The Rajarani Temple in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, was completed in the eleventh century. Its patron is not established, though scholars suggest the Somavamshi kings. It is built in the Kalingan pancharatha style on a raised platform, and the sanctum tower rises about 59 feet (18 meters). Its wall has five divisions instead of the usual three, and its porch has a square plan, unlike the rectangular plans of earlier temples.
No images stand inside the sanctum, and the temple is broadly classed as Shaivite. Carvings include the eight guardians of the directions, Shiva dancing with Parvati, and nayikas in various poses on the sanctum walls. Lakulisha, founder of the Pashupata sect, appears on the lintel with eight ascetics.
The porch collapsed and was repaired in 1903. The Archaeological Survey of India maintains the ticketed monument, and the Rajarani music festival is held here each January.
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