About Madan Mohan Temple
Madan Mohan Temple is a historic terracotta temple located in Bishnupur, Bankura district, West Bengal. Built in 1694 by Malla King Durjan Singh Deva, it is dedicated to Lord Krishna as Madan Mohan. The temple exemplifies the Eka-ratna (single pinnacle) style with a square flat roof and intricate terracotta carvings depicting Krishna leela and epic scenes. Maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, it is a prominent example of Bishnupur's renowned terracotta temple architecture.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a well-preserved Eka-ratna terracotta temple set within a walled compound in Bishnupur town. The structure features a square sanctum with a single central tower (ratna) on a flat roof, extensive terracotta panels on outer walls depicting scenes from epics and Krishna legends, and a pillared porch. The interior houses an image of Madan Mohan (Krishna). The surroundings are open and quiet, suitable for viewing architecture, photography of terracotta details, and observing worship practices.
Key highlights
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Eka-ratna style terracotta temple built in 1694 during Malla dynasty
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Intricate terracotta carvings depicting Krishna leela, Ramayana and Mahabharata scenes
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Dedicated to Lord Krishna as Madan Mohan
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Square plan with single central pinnacle on flat roof
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Archaeological Survey of India protected monument in Bishnupur temple cluster
History of Madan Mohan Temple
Built in 1694 CE by Malla King Durjan Singh Deva, the Madan Mohan Temple represents the mature phase of Bishnupur terracotta temple architecture. It is built in the Eka-ratna style, characterized by a square flat-roofed structure surmounted by a single pinnacle. The temple is noted for its extensive terracotta ornamentation and is protected as a Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Culture & Context
The temple is dedicated to Madan Mohan, a form of Lord Krishna, reflecting the Vaishnavite tradition promoted by the Malla rulers of Bishnupur. It is an important example of Bengal's terracotta temple art and remains an active place of worship and a key site for understanding the religious and artistic heritage of the Bishnupur region.
Route
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