Ancient Shiva Temple in Chhindgaon: A Restored Marvel
   Date :18-Jan-2025

Restored Ancient Shiva Temple and the Shivlinga
 
 
Staff Reporter
 
RAIPUR, 
 
In the village of Chhindagaon, Bastar district, situated on the banks of the Indravati River, stands a remarkable, recently restored Shiva temple. Located 26 kilometres from Jagdalpur on the Jagdalpur-Chitrakot road, this historic site offers a glimpse into the region’s rich past. Originally built on a raised platform facing east, the temple had deteriorated significantly over time. A recent restoration project has carefully brought the temple back to much of its former splendour. The temple’s original design included an assembly hall, a main hall, and a sanctum sanctorum. However, only the sanctum sanctorum remains intact today, with even its pinnacle having suffered damage. Explorer Jitendra Nakka informed that the sanctum sanctorum’s simple doorway features a lintel with a central carving of Ganesha. Based on architectural analysis and historical records, experts believe the Chhindak Nagvanshi dynasty constructed this ancient Shiva temple in the 12th century AD.
 
Local villagers have moved the temple’s idols of Narasimha and Chamunda to the nearby newly constructed Danteshwari Mai Temple. The sanctum sanctorum’s current lower elevation than the original temple complex adds to its distinctive architectural characteristics. The restoration of this ancient Shiva temple highlights Bastar’s rich cultural heritage and serves as a testament to the region’s historical importance and the enduring faith of its people. Continued preservation and promotion of such sites promise to reveal further fascinating details about Chhattisgarh’s history.