Proposed redevelopment of ekamra kshetra as a cultural nub, Bhubaneshwar, Odisha

Abstract

Bhubaneswar in Odisha, India, is known as the ‘Temple City’. This culturally rich land fails to be highlighted before the International audience. Due to religious restrictions, not all tourists are allowed to visit the temples. The rich cultural diversity of Bhubaneswar is shown throughout the year. The Odia saying ’Bara Masa Re Tera Parba’ speaks about how the celebration of thirteen festivals in twelve months keeps the atmosphere culturally rich in Odisha throughout the year. An intervention is needed to highlight these events and diversities to the international and national tourists as well as give the visitors a feel of the traditional ‘Parikrama’ (Religious tour) that the devotees take. This thesis project is an attempt to Design a ‘Parikrama’ for the tourists and Design an interpretation centre for them to enjoy the Lingaraj Culture in the vicinities of Bindusagar Lake. An interpretation Centre, a viewing deck for the Lingaraj temple, A resting area with view from Sua-Sari temple and a Gallery of Temple evolution are the Interventions made through this thesis to plan a ‘Parikrama’ around the Bindusagar Lake.