Bhubaneswar, Temple city in Odisha, India
Bhubaneswar is the capital of Odisha in eastern India, known for its many temples from different periods. The sanctuaries spread across the city, with carved stone walls, tall towers, and courtyards where worshippers gather and religious ceremonies take place.
The city was founded in the 2nd century before Christ and served as a religious center for centuries. It became the capital of Odisha state in 1948, replacing the former capital Cuttack.
Pilgrims visit the temples throughout the year, especially during religious festivals when processions move through the streets and bells ring continuously. Families gather on holy days to bring offerings and pray together while priests perform rituals and chant sacred mantras.
The city is connected by an international airport to other parts of India, and roads lead to the different neighborhoods. Visitors can easily walk around the older temple areas, while auto-rickshaws and taxis are available for longer distances.
A German architect designed the modern part of the city in the 1960s as a planned urban development with organized sectors and wide avenues. This section contrasts with the narrow lanes around the old temples, showing two different faces of the same city.
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