06/02/2025
The Kapilash Temple, also known as the Mahadev Chandrashekhar Temple, is situated in the northeastern part of Dhenkanal town, Odisha, India, approximately 26 kilometers from the district headquarters. The temple is located at an elevation of about 2,239 feet above sea level. The main tower of the temple stands at a height of 60 feet.
There are two approaches to the temple: one involves climbing 1,352 steps, while the other is through the Barabanki or by taking the winding road. The temple was constructed by King Narasinghdeva I of the Ganga Dynasty in 1246 CE, as indicated in the Kapilash Temple inscription, in honor of Sri Chandrasekhar.
On the left side of the temple is the Payamrta K***a, and on the right side is the Marichi K***a. The temple features a wooden Jagamohana, and deities such as Sri Ganesh, Kartikeya, and Gangadevi are found within. Additionally, Patita Pavana Jagannath is installed in the temple as the Parsva Deva. The Lord Vishwanath Temple is also situated in Kapilash, and according to some scholars, it is older than the Chandrasekhar Temple, earning it the nickname "Budha Linga."
Kapilash Pitha is steeped in legend and significance. Tradition describes it as the ashram of Kapila, while some scholars believe it to be the second Kailash of Lord Shiva. The renowned Shridhar Swami, who wrote commentaries on the Bhagavata Purana, is said to have stayed at Kapilash. The temple premises also house several monasteries, adding to the site's cultural and spiritual importance.
