Radha Madhav Temple - Bishnupur

Bishnupur, a town in the Bankura district of West Bengal, India, is renowned for its stunning 17th and 18th-century terracotta temples and the exquisite Baluchari sarees. Located approximately 160 kilometers from Kolkata, Bishnupur is a treasure trove of history and culture. In this article, we will explore the beautiful Radha Madhav Temple in Bishnupur.

History:

In ancient times, the area around Bishnupur was known as the Mallabhum region. The Malla dynasty, which founded the Bishnupur Kingdom, ruled this region for many centuries. Unlike many other parts of India, Bishnupur remained largely unaffected by Muslim or Mughal invasions. The dynasty was established by Adi Malla.

Bishnupur gained prominence during the reign of King Bir Hambir, who introduced the worship of Madan Mohan (Lord Krishna). During his rule and that of King Bir Singha, numerous beautiful brick temples were constructed.

Due to the scarcity of stone in Bengal, the Malla kings turned to terracotta as a building material, creating elaborately decorated temples in the 17th and 18th centuries. 

Temple Architecture and Layout:

Bishnupur is home to seven Eka Ratna (single pinnacled) temples. The Nandalal temple, the first Eka Ratna temple in Bishnupur, is located near the Dalmadal Canon. Opposite Nandalal Temple is a cluster of three temples known as Jor Mandir, and adjacent to these is the Radha Gobinda Temple. A short five-minute walk from Radha Gobinda Temple brings you to the Radha Madhav Temple.

In the past, these laterite temples were adorned with stucco images, but over time, much of this intricate work has been lost.

The Radha Madhav Temple is a beautiful example of Eka Ratna temple architecture, characterized by a single shikhara (pinnacle) atop a sloping roof. Like most temples in Bishnupur, Radha Madhav Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, referred to as Radha Madhav here. Currently, the temple does not house any deity.

The temple is square in plan and features a sloping roof with a single pinnacle. It is adorned with a few bas-relief carvings. Adjacent to the temple is a small Do Chala mandap (double-sloped roof), which enhances the temple's aesthetic appeal. 

The temple's bas-relief images depict scenes from the Ramayana and Krishna Lila, as well as various deities such as the Dasavatar (ten avatars of Vishnu), Ganesha, and several animals. The Radha Madhav Temple was built by Churamoni Devi, the wife of Malla King Krishna Singha, in 1737 CE.

The Radha Madhav Temple is a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Bishnupur. Its unique terracotta craftsmanship and historical significance make it a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the ancient temples of West Bengal.

Happy travelling.