A Blueprint Of ‘Konark Sun Temple’, Gangeshwari Temple In Odisha’s Puri

Whenever we think of the majestic Sun Temple in Konark, the iconic structure reminds us of the 1200 artisans and workers who built this sculpture over a period of 12 years. But did you know, that before building this structure, they had built another temple nearby that is said to be the blue print of the Sun Temple.  

54 kms from Bhubaneswar, there is a small village under Gop Grampachayat in Puri district where this temple stands tall today, a temple associated with the legend of Konark Sun Temple.

The Gangeshwari Temple in Bayalisbati village is a beautifully carved temple with an interesting history and legend. Locals say that this temple is a model of the famous Sun Temple in Konark.  
This temple is dedicated to Goddess Gangeshwari, the Ishtadevi (patron goddess) of the Ganga dynasty kings, like ChodaGanga Dev and Narasingha Dev.

The temple is known for its detailed sculptures and excellent craftsmanship. 
It is also historically important because of what unfolded when the 1200 skilled artisans who helped build the Konark Temple gathered here, in Bayalisbati village. Many of them joined hands to build a temple which looks very similar to that of Sun temple.

A unique feature of this temple is its special entrance gate, which makes it different from other temples. Although it doesn't have all the parshvadevtas or peripheral deities like many other temples, it does have a beautiful image of Goddess Varahi, who is one of the peripheral deity.
Inside the temple's Sanctum Sanctorum, there is an idol of Devi Gangeshwari.

According to legend, this village was once home to Sibei Santara, chief of the 1,200 artisans assigned to build the Konark Sun Temple. Locals recall that Sibei Santara faced a peculiar challenge during the Sun temple’s construction on the banks of the Chandrabhaga River. 
Every stone he laid was swallowed by a whirlpool, blocking the progress of the work. Disturbed and hungry one day, Sibei sat to eat, and Devi Gangeshwari herself appeared and served him rice. Without realizing, he started eating directly from the middle of the serving. His hand burned from the hot food and Devi Gangeshwari gently advised, “Don’t be like Sibei Santara. Don’t start from the middle; begin from the edges.”
Realizing his error, Sibei Santara changed his approach and began the construction from the edges of the riverbank rather than the center. The temple work resumed smoothly. Later, he shared this with Langula Narasingha Dev, the reigning king of the Ganga Dynasty. 
Eventually, in respect of Devi Gangeshwari’s guidance, a temple was constructed for her in the village.

It is said that the stones used to build Gangeshwari temple were transported via the ‘Pathra Bhasa’ River, which has now dried into a pond. According to locals, this temple which is also known as mini Konark Sun Temple, was built as a mark of reverence for Devi Gangeshwari's blessings and wisdom.

Though this temple has a great history and significance, it requires attention from the government.