Nestled amidst a cluster of temples situated in the eastern part of Bishnupur, the Lalji Temple commands attention with its majestic presence set against landscaped gardens and towering above an enclosed walled compound. Unfortunately, during my visit, this was the only temple in the town that remained elusive for a close-up exploration. Despite my attempts to persuade the guards, the temple was closed for renovation. Nonetheless, I managed to capture images of the temple from a significant mound located to the south of the temple compound.
Constructed in 1658 by Bir Singha Dev, the 52nd ruler of the Malla dynasty and father of Durjan Singha Dev, who built the exquisite Madan Mohan temple to the north of the town, the Lalji Temple is dedicated to Sri Radhika and Sri Krishna. Bir Singha Dev’s reign lasted for 26 years, from 1656 to 1682, suggesting that the temple was likely meant to make a powerful statement at the beginning of his rule.
The temple features a covered ambulatory and is built from laterite, adorned with ornamental stucco decorations on low relief carvings. While traces of paintwork remain, any terracotta panels that may have once adorned the temple facade have long disappeared.
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