Bir Singha, that the exquisite brick temples of Bishnupur began to grace the skyline.

Stone was in short supply in Bengal. Probably, this lead to an alternative in the name of elaborately decorated terracotta temples. The Malla Kings built many such terracotta temples in the 17th and 18th centuries CE in Bishnupur. 

Standing as an ode to Lord Shiva, the Malleswar Temple is a rare gem amidst the Krishna temples of Bishnupur. Constructed in 1622 CE by the visionary King Bir Singha, this temple stands as a testament to the ingenuity of its builders. He became King only in the year 1656 CE. He built this temple much before he was enthroned. 

Temple Architecture and Layout:

Nestled near the Jor Bangla Temple, the Malleswar Temple boasts a unique architectural style. Originally designed with a rekha sikhara, the temple now dons an octagonal sikhara. It is one of the earliest temples of Bishnupur.

While the sanctum once enshrined Lord Shiva, today it stands empty, with a magnificent icon of Nandi, the divine bull, adorning the front of the shrine.

Adjacent to this sacred abode, lies an ancient Thakur Dalan, echoing tales of heritage and tradition. Once a hub of Navaratri celebrations, this Thakur Dalan holds a special place in the historic tapestry of Bishnupur.

In those days, the image of Durga would be placed in this building during Navaratri celebrations. This particular Thakur Dalan of Bishnupur has heritage importance.

 Happy travelling.