Bhoramadeo Temple is a holy site nestled in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh. It is located 18 km to the North-West of the tehsil town of Kawardha in Kabirdham district of Chhattisgarh. It is situated on the banks of the Sankari River, amidst the Satpura Range. It comprises a group of four temples of which the main temple is the Bhoramdeo temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its architectural beauty. Its architectural style is known as the Gurur type, unlike the north Indian Nagara style of architecture. Art lovers from varied distant places visit this temple to witness its majestic beauty.
History of Bhoramadeo Temple
It is believed that the temple complex dates back to the Kalachuri period with close identity with the sculptures found in nearby archeological sites such as Janjgir, Kalachuri, Narayanpur and Ratanpur sites. The construction of the temples is said to have been completed between the 7th and 12th centuries. In the earlier period, the temple was also known as Bhoramdeo as the Gond Tribe of the area worshiped Lord Shiva whom they called Bhoramdeo.
Architecture of Bhoramadeo Temple
Bhoramadeo temple is lovingly called `Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh`. It is older than the Khajuraho Group of temples and is considered an exceptional architectural beauty. It is an 11th century piece of architecture of Radhakrishna, named after the ubiquitous god-Bhoram. Sculptures and images depicting war, dance and music cover the facade of the temple, while the inner chamber is dark and silent.
Lord Shiva, the chief deity of the temple is placed in the Garbhagriha or sanctum sanctorium in the form of Shiva Linga. Next to the Shiva Linga, is serpent with raised hood, and also images of Ganesha and Shiva. The towering roof of this garbhagriha is topped by Kalasha, which is circular in shape. The entrance to the sanctorium is decorated with finely sculpted images of the ten avatars of the Lord Vishnu, apart from images of Shiva and Ganesha. The front entrance door of the temple is designed with images of Ganga and Yamuna on its doorpost.
Connectivity to Bhoramadeo Temple
The temple is well linked via airway and railway. Both the nearest airport and railhead are located near Raipur and are well connected with the many major cities of the country.
