Bishnupur: Carved in Terracotta

152kms from Kolkata, lies a town called Bishnupur. Bishnupur reminds us of our waning culture, of our talented artisans, and the waning art of Terracotta….. Bishnupur cries out through its decorated walls of temples, the yesteryears of magesticity, being one of the centre and seats of art and culture of Bengal.

  When we look through the cultural history of Bengal, Bishnupur has its undeniable contribution. Being under the rule of the Malla kings for around a thousand years, the artisans were well patronized. Thus, the results are what we see today, the beautifully designed Terracotta temples, the Baluchori sarees and the Bishnupuri Gharana of Hindustani classical music and the Bishnupur school of paintings.

It’s a beautiful place for a weekend holiday. Beautified and cradled by Nature herself. Mukutmanipur is a must visit place nearby.

Notable places in Bishnupur are the Malleshwar Temple – the oldest temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The Rasmancha – a 16^th century temple with an unusually elongated pyramidical tower suurounded by hut-shaped turrets. Idols are kept here for public worship during the Ras-utsav.

Panch Ratna Temple of Shyam Raya– The richly decorated walls depicting Krishna’s life will surely catch your eyes.

The Jorebangla Temple – Exudes typical Bengali style of architecture, the ornate terracotta carvings being set off by the roof. Built in 1655 A.D by King Raghunath Singha Dev II.

The Madanmohan Temple – Depictions form the Ramayana, The Mahabharat, and the Puranas. The temple being made in the Ekaratna style.

Mukutmanipur – Situated 55kms from Bishnupur, Mukutmanipur lies at the confluence of the rivers Kangshabati and Kumari. Lush green forests and hillocks surrounds the water. Beautifully carved out by Nature and caressed by Her.

Susunia – Susuni Hill, 50kms from Bishnupur, is a popular trekking spot. Popular with people who visit the place to see the “Dhara”, a natural spring and Shilalipi, excavations and researches suggests that the inscriptions date back to 4^th century A.D.

Other important places to visit are the Jhilimili and the Sutan Forests.

P.S: One will find a plethora of hotels at Bishnupur, but its better to book in advance. So, this winter, give it a try! Thou won’t be deceived.

(Image Courtesy: Google images)

• About the Author

About Shreejit Guha

Run, Jump, Climb to the cliffs of Isolation and jump into the sea of madness and cacophony. Listen intently to the paroxysm and choose your way. Be content. And be Confused. Thus is my philosophy.