Ras Mancha - The Pride of Bishnupur

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Bishnupur, nestled in the Bankura district of West Bengal, India, is a town steeped in history and cultural significance. Located approximately 160 kilometers from Kolkata, the capital city of Bengal, Bishnupur is renowned for its exquisite 17th and 18th-century Terracotta temples and traditional Balucheri sarees. In this article, let's delve into the beauty and uniqueness of a remarkable monument known as Ras Mancha in Bishnupur.

History:

In ancient times, the area around Bishnupur was known as the Mallabhum region and was ruled by the Malla dynasty for centuries. Despite the Muslim or Mughal invasions, this region remained relatively untouched. Founded by Adi Malla, the dynasty flourished under the reign of King Bir Hambir, who introduced the worship of Madan Mohan (Lord Krishna) and oversaw the construction of many beautiful brick temples.

Due to the scarcity of stone in Bengal, the Malla Kings turned to elaborately decorated terracotta temples, which became a hallmark of Bishnupur's architecture during the 17th and 18th centuries CE. Among these structures stands Ras Mancha, built by King Bir Hambir in 1600 CE.







Pavilion Architecture and Layout:

Ras Mancha, although technically not a temple, served as the venue for the annual Ras festival, where deities from all the temples of Bishnupur would be gathered for public darshan. This unique pavilion, devoid of any deity, boasts a design and layout unparalleled in Bengal or the entire country, earning it the title of 'The Pride of Bishnupur'.

The square-shaped pavilion rests on a raised laterite stone platform and is crowned with a stepped pyramidal superstructure, surrounded by smaller sloped roofed structures. The sanctum is enclosed by three successive circumambulatories adorned with arched openings and pillars, while the exterior remains plain except for a few bas-relief images and lotus motifs.

Despite its grandeur and historical significance, Ras Mancha remains relatively unknown outside West Bengal, making it a hidden gem awaiting discovery.

Happy travelling.


Location: Dalmadal Para, Bishnupur, West Bengal 722122, India

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