Rajasthan is the country’s most beautiful and vibrant State. It is also culturally rich and has artistic and cultural traditions which reflect the ancient Indian way of life. Grand havelis, astonishing forts and elaborately carved temples are the vital portion of architectural heritage of Rajasthan.
Eklingji temple complex in Udaipur is one of the major tourist attractions. The Eklingji temple of this complex was built around 734 AD. The temple was built by Bappa Rawal. Eklingji is also the name of Bhagwan Shiva. There are more than 100 other temple shrines within the complex. This is the name by which Bhagwan Shiva is worshipped in Udaipur. The temple has a four-faced idol of Bhagwan Shiva. The four-faced figure depicts four different forms of Bhagwan Shiva. The Eastern side recognises Surya (the Sun), Western side recognises Bhagwan Brahma (the ultimate creator), Northern side recognises Bhagwan Vishnu (the supreme being), and the southern side is Rudra (mightiest of the mighty).
The Eklinga statue is encircled with the figures of Goddess Parvati (wife of Shiva), Bhagwan Ganesha and Bhagwan Kartikay (sons of Shiva).
The entire temple is on the plinth. Various other structures of the temple complex are also on the plinth. The plinth, though not very much decorated, has horizontal mouldings and elevates the entire complex to a different level. The temple architecture is truly unique. It is a double storied one with a pyramid style roof and carved tower. In the main temple, there is a huge pillared hall and has a heavy pyramidal roof. The original temple and its idols were physically damaged many times by the Delhi Sultanate and built again and again. Architectural heritage of Rajasthan is rich with sculptures and carvings. The patrons of architecture and temples were not always the rulers; the general public and businessmen were always eager to contribute. This urge of contributing to temples is still observed in the present day Bharatiya society.
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