Sivasagar Sivadol
Ahom temple architecture·18th century·India
Sivasagar Sivadol is a Hindu temple complex located on the banks of the Sivasagar tank in Assam, India. It comprises three main shrines: Sivadol (dedicated to Shiva), Vishnudol (dedicated to Vishnu), and Devidol (dedicated to Durga). The temples were constructed in 1734 by Bar Raja Ambika, queen of the Ahom king Swargadeo Siva Singha, and are notable for their unique Ahom architecture.
Key Facts
- ›The complex includes three primary Hindu temples: Sivadol, Vishnudol, and Devidol.
- ›Built in 1734 by Bar Raja Ambika, queen of Ahom King Swargadeo Siva Singha.
- ›Sivadol features a central tower that is reportedly the tallest Shiva temple tower in India, standing at 104 feet.
- ›The Sivadol is crowned with an 8-foot golden dome.
- ›The temples are located on the banks of the Sivasagar tank, constructed between 1731 and 1738.
- ›The exterior walls of Sivadol are embellished with sculptures, including depictions of Durga in various forms.
Shiva, Vishnu, Durga
- Architectural Significance of Ahom Temple Style
- Religious Importance For Shiva, Vishnu, and Durga Worship
- Historical Site Related To the Ahom Kingdom
Ahom Dynasty
Mahashivaratri, Dol Yatra, Rath Yatra, Durga Puja
Stone, Bricks, Gold
Bar Raja Ambika
Sculptures of Durga In Various Forms, Floral Designs In Bas-Relief
Sivasagar Tank
About Sivasagar Sivadol
The Sivasagar Sivadol is a significant Hindu temple complex located in the heart of Sivasagar, in the Indian state of Assam. The complex is comprised of three main shrines: the Sivadol (dedicated to Shiva), the Vishnudol (dedicated to Vishnu), and the Devidol (dedicated to Durga). These temples stand on the banks of the Sivasagar tank, a large water body also known as Borpukhuri.
History and Construction
The Sivasagar tank was constructed between 1731 and 1738, and the temples were built in 1734. The commission for their construction came from Bar Raja Ambika, the queen of the Ahom king Swargadeo Siva Singha, who reigned from 1714 to 1744. Historically, Sivasagar served as the capital of the Ahom Kingdom before the establishment of the British Raj.
Architectural Features
The Sivadol is particularly noteworthy for its architecture. It is built in a style described as Shikhara architecture, with specific influences from Ahom temple design. The central tower of the Sivadol stands at an impressive height of 104 feet (32 meters), which is claimed to be the tallest Shiva temple tower in India. The tower is crowned with an 8-foot golden dome. The temple's base has a circumference of 195 feet. The Sivadol is constructed using stone and bricks, and its exterior walls are embellished with detailed sculptures and floral designs in bas-relief. Among these sculptures are various depictions of the goddess Durga, showcasing her multi-armed forms and her victory over the demon Mahishasura, reflecting a blend of Brahminical Hindu traditions and the Shaktism cult.
The Vishnudol and Devidol are architecturally similar to the Sivadol. The Vishnu temple's tower features a honeycomb design, while the Durga temple's tower has an undulating pattern in its vertical elevation.
Religious Significance and Festivals
The Sivasagar Sivadol complex is an active place of worship and a significant pilgrimage site. Mahashivaratri is a major festival celebrated annually at the Shiva temple, attracting pilgrims from across India. The Vishnudol hosts the Dol Yatra and Rath Yatra festivals, while the Devidol is a focal point for the Durga Puja celebrations, which take place with great fervor in September-October.
Location and Surroundings
The temples are located at 26°59'18"N and 94°37'59"E, within Sivasagar city. The Sivasagar tank itself is a substantial water body, covering a total area of 257 acres, with a water spread of 129 acres. The tank's water level remains stable throughout the year. Along the banks of the tank, besides the Hindu temples, are other structures including a Buddhist shrine, a bird watching tower, and the Tai Museum.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sivasagar Sivadol?
Sivasagar Sivadol refers to a group of Hindu temples located on the banks of the Sivasagar tank in Assam, India. The complex primarily consists of the Sivadol (Shiva temple), Vishnudol (Vishnu temple), and Devidol (Durga temple).
When were the Sivasagar temples built?
The temples were built in the year 1734. The Sivasagar tank itself, on whose banks the temples are situated, was constructed between 1731 and 1738.
Who commissioned the construction of the Sivasagar Sivadol?
The Sivasagar Sivadol was built by Bar Raja Ambika, the chief consort of the Ahom king Swargadeo Siva Singha. She was the queen of the Ahom kingdom.
What is the architectural style of the Sivasagar Sivadol?
The Sivadol is built in what is described as Shikhara architecture, more specifically Ahom temple architecture. The tower of the Sivadol is a prominent feature, standing 104 feet tall.
What deities are worshipped at the Sivasagar Sivadol complex?
The main temple, Sivadol, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The complex also includes Vishnudol, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and Devidol, dedicated to Goddess Durga.
Are there any notable sculptures or artwork at the Sivadol?
Yes, the exterior walls of the Sivadol are adorned with sculptures and floral designs in bas-relief. Unique depictions include the goddess Durga in various forms, showcasing a blend of Brahminical Hindu culture and the Shaktism cult.
Related Temples (Hindu)
Taraknath Temple
The Taraknath Temple, located in Tarakeswar, West Bengal, India, is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshiped here as Tarakanatha. Constructed in 1729, it features a distinct Bengal architectural style with an 'atchala' structure and an adjacent 'natmandir'. The temple is renowned for its belief that a dip in the nearby Dudhpukur tank fulfills prayers and is considered one of the 64 Jyotirlingas.
Ugratara Devalaya
Ugratara Devalaya is a significant Shakti shrine located in Guwahati, Assam, India, dedicated to the goddess Ugratara. Legend connects the temple to the navel of Sati, and it is noted for its unique representation of the deity as a water-filled pit rather than an idol.
Tara Devi Temple
Tara Devi Temple is a prominent Hindu religious site located at an altitude of 7200 feet above sea level near Shimla, India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Tara Devi and is believed to grant blessings and fulfill the wishes of devotees who visit with unwavering faith. It is a popular destination, drawing thousands of visitors, especially on weekends.