Siddeshwar Temple by the ancient Balsamund Talab in Palari is a lesser – known brick temple of the 7th – 8th century. This west – facing temple strictly adheres to the tenets of the Shilpa Shastra and has been widely appreciated by historians, architects and artisans for its extraordinary sculptures, carved panels and structural ingenuity.
The temple on plan has the typical oblique projections seen in the stellar layout. The external facades and shikhara are richly embellished with beautiful carvings of elephants, lions, medallions inset with gods and goddesses like Bhagawan Ganesha, Bhagawan Kartikeya and Gajalakshmi, miniature niches, repetitive floral and foliage motifs, geometric patterns in harmony and auspicious Hindu iconography that are incredibly difficult to carve on brick!
A considerable number of these sculptures have been severely damaged and are beyond repair. Locals say that the temple has been renovated in parts over the years.
The temple has been constructed using a unique technique known thousands of years ago wherein the garbha griha remains cool even in the hottest summers.
The entrance doorway exhibits unparalleled architectural and artistic mastery. Life – size figures of the river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna in dvibhaṅga on their respective vahanas along with their attendants that adorn the main entrance exude delicacy, elegance and charm. The sculptural lines, garments, ornaments, diadems, hair and facial expressions of Ganga and Yamuna are breathtaking to say the least!
The most elaborate panel depicting the divine marriage of Bhagawan Shiva with Parvati and the accompanying procession comprising of Bhagawan Vishnu, Bhagawan Brahma, musicians, dancers, sages and gods and goddesses above the lintel of the main door is truly captivating and one of a kind. Bhagawan Ganesha has been carved to the left of the door while Bhagawan Kartikeya sits on the right.
A Shiva Linga of great antiquity has been consecrated in the garbha griha. Thousands of people come to have darshan in the important months of Sravan and Kartik and on Maha Shivaratri.
There is an old Peepul tree within the premises where recently excavated idols have been placed.
Written by Lakshmi Subramanian
sahasa.in 
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