TEMPLE OF THE WEEK

The Lingaraj Temple, dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Shiva, is one of the oldest temples in the city of Bhubaneswar, India.

The word Lingaraja refers to "The King of Lingam," i.e., Lord Shiva. It has a huge 60m tall tower, which is 2m higher than Jagannath Temple, and it is considered to be an excellent example of Kalinga architecture. It is a revered pilgrimage center visited by pilgrims throughout the year. On special occasions, such as Shivaratri and other festivals, the devotees gather there in large numbers. The presiding deity is in the form of a massive granite block in the sanctum and is the Swayambhu Linga, representing both Shiva and Vishnu (Hari-hara). The leaves of bel (vilva) and Tulasi, which are favorites respectively of Shiva and Vishnu, are used in daily worship practices.