Dolly Chouhan// Bhilai. Situated in the heart of India, Chhattisgarh is endowed with a rich cultural heritage and attractive natural diversity. The state is full of ancient monuments, rare wildlife, exquisitely carved temples, Buddhist sites, waterfalls, caves and prehistoric sites. One of the best places to visit in chhattisgarh is the Laxam Temple of Sirpur. Sirpur is situated on the banks of the Mahanadi river. Sirpur was known as Sripur in ancient times and was the capital of South Kosala. Sirpur is known for its Buddh viharas. Laxman Temple is the major tourist attraction of the place.
Laxman Temple is one of the finest bricks temples in India and perhaps the oldest. It is characterised by exquisite carvings and precise construction. Sheshnaag serves as an umbrella to lord Shiva on the top of the entrance, while incarnations of Lord Vishnu, Krishna Leela ornamental symbols and erotic carving adorn the sides. The religious segments of a temple Vatayan, Chitya Gawaksha, Bharwahakgana, Aja, Kirtimukh and Kama Amalak are engraved in the pillars of this panchaeth type temple. The inside has the Mandap (shelter), Antaraal (passage) and Garbha Griha (the main house).The archaeological survey of India has established a museum in the temple premises, which houses a collection of rare statues and other relies significant to the Shiva, Vaishnava , Buddhist and Jain faiths.
-MA (III Sem) Indira Gandhi Gov. Arts, Science and Commerce College
The Ancient Brick Laxman Temple of Sirpur
