Mama Bhanja Temple

Mama Bhanja Temple is an 11th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Barsur town in Dantewada district, Chhattisgarh, near the Indravati River. Protected by the Archaeological Survey of India, it is notable for its Nagara-style architecture, intricately carved stone walls and tall curvilinear shikhara. According to local legend it was built by a maternal uncle (mama) and nephew (bhanja), from which it derives its name, and is a key heritage site of the Bastar region.

Visitors can expect a compact, well-preserved stone temple set in a quiet town environment in Barsur. The temple features a raised platform, ornate exterior carvings of deities and motifs, a pillared mandapa and a sanctum housing a Shiva lingam. The surroundings are open with views of other historic temples nearby. Visitors can explore the exterior architecture, observe worship activities, and take photographs of the detailed stonework.

Mama Bhanja Temple dates to the 11th century and is attributed to the Nagavanshi rulers of Bastar. Built in Nagara style, it is one of the prominent surviving temples of the Barsur temple complex, which was an important political and religious centre. The temple is designated as a Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India and reflects the architectural and artistic traditions of central India during that period.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and remains an active place of worship, especially during Maha Shivratri. Its name derives from a local legend that a maternal uncle and his nephew jointly built the temple. It holds religious importance for Shaivite devotees and cultural importance as part of Barsur's heritage, often called the city of temples and ponds.