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Bhitargaon is a town in Kanpur district, Uttar Pradesh, India, known for its ancient Hindu temple, the largest Indian brick temple to survive from the time of the Gupta Empire. Bhitargaon is small village in Kanpur district and is famous for an ancient brick temple of the Gupta period. As per a local tradition, there was a city named Pushp-pur (Foolpur) in olden days The middle part of that city was known as Bhitargaon, which literally means the inner village.
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| District:: | Kanpur |
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The external part of the city is known as Barigaon (which literally means the outer village), which is adjacent to Bhitargaon separated at a distance of about a km.
Architecture
The Bhitargaon Temple is renowned for its exquisite brickwork and intricate architectural details. Dating back to the Gupta period (circa 5th century CE), this temple is one of the oldest surviving brick temples in India. The temple features a sanctum (garbhagriha) and a mandapa (pillared hall), with the sanctum being crowned by a curvilinear shikhara (tower). The temple’s exterior walls are adorned with intricate terracotta panels depicting various deities, mythological scenes, and decorative motifs. The brick construction showcases advanced engineering techniques, with interlocking bricks providing structural stability and resistance to earthquakes.
Key Architectural Features:
- Brick Construction: The use of bricks instead of stone, which was prevalent in later periods, makes this temple unique.
- Terracotta Panels: Detailed carvings on terracotta panels highlight the artistic excellence of the period.
- Curvilinear Shikhara: The temple’s tower, or shikhara, is one of the earliest examples of this architectural feature in North India.
- Pillared Mandapa: The entrance hall with pillars adds to the grandeur and ceremonial importance of the temple.
Festivals
Bhitargaon Temple, though primarily a historical site today, is also a place of worship where local festivals are celebrated with great fervor. Hindu festivals such as Maha Shivaratri, Diwali, and Navaratri see a significant influx of devotees who come to offer prayers and seek blessings. During these festivals, the temple is adorned with lights and decorations, and various rituals and cultural programs are organized.
Major Festivals Celebrated:
- Maha Shivaratri: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this festival involves night-long vigils, prayers, and special rituals.
- Diwali: The festival of lights is celebrated with the lighting of lamps and offering of sweets and prayers.
- Navaratri: The nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga is marked by fasting, prayers, and cultural performances.
Legend / Local stories
The Bhitargaon Temple is enveloped in numerous legends and local stories that add to its mystique. According to local folklore, the temple was built by a king who received divine instructions in a dream. The king was guided to construct a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu using bricks, a material uncommon for temple construction at the time. Another popular legend speaks of the temple being a site of hidden treasures and secret tunnels, which have intrigued historians and archaeologists alike.
Popular Legends:
- Divine Inspiration: The temple’s construction was inspired by a divine dream, emphasizing its spiritual significance.
- Hidden Treasures: Stories of buried treasures and hidden tunnels add an element of mystery to the temple’s history.
Photo Gallery
How to Reach:
Bhitargaon Temple is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, making it a convenient destination for tourists and devotees.
By Air: The nearest airport is Kanpur Airport, which is approximately 60 kilometers from the temple. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bhitargaon.
By Train: Kanpur Central Railway Station is the nearest major railway station, situated around 50 kilometers from the temple. Regular trains connect Kanpur to major cities across India.
By Road: Bhitargaon is well-connected by road. Buses and taxis are readily available from Kanpur city to the temple. The drive from Kanpur to Bhitargaon takes about an hour and provides a scenic view of the rural landscape.
Local Transport:
Once in Bhitargaon, local rickshaws and auto-rickshaws can be used for short-distance travel to the temple.
Visiting Bhitargaon Temple offers a unique opportunity to explore ancient Indian architecture, experience local cultural festivities, and delve into fascinating legends. Its historical and spiritual significance makes it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, architecture buffs, and spiritual seekers alike.