Credit: Dr Sachin Patidar
Bhojpur temple, known as the “Somnather of North India ” is a popular destination that is located near Bhimbetka, Madhya Pradesh.
History
The history of the temple dates back to the 11th century when it was constructed during the reign of Paramara King Bhoja. However, the construction of the temple was left in the middle for unknown reasons. Despite being incomplete, it has a magnificent, soaring strength of line and is supported by four pillars. According to the Jain writer Prabandha-Chintamani, there were 104 temples that were constructed during the reign of Parmar king Bhoja, but only the Bhojpur temple can be attributed to the Bhoja with some certainty. The remains abandoned at the site helped the scholar understand the temple construction techniques of 11th-century India.
Architecture of Bhojpur temple
Supported on a massive platform of 21 feet, Shiva Lingam stands out of a single rock and looks very beautiful. It’s 7.5 feet (2.3 m) tall. There is not enough space available for the consecration and worship of the Shivling, and one has to climb up the aquarium. It’s not an easy feat, and priests only perform this task twice a day. In the past, devotees were allowed up to Jalhari, but due to safety concerns, now only priests are allowed to perform this ritual. The temple has an exquisite doorway decorated with intricate carvings and exquisite carvings on either side. The remaining three sides have balconies that have massive brackets with intricately carved pillars.
Apart from the main Bhojpur temple, there is a Parvati cave in the western direction that has many archaeologically significant sculptures. A memorial site for Acharya Matunga, who wrote the Bhaktambar, is situated in the temple complex.
Currently, the temperature is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). It’s a popular destination, especially for the pilgrims who flock to the temple during Shivratri. The grandeur and historical temple are a must-visit place for those who love knowing the relationship between the history and religion of the place. Located near the town of Bhopal, the place is easily accessible by air, road, and train.
Festival
An annual festival is held twice a held in the premises of the temple on the occasion of Maha Shivratri and Makar Sankranti. A three-day festival during Shivratri enlightened the whole atmosphere of the temple.