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Rajarani Temple
 Location :
Bhubaneswar, Orissa
Dates Back : 11th Century
A Combination Of Grace & Elegance
The Raj Rani Temple (11th century), which is surrounded by a nice garden is no longer used for worship. This temple was dedicated to Lord Brahma and is known for its well-carved tower. It is about a km east of the main road. It is one of the later Bhubaneswar temples.
Around the temple are carvings of the eight dikpalas (temple guards), who protect the temple from the different directions. They are eight important demigods. They are Indra (east) the head of the demigods, Agni (southeast) god of fire, Yamaraja (south) god of death, Nirritti (southwest), Varuna(west) god of water, Vayu (northwest) god of air, Kubera(north) god of wealth, and Isana (northeast).
The 'Jagmohana' (porch) is extremely plain, and was evidently repaired in 1903 after having fallen down in ruins. The 'Deul' (tower), on the other hand, is spectacularly ornate, and is famous for the aesthetic concept of miniature temple spires clustered around the main tower.
The sculptural images of the temple are elegant and lively, especially the beautiful female figures, which can be seen in amorous dalliance, as well as engaged in such activities as holding children, looking in mirrors, and playing with pet birds. On the lower register of the 'Deul', on the corner projections, are found the famous "Guardians of the Eight Directions", watching over the eight cardinal points. Beginning from the left of the entrance to the 'Deul' and proceeding in a clockwise direction.
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