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Dikpala

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Dikpala in Odisha Temple

Dikpala (Sanskrit: दिशा + पाल, “guardian of directions”) refers to deities assigned to protect the eight directions of the universe. Each Dikpala governs a specific direction and maintains cosmic balance. In Odisha’s Kalinga architecture, these deities are sculpted on the outer walls of temples, safeguarding the sanctum and symbolizing universal order.

Iconographic Descriptions

1. Indra (East)

Indra Dikpala Odisha Temple
Figure 1: Indra

Indra, king of the gods, holds a vajra and rides the elephant Airavata.

2. Agni (Southeast)

Agni Dikpala Odisha Temple
Figure 2: Agni

Agni, god of fire, rides a ram or flame-chariot.

3. Yama (South)

Yama Dikpala Odisha Temple
Figure 3: Yama

Yama, god of death and justice, rides a buffalo and carries a mace and noose, upholding justice and cosmic discipline.

4. Nirrti (Southwest)

Nirrti Dikpala Odisha Temple
Figure 4: Nirrti

Nirrti, goddess of decay and misfortune, represents destructive yet transformative forces.

5. Varuna (West)

Varuna Dikpala Odisha Temple
Figure 5: Varuna

Varuna, lord of the cosmic waters, rides a makara and holds a noose.

6. Vayu (Northwest)

Vayu Dikpala Odisha Temple
Figure 6: Vayu

Vayu, the wind god, rides an antelope and carries a fluttering banner.

7. Kubera (North)

Kubera Dikpala Odisha Temple
Figure 7: Kubera

Kubera, god of wealth, appears stout-bodied with a money bag or mongoose.

8. Ishana (Northeast)

Ishana Dikpala Odisha Temple
Figure 8: Ishana

Ishana, a serene form of Shiva, symbolizes spiritual wisdom and cosmic regulation.

Directional Arrangement

Dikpala Direction Chart Odisha Temple
Figure 9: Diagram of Dikpala directions in temple layout

The eight Dikpalas are positioned according to the Vastu Purusha Mandala, seen in major temples like Lingaraja, Rajarani, and Brahmeswar, ensuring cosmic order and symmetry.