The Majestic Bhojpur

Around Bhopal, there are quite a few religious and historically significant places to see for a casual Tourist, which includes the Sanchi Stupa and the Cave paintings at Bhimbetka which are both UNESCO heritage sites. A lesser known architectural marvel is the Majestic Bhojpur, close to 28km from the city. Bhojpur is a small town having only a handful of houses and the number of citizens may be few. Unlike some other temples in India, it has not faced the brunt of tourism so you may not see too many foreigners here. There are few shops outside the temple which is a saving grace as also the reduced number of beggars and mendicants pestering you.

 

Founded by the legendary Raja Bhoj and named after him, the 1000 year old Bhojpur temple is sometimes compared to the Somnath of Gujarat.  The temple, which is built in Square shape of 66 feet width, houses a unique artifact – the tallest Shiva ling in the country measuring 36 feet from the base and carved out of a single piece of rock.  Constructed entirely of the locally available sandstone, the partly complete structure humbles the mind. The door frame is close to 10 meters high and 5 meters wide. Four gigantic pillars, richly carved, rise to support its dome. The Lingam is set upon a huge platform 21.5 feet square upon three superimposed blocks which represent the divine Trinity of Hindu mythology. At the outside of the temple you may find richly carved idols of Gods and Goddesses adorning the walls

Photography is permitted within though the light conditions pose a challenge in getting some good snaps. The building was under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India and its representative inside the temple gave us a few insights about it. The lone priest who had been deputed to attend to the devotees, pointed us out to a few inscriptions on the wall which were written in Pali script.

 

Legend has it that the temple was never completed, you could see the ramp used to raise it to dome-level still standing. Some other places of interest close by would be the palace of Raj Bhoj which now lies in ruins as well as an ancient cave referred to as Goddess Parvatis dwelling. Every year, a big fair takes place here with thousands of devotees pouring in. Enroute to Bhimbetka, this is one spot you may definitely not want to miss