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Rajarani Temple, Bhubaneswar
Kalinga Monument · 11th Century · Bhubaneswar
॥ ॐ नमः शिवाय ॥
The Rajarani Temple is one of the finest sculptural achievements of Bhubaneswar’s Kalinga builders. Raised in the 11th century from a warm-hued local sandstone called rajarani, it carries no presiding deity in active worship today and survives as a protected monument — admired for its richly carved tower and the elegant stone figures that wind around its walls.
An 11th-century Kalinga monument
Built in the 11th century, the Rajarani Temple belongs to the great age of Kalinga architecture in Bhubaneswar. Its name comes from the warm-coloured local sandstone, rajarani, used in its construction rather than from any king or queen, though the name has invited romantic interpretation.
The temple is now a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India and is approached as a heritage site rather than a place of daily ritual.
The sculpted tower and figures
Rajarani is celebrated for its ornate tower and the graceful sculpture covering its surfaces — figures of women in varied poses, the dikpalas or guardians of the eight directions, and amorous couples carved with notable delicacy. The clustered miniature spires of the tower give it a distinctive silhouette among the city’s temples.
This sensuous and refined carving has earned the monument its informal nickname, the ‘love temple’.
A temple without active worship
Unlike most Bhubaneswar shrines, Rajarani has no enshrined deity in active worship today. Visitors come to study its architecture and sculpture, and the surrounding lawns make it one of the more peaceful heritage spots in the city.
How to reach Rajarani Temple, Bhubaneswar
- By road: The monument is within Bhubaneswar city, in the old temple precinct, and is easily reached by auto, taxi or app-based cabs from anywhere in the city.
- By train: Bhubaneswar railway station is the nearest railhead, a short drive from the temple.
- By air: Biju Patnaik International Airport at Bhubaneswar is close by, with road transport completing the short journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is the Rajarani Temple?
It is an 11th-century monument, built during the flourishing of Kalinga architecture at Bhubaneswar.
Why is it called the Rajarani Temple?
The name comes from rajarani, the warm-coloured local sandstone used to build it, not from a king or queen.
Is there active worship at the temple?
No. The temple has no presiding deity in active worship today and is preserved as a heritage monument.
What is the temple famous for?
It is admired for its richly sculpted tower and graceful stone figures of women, the directional guardians (dikpalas) and amorous couples.
Why is it sometimes called the ‘love temple’?
The nickname comes from its sensuous and delicate carving, including amorous couples sculpted on its walls.
Who maintains the temple now?
It is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India.
॥ हर हर महादेव ॥ • Bhaktiras.net Temple Guide
| Built | 11th century |
| Style | Kalinga architecture |
| Material | Rajarani sandstone |
| Location | Bhubaneswar |
| State | Odisha |
| Status | ASI-protected monument |