Lingaraja Temple Bhubaneshwar

From the inscriptions, it is known that this temple was built during the reign of Yayati Kesari in 7th century AD. This temple was later renovated by Kalinga Bhupati during 13th Century AD.

As per the Legend, Siva once said that Bhubaneshwar (Ekamra Tirtha) stands next to Varanasi. Goddess Parvati in the form of a cowherd started grazing the cattle near this Tirtha. Two demons Kriti and  Vasa wanted to marry Parvati. She asked them to carry on their shoulders. She then crushed them to the ground with her power. Lord Siva created Bindu Sagar Saras to fulfil the thirst of Goddess Parvati. He then self-manifested here as Lingaraja. Bindu Sagar Saras Pushkarini was built in the 9th Century. It is believed that taking a holy dip in this Pushkarini will get the similar benefits of Ganga in Varanasi. Water from this Pushkarini will be used for Abhishek.

This is Padal Peeda Kshetra, where offerings will be made for the ancestors. The temple Gopura is of 180 ft height.