Papanasini Siva Temple
The Papanasini Siva Temple is an abandoned Hindu temple located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India. Constructed in the 11th century, its architecture follows the Kalingan style, characterized by a pidha deul typology. The temple is in a state of deterioration, with parts of its structure, including the eastern wall, having collapsed.
Key Facts
- ›The temple is situated in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
- ›It was constructed in the 11th century.
- ›The architectural style is Kalingan, with a pidha deul typology.
- ›The temple is built primarily from laterite.
- ›It is currently abandoned and in a poor state of preservation, with signs of deterioration.
- ›The sanctum of the temple is empty.
Shiva
- Architectural Features
- Historical Context As A Temple From the 11th Century
Laterite
About Papanasini Siva Temple
The Papanasini Siva Temple is a Hindu temple located in Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, India. Architecturally, it is dated to the 11th century, placing it within a significant period of temple construction in the region.
Location and Architecture
The temple is situated in the Papanasini precinct of Old Town, Bhubaneswar, at an elevation of 45 feet. It faces south and follows the Kalingan architectural style, specifically a Pidha deul typology. The temple's plan is square, measuring 2.50 square meters, with a pidha order elevation reaching 4.16 meters. Its structure is divided into a five-fold bada (pidha bada) and features a Gandi and mastaka. The parsvadevata niches on the north, west, and eastern walls are present but are empty. The doorjambs are plain, contributing to the temple's overall ascetic design. The primary building material used is laterite, and it was constructed using dry masonry techniques.
Condition and Significance
Currently, the Papanasini Siva Temple is abandoned and in a state of considerable deterioration. The eastern wall has collapsed, and cracks are visible on all sides of the walls. A broken kalasa allows rainwater to percolate from the roof, exacerbating the damage. Despite its current condition, the temple stands as a historical and architectural artifact from the 11th century in Bhubaneswar.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Papanasini Siva Temple located?
The Papanasini Siva Temple is located in the Papanasini precinct, Badheibanka Chowk, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India. It is situated at an elevation of 45 feet.
When was the Papanasini Siva Temple built?
Based on its architectural features, the Papanasini Siva Temple is believed to have been built in the 11th century.
What is the architectural style of the Papanasini Siva Temple?
The temple follows the Kalingan architectural style, with a typology of Pidha deul. Its vimana is of pidha order and measures 4.16 meters in height.
What materials were used to construct the Papanasini Siva Temple?
The Papanasini Siva Temple is constructed using laterite as the primary building material. It was built using dry masonry construction techniques.
What is the current condition of the Papanasini Siva Temple?
The temple is in a bad state of preservation and shows significant signs of deterioration. The eastern wall has collapsed, cracks have developed in the walls, and rainwater percolates from the roof due to a broken kalasa.
Is the Papanasini Siva Temple an active place of worship?
No, the Papanasini Siva Temple is an abandoned temple, and its sanctum is empty. It is not an active place of worship.
Related Temples (Hindu)
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The Konark Sun Temple, a 13th-century Hindu temple in Odisha, India, is dedicated to the Sun god Surya. Designed as a colossal chariot with immense stone wheels and horses, it represents the zenith of Kalingan architecture and artistic achievement. Though much of the temple now lies in ruins, its surviving structures are celebrated for their intricate carvings, depicting religious themes, daily life, and erotic scenes.

Tirthesvara Siva temple
The Tirthesvara Siva temple is a Hindu temple located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, notable for its architectural style and religious significance. Constructed in the 14th century, it features elements of the Kalingan style and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha temple, Simhachalam
The Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha temple in Simhachalam, Andhra Pradesh, is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped as Varaha Narasimha. Renowned for its unique Kalingan architecture and the sandalwood-covered idol that resembles a lingam, the temple has a history spanning nearly a thousand years and has been patronized by various dynasties.