Sukreswar Temple: A Treasure of Assam’s Cultural and Religious Heritage. Again, Assam is known for its diverse and vibrant culture, which is a blend of various ethnicities, traditions, and religions.
Again, the state is home to many ancient and revered temples. All these temples are not only religious centers but also repositories of Assam’s rich heritage.
In fact, one such temple that stands out for its architectural beauty, spiritual significance, and historical importance is the Sukreswar Temple.
Again the Sukreswar Temple is located on the banks of the Brahmaputra river in Guwahati, the capital city of Assam. Moreover, the Sukreswar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities of the Hindu pantheon. Since it was built during the Ahom dynasty, which ruled Assam for six centuries from the 13th to the 19th century.
However, the Ahom kings were great patrons of art, culture, and religion. They constructed many magnificent temples and monuments throughout their kingdom, including the Sukreswar Temple.
Sukreswar Temple: Ahom architectural style
Since, the temple is an example of the Ahom architectural style, which is characterized by its simplicity, elegance, and symmetry. It was built of red sandstone and consists of a sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha) and a mandapa (pillared hall), which are connected by a vestibule (antarala). The mandapa has four pillars, each adorned with intricate carvings of gods and goddesses, animals, and floral motifs.
Again, the roof of the mandapa is supported by a series of arches and decorated with friezes of elephants and peacocks.
In fact, the sanctum sanctorum houses the lingam, the phallic symbol of Lord Shiva. It is considered to be the most sacred and powerful form of the deity. The lingam is made of black stone and is surrounded by smaller lingams, which represent the other gods and goddesses of the Hindu pantheon.
In addition, the walls of the sanctum sanctorum are decorated with images of Shiva and his consort Parvati. And there are other deities and celestial beings.
