Mama-Bhanja Temple
The Sacred Legend of Mama-Bhanja Temple: The Mama-Bhanja Temple is an architectural gem located in the historic town of Barsur, which was once a major capital of the Chhindaka Naga dynasty. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for its unique name and the fascinating legend associat ed with its construction. Standing at a height of approximately 50 feet, the temple is a fine example of the Nagara style of architecture that flourished in the Bastar region between the 10th and 13th centuries. The structure is built entirely of stone and consists of a square sanctum and a towering Shikhara that is intricately carved with various motifs. According to local lore, the temple was built in a single day by two master craftsmen who were related as maternal uncle (Mama) and nephew (Bhanja). The competition between the two resulted in this masterpiece, which has survived the ravages of time and remains in remarkably good condition. The exterior walls are decorated with carvings of gods, goddesses, and floral patterns, reflecting the high level of artistic skill prevalent during the medieval period. The temple is now a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and attracts historians, pilgrims, and tourists from across the country. Barsur itself is often called the 'City of Temples and Ponds', and the Mama-Bhanja Temple is its most prominent landmark. The temple's location in a quiet, rural setting adds to its mystical charm, allowing visitors to contemplate its history without the distractions of a busy city. It is not just a place of worship but a symbol of the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the Bastar tribes and their erstwhile rulers. The symmetry of the structure and the precision of the stone joinery are a testament to the genius of ancient Indian architects. A visit to this temple offers a profound journey back in time to an era of royal grandeur and spiritual devotion.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 HoursPlace Type:
Heritage / ReligiousEntry Fees:
Free Entry: As a protected monument under the ASI, there is currently no entry fee for the Mama-Bhanja Temple.
Donations: Visitors may choose to leave a small donation in the temple hundi for the maintenance of the shrine. ...Free Entry: As a protected monument under the ASI, there is currently no entry fee for the Mama-Bhanja Temple.
Donations: Visitors may choose to leave a small donation in the temple hundi for the maintenance of the shrine.Timing:
Regular Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Sunrise and sunset offer the most spiritual atmosphere and the best light for the stone architecture. ...Regular Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Sunrise and sunset offer the most spiritual atmosphere and the best light for the stone architecture.Special Events:
Mahashivratri: The most significant festival celebrated in February or March, where thousands of devotees visit to offer water to the Lingam.
Barsur Mahotsav: A cultural festival organized by the government to promote tribal art, music, and ...Mahashivratri: The most significant festival celebrated in February or March, where thousands of devotees visit to offer water to the Lingam.
Barsur Mahotsav: A cultural festival organized by the government to promote tribal art, music, and the heritage of the region.Best Photo Spots:
The Temple Entrance: A classic shot looking up at the 50-foot Shikhara against the blue sky.
Intricate Wall Panels: Close-up shots of the Narasimha and Ganesha carvings show the detailed craftsmanship of the 11th century.
Read MoreThe Temple Entrance: A classic shot looking up at the 50-foot Shikhara against the blue sky.
Intricate Wall Panels: Close-up shots of the Narasimha and Ganesha carvings show the detailed craftsmanship of the 11th century.
The Surrounding Ruins: Capturing the temple through the stone arches of nearby ruins adds depth to the photograph.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Temple Architecture Study: Examine the intricate stone carvings and the structural design of the Nagara shikhara.
Pilgrimage and Prayer: Offer prayers to Lord Shiva in this ancient and powerful spiritual center.
Historical Exploration: Walk around the Barsur complex to see other ruins like the Battisa Temple.
Photography of the Temple: The stone textures look spectacular during the "Golden Hour" just before sunset.
Learning the Legends: Talk to the local priests to hear the full story of the Mama and Bhanja builders.
Picnicking in the Ruins: Enjoy the quiet surroundings of the heritage site for a relaxed afternoon.
Visit the Ganesha Statues: See the nearby twin g...
Information
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Why Famous:
The Legend of the One-Day Build: It is famous throughout India for the story of the Mama and Bhanja who allegedly built it in just 24 hours.
Historical Significance: As a key site in the ancient capital of Barsur, it is a famous destination ...The Legend of the One-Day Build: It is famous throughout India for the story of the Mama and Bhanja who allegedly built it in just 24 hours.
Historical Significance: As a key site in the ancient capital of Barsur, it is a famous destination for those interested in the Chhindaka Naga history. -
Architecture:
The Nagara Style Shikhara: The temple features a classic Nagara spire rising 15 meters (50 feet) from the ground. The base is a square platform measuring 8x8 meters.
Intricate Stone Carvings: The walls display panels of 0. 5x1 meter featuri...The Nagara Style Shikhara: The temple features a classic Nagara spire rising 15 meters (50 feet) from the ground. The base is a square platform measuring 8x8 meters.
Intricate Stone Carvings: The walls display panels of 0. 5x1 meter featuring carvings of Lord Ganesha and Narasimha. The stone used is local sandstone, which has weathered to a beautiful grey-brown hue. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Jagdalpur Airport is the closest. Hire a taxi from the airport directly to Barsur via Geedam.
By Train: The nearest major station is Dantewada. From there, Barsur is a 30 KM drive.
By Road: Barsur ... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Battisa Temple (1 KM), 2. Twin Ganesha Statue (0. 5 KM), 3. Chandraditya Temple (1. 5 KM), 4. Dantewada (30 KM), 5. Kirandul (58 KM), 6. Geedam (24 KM), 7. Chitrakote Falls (70 KM), 8. Bodhghat (10 KM), 9. Samlur Temple (22 KM), 10. Jagdalpur (75 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Respect the religious sanctity of the temple; remove your shoes before entering the sanctum.
Packing: Carry a camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the full height of the temple and the surrounding landscape.
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