Durga Temple, Motia
The Durga Temple in Motia, located in Odisha, India, is a significant Hindu shrine dedicated to Mahishamardini and Chamunda. The temple is known for its central icon depicting the four-handed goddess slaying Mahishasura, and for sculptures that place its origins in the Somavamsi period of the 10th century.
Key Facts
- ›The temple is dedicated to Mahishamardini and Chamunda.
- ›The central icon features a four-handed goddess slaying Mahishasura.
- ›Sculptures discovered at the site suggest it dates back to the 10th century, during the Somavamsi rule.
- ›An image of Surya is also worshipped within the temple.
- ›The temple is located near Krushnaprasad village in the Cuttack district of Odisha, India.
Mahishamardini, Chamunda, Durga, Surya
Archaeological Importance, Historical Significance, Religious Pilgrimage
Somavamsi
Four-Handed Goddess Slaying Mahishasura, Eight-Handed Sculpture of Maa Durga
About Durga Temple, Motia
The Durga Temple, located in Motia within the Cuttack district of Odisha, India, is a significant Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddesses Mahishamardini and Chamunda. Its origins are traced back to the 10th century, a period associated with the Somavamsi dynasty, as indicated by archaeological findings of sculptures at the site.
Religious Significance
The central icon of the temple is a striking depiction of the four-handed goddess Durga in the act of vanquishing the demon Mahishasura. This iconography highlights her role as Mahishasuramardini, the slayer of the buffalo demon. The temple also houses an image of the sun god Surya, indicating a broader devotional scope. The presence of sculptures, including an eight-handed depiction of Durga, further underscores the temple's importance as a site of worship and artistic expression.
Location and Accessibility
The temple is situated near Krushnapur village, in an area known as Nua Satanga and Motia. It is accessible from the Phulnakhara square near Niali. Regular bus services connect Bhubaneswar to Niali, which is approximately 65 kilometers away, facilitating easier access for devotees and visitors.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What deities are worshipped at the Durga Temple in Motia?
The Durga Temple in Motia is primarily dedicated to Mahishamardini and Chamunda. The central icon is a depiction of the four-handed goddess Durga in the act of slaying the demon Mahishasura.
When was the Durga Temple in Motia built?
Based on archaeological discoveries of sculptures, the shrine is believed to belong to the era of Somavamsi rule, with the temple itself constructed in the 10th century.
Where is the Durga Temple in Motia located?
The temple is situated near Krushnaprasad village in an area known as Nua Satanga and Motia, within the Cuttack district of Odisha, India. It is accessible from the Phulnakhara square near Niali.
What is depicted in the central icon of the Durga Temple?
The central icon in the Durga Temple is a representation of the four-handed goddess Mahishamardini. She is shown slaying the buffalo-headed demon Mahishasura. In her upper hands, she holds a Shankha and Chakra, while her lower hands are depicted with a trident and one resting on the demon.
Are there any other deities worshipped at the temple besides Durga?
Yes, in addition to the primary deities of Mahishamardini and Chamunda, an image of the sun god Surya is also worshipped at the temple.
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