Tiketrai Shiv Mandir and Baradari, Bithoor.

Tiketrai Shiv Mandir, Bithoor, Uttar Pradesh, India.

The religious, cultural and political importance of Bithoor is well known. There has been a tradition of building temples/buildings here by various kings. Nawab Ghaziuddin Haider of Awadh, who was the third son of Nawab Saadat Ali, became the Nawab after the death of his father in 1814 and died in 1827 AD, during his reign Raja Tikaitarai was the diwan and minister of Awadh Nawab, who continued this tradition. Got this magnificent temple built.

One of the many features of this temple construction is that it appears that the structure of the temple is built on the roof of the first floor which is rectangular. The thick walls on which the rectangular roof of the first or ground floor rests are blind arches, and inner arches are also supporting the roof. And one of these is the entrance that leads to the steps of the temple and the water of the Ganges. This temple is east facing as Ganga remains in the North. While approaching from Tulsi Ram Ghat Eastern façade is visible which has a hanging balcony built with decorated stone pillars and multi lobed stone arches and balustrade railings.

The temple is built at the centre of the rectangular roof which is a square chamber. This sanctum can be accessed from all the four directions. In the east at the centre line of the temple a stone Trishul is erected on an octagonal decorated stone pillar as a column of honour. The shaft of this stone pillar has inscriptions and also the images of Goddess Parvati or her incarnations.

Its four walls are identical and provisioned with decorated Toran Dwar in the centre and decorated niches either side with carved floral motifs. Cornice, Chajja and balustrade are the decorative and protective elements. Toran dwar which is suspended on stone pillars is projected as the corners are projected. The roof is adorned with an octagonal ribbed dome with inverted lotus, topped by finial and the base also resembles the smaller domes. Corners are raised as minarets. In the centre of the door above the balustrade a third replica of the central dome bears the images of Ganesha and above of Surya in all the four directions. To access the sanctum steps and white marble Nandi is sitting in the Northeast direction and at the centre black test or Kasoti stone’s Linga as chief deity. The northern wall of the courtyard is impressive as it is built in the form of Baradari in east and west directions too. Decorated stone pillars, multifoil arches and lattices are used in Baradari construction. The whole structure has red stone cladding as this Ghat is known as Patthar Ghat.

It’s a major attraction among devotees and visitors.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/yav35VJBgM6VFFnB7

12 Likes

Very beautiful front view @rizbab28 thanks for sharing it here. This temple looks ancient but still in a very good condition :blush: .

2 Likes

@Mukul_Anand

Hi,

Thanks Bhai, it’s almost 175 years old and in excellent condition and worship is continued.

You may go through the other pictures as I shared the link in this post.

Regards,

Rizwan

2 Likes

@Goswami_mitali

Hi,

It’s an incredible achievement as appreciated by you and I like your insight.

Looking forward to have your wonderful posts and contributions.

Warm Wishes

Rizwan

2 Likes

@rizbab28

So detailed post as I was wandering over there. I learnt a lot thanks.

1 Like