Bhojpur Temple Hosts Cleanliness Drive

• 13 Aug 2025

Why in News? 

On 10th August 2025, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board organized a successful cleanliness drive at the tentative UNESCO World Heritage site Bhojpur Temple (Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple), spreading the message of national pride and environmental responsibility. 

• The event was conducted under the theme "Azadi Ka Utsav Swachhta Ke Sang," encouraging people to celebrate freedom with cleanliness.  

Key Points 

• Environmental Awareness: Participants focused on eco-friendly waste disposal, especially flowers and offerings, promoting cleanliness and preserving heritage. 
• Spiritual Awareness: Karma Yoga teachings from the Bhagavad Gita were shared, blending social, environmental, and spiritual consciousness. 

Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple  

 

• Location: Bhojpur, Raisen District, Madhya Pradesh 
• Historical Significance: Built in the 11th century by Raja Bhoj of the Paramara dynasty, dedicated to Lord Shiva. 
  • Added to the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2024. 
• Architecture: 
  • Style: Bhumija, with Dravida influences on shikhara. 
    • The temple's Bhumija-style architecture influenced later temples like Udayeshwara and Bijamandal. 
  • Notable Features: 
    • Lingam: Colossal (2.3m tall and 5.4m in circumference). 
    • Shikhara: Towering, with intricate carvings and projections. 
    • Incomplete Structure: Includes unfinished mandapa and ceiling. 
  • Unique Elements: 
    • Line drawings carved on nearby rocks depicting the intended temple design. 
    • Carved masonry blocks and earthen ramps around the site. 
• Uniqueness of Temple: 
  • Architectural Grandeur: Massive size, intricate carvings, and the colossal lingam showcase Paramara dynasty’s architectural brilliance. 
    • Reflects the religious, cultural patronage and architectural vision of Raja Bhoj and the Paramara dynasty. 
  • The Bhojeshwar Temple is similar to the Chola’s Brihadisvara Temple (Thanjavur) in terms of scale and grandeur.  
    • If completed, Bhojeshwar's shikhara would be taller than Brihadisvara's, measuring 100m compared to 59.82m.