Shiva Temple, Port Blair
* Location: Haddo, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
* History: The temple was built in 1950 by the first Chief Minister of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Dr. B. C. Roy.
* Architecture: The temple is built in the Dravidian style of architecture. It has a shikhara (spire) and a sanctum sanctorum (inner chamber) where the Shiva lingam is enshrined.
* Deities: The main deity of the temple is Shiva. The other deities worshipped in the temple include Parvati, Ganesha, and Murugan.
* Festivals: The temple celebrates the following festivals:
* Maha Shivaratri
* Navaratri
* Ganesh Chaturthi
* Murugan Thiruvizha
* Significance: The Shiva Temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is also a tourist attraction.
Architecture
Architecture of Shiva Temple, Port Blair
The Shiva Temple in Port Blair is a beautiful example of Dravidian architecture. It is built in the shape of a pyramid, with a square base and a tapering roof. The temple is made of white marble and has a gold-plated dome. The main entrance is on the east side, and there are two smaller entrances on the north and south sides. The temple is surrounded by a large courtyard, which is also used for religious ceremonies.
Key features of the architecture
* The temple is built in the shape of a pyramid, with a square base and a tapering roof.
* The temple is made of white marble and has a gold-plated dome.
* The main entrance is on the east side, and there are two smaller entrances on the north and south sides.
* The temple is surrounded by a large courtyard, which is also used for religious ceremonies.
Significance of the temple
The Shiva Temple is one of the most important Hindu temples in Port Blair. It is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus from all over the world. The temple is also a symbol of the cultural heritage of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Interesting facts about the temple
* The Shiva Temple was built in the 19th century by a Tamil merchant named Sethupathy Pillai.
* The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the destroyer god in the Hindu pantheon.
* The temple is one of the few Hindu temples in India that is built in the Dravidian style of architecture.
* The temple is a popular tourist destination and is visited by thousands of people every year.