Puthia Temple Complex consists of a cluster of notable old Hindu Temples in Puthia Upazila, Rajshahi Division, Bangladesh. Located 23 km to the east of Rajshahi city it has the largest number of Historic temples in Bangladesh. The temples were built by Hindu Zamindars Rajas of the Puthia Raj family who were noted philanthropists of Rajshahi. The temples have been built in terracotta in a variety of styles combining the typical Jor Bangla Architecture with other influences. The Rajbari or Palace of the Raja of Puthia is part of the complex. The temples are laid out around a lake with a sprawling lawn.
Pancharatna Gobinda Temple
The grandest temple in Puthia, the Govinda Temple was erected in mid-nineteenth century by the queen of Puthia. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, as the Puthians were converted to Vaishnavism by Radhamohana Thakura. The temple has exquisite terracotta ornamentation depicting the divine romance between Krishna and Radha. The temple's survival is threatened by the newly-established college nearby and the lack of conservation efforts.
Shiva Temple
This temple, built in 1815 by the queen of Puthia and dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva, is the largest Shiva temple in Bangladesh. The corridors have a touch of Jaipur architecture and in the sanctuary, lies a very large black basalt Shiva Linga, one of the largest in the country. The temple suffered damage in the 1971 War of Liberation of Bangladesh. The destroyers attempted to displace and break the Shiva Linga, but were unable to move it from its position. The temple is now a protected monument.
Jagannath Temple
The Jagannath Temple, predating the temple, is dedicated to the Hindu God Jagannath, a form of Krishna. It is a fine example of Bangladeshi architecture, having intricate embellishments and terracotta reliefs, although it measures only 5m by 10m.
Puthia Temple Complex photo
No comments:
Post a Comment