Anandeshwar Mandir is located at a distance of 25km from Akola in Lasur village of Daryapur taluka in Amravati district of Maharashtra.
Situated on the banks of Purna River in the midst of the green plantation, the temple structure is an excellent example of architectural marvel. The carvings and the statues on the façade as well as in the interior of the temple are of high quality.
This temple symbolises Hemadpanthi style of architecture. The entire construction is about 3,500 sq. ft. out of local stone. The temple looks like a sturdy fort. This temple is त्रिदल meaning that it has three गाभारे (sanctum). सभामंडप (hall) of this temple is open and it is termed as स्वर्गमंडप. At the entrance of the temple, there is a large platform. The entrance door is intricately carved and has a layered frame. Through this platform one enters into the Sabha Mandap which is without a roof. The similarity of this Swarg Mandap with that of the Kopeshwar Mandir of Khidrapur is striking. Entry to three Garbha Griha is through this Sabha Mandapa. The temple structure is supported by twelve beautifully carved columns and six columns are aligned along the wall.
The temple was constructed in the 12th century by kings of the Yadava dynasty of Devagiri. This Shiv Mandir is being visited by many tourists as well as devotees. Pooja of Shivling is performed daily. The temple structure is under the protection of ASI now. However better conservation of the temple is necessary. The number of beautiful sculptures is gradually reducing.
The Pantheon in Rome is famous for its huge dome with the central opening in the roof. The roofless Sabha Mandapa of temple Anandeshwar as well as that of Khidrapur remind us of the roof opening of Pantheon at Rome. The reason for having this roofless Sabha Mandapa needs to be researched and the accuracy with which the diameter of the opening is achieved is also to be understood by serious study of the construction technology.
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