Sukreswar Temple, A Sacred Gem of Assam.

This ppt is about sukreswar temple in assam

1. A Sacred Gem on the Banks of the Brahmaputra Sukreswar Temple Submitted by : Bithika Das

2. Location Location: Sandhyachal Hill, Paanbazar , Guwahati, Assam

Coordinates: 26.1842° N, 91.7562° E

Access: Easily reachable from all parts of the city, especially via the MG Road, a main arterial route.

3. Historical Significance According to the Yogini Tantra, during the transition period between the Dwapar Yuga and Kali Yuga, Muni Sukracharya built a Shiva Linga amidst Hastachal Hills and practiced rituals there. With the course of time, the Shiv ling got buried under the earth due to a massive earthquake, but, was later rediscovered and extracted by the Ahoms during the reign of Pramatta Singha and was later made into a temple in 1744. Eventually, the temple came to be known as Sukreswar Temple after Sukracharya . Painting of sage Sukracharya

4. Sukreswar Temple Mandapa Temple Office Shiv Temple Janardan Temple Dashakarma Griha Yagna Kunda Temple Office Vedic School Functional Hall Guest House Temple Complex Courtyard

5. Entrance gate of Sukreswar Temple Rear elevation of the gate

6. Entrance of the Sukrewar Temple Mandapa of the temple

7. Entrance of the Garbagriha The Garbagriha has an octagonal plan and it houses one of the largest shivlings in India

8. Architectural Features Pyramidal Shikhara : The temple has a typical pyramidal-style shikhara (tower) above the sanctum which has smooth curves and rhythmic vertical bands giving it a sense of continuity and ascension, symbolic of reaching towards the divine. Crowning Element : The amalaka like disc stacked on top of each other has lotus petal ornamentations and the addition of the trident and “ ॐ ” further emphasizes the temple’s dedication to Lord Shiva. Layered Base : The visible layering at the base of the shikhara roots it in stability and strength, resembling the octagonal bases found in traditional Ahom structures. Exterior of the temple Kordoi rekha (Horizontal Lines of a starfruit)

9. Plan UP DOWN GARBAGRIHA BHOG GHAR MANDAPA Octagonal Base : The base of the Garbagriha is octagonal, a hallmark of Ahom temple design with a rectangular Mandapa .

10. The office is adjacent to the temple and the pathway between them leads one to the terraced courtyard of the temple This temple courtyard is used for spiritual gatherings and rituals

11. A staircase to the left of the temple leads one down to passage for sukreswar ghat . Sukreswar Ghat – Shraddha and Abhishekham are performed.

12. One of the oldest shiva lingas Extracted stone sculptures which have worn as they are not taken care of

13. Lord Ganesh Nandi Sculptures inside the temple Kartikeya Maa Tara

14. Sculpture of Radha Krishna (Left) And Ganesh (Right) Idol of Radha and Krishna

15. Sukleswar Temple Daily Worship Routine Morning Rituals ( Pratahkal Pooja): Opening of the Temple: The temple opens early in the morning, usually around 5:00 AM, especially during auspicious days. Mangala Aarti : The first aarti of the day, offered to Lord Shiva, usually takes place after the temple opens. Abhishek (Ritual Bathing): The main Shiva Lingam is bathed with water, milk, yogurt, honey, and ghee as part of the Abhishek ceremony. Alankar (Decoration): The deity is then decorated with flowers, bilva (bel) leaves, sandalwood paste, and other sacred items. Offering of Bhog ( Naivedya ): Devotees offer fresh fruits, sweets, and food to Lord Shiva during this time.

16. Afternoon Rituals ( Madhyahn Pooja): Aarti and Bhajans : Devotees perform aarti and sing bhajans in praise of Lord Shiva. Naivedya Offering: Additional offerings of food ( bhog ) are made to the deity. Evening Rituals (Sandhya Aarti ): Sandhya Aarti : The evening aarti typically happens around sunset, which is considered an auspicious time for worship. Abhishek and Aarti : Similar to the morning, there may be another round of Abhishek followed by aarti . Prayers and Offerings: Devotees often perform personal prayers and offer flowers, fruits, and incense to the deity. Closing Rituals: Shayana Aarti : This is the final aarti of the day before the temple closes. It is performed before putting the deity to rest for the night. Temple Closure: The temple usually closes around 8:00 or 9:00 PM, but this can vary depending on the time of year or specific events.

17. CONCLUSION The Sukreswar Temple in Assam stands as a profound testament to the state's rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Perched on the Sukreswar Hill along the mighty Brahmaputra River, this historic temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, draws devotees and tourists alike with its religious significance and serene ambiance. Its remarkable architectural features and the presence of one of the largest Shiva lingas in India further underscore its importance. Beyond its spiritual essence, the temple offers breathtaking panoramic views, making it a haven for those seeking peace and introspection. The Sukreswar Temple continues to symbolize the harmonious blend of faith, history, and natural beauty, preserving its place as a cherished landmark of Assam.