Prapitamaheshavara Temple and Shankata Devi Temple

Item

Title
Prapitamaheshavara Temple and Shankata Devi Temple
Brief history
The temple seems to have been constructed more recently since it is not mentioned in the previous surveys of Gaya (including Patil’s account). The sculptural pieces within the temple precincts and outside (beneath the pipal tree) seem to be of the early medieval period.
Local tradition
The temple is maintained and regulated by the locals, who worship here.
Structure
A small rectangular temple within which multiple sculptures have been plastered. Marble and tiles have been used to beautify the shrine. There is a pipal tree just across from the temple, beneath which a platform has been raised. Several broken and eroded images have been placed on the platform.
Location
Lakhana pura locality
Geographic coordinates (latitude, longitude)
24°46'27.51", 85°00'33.32"
Approachs
500 meters south of the Vishnupada
Airport
Gaya
Railway station
Gaya
Bus stand
Gaya
Topographical features
It is located at the southern edge of the Mundaprstha hill. The temple is not too far from the Phalgu river but the river is not visible from the temple. It is located within a settlement.
Building materials
Brick
stones
marble
tiles
Usage
Temple is used locally by the inhabitants of Lakhanpura locality, who worship Siva linga, other Shaiva images and the AstaMatrika panel.
Protection status
Sculptures inside the shrine are plastered and seem safe since the temple has a grill and lock. However, broken fragments outside are unsafe but they may not attract any attention because of their present condition.
Subject
Hindu temples--India
Omeka identifier
sci-site13-01
Present condition
Most sculptures here are eroded and broken.