Bhusandeswar Temple, Bhograi (Balasore)

According to Wikipedia, the lingam is carved from black granite and is about 12 ft long and 14 ft wide, with only half of it visible because the other half is buried. It has three parts, with an octagonal middle section about 12 ft in diameter and nearly 4 ft high, and it leans slightly to the right. A travel blog that also describes the lingam gives a 12-foot diameter for the shaft, so published dimensions vary and should be treated as approximate.

Wikipedia records the local legend: Ravana received a Shiva lingam as a boon, with Shiva's warning not to put it down; while carrying it in his Pushpak vimana he set it down here and could not lift it again. Devotees believe the lingam then remained here. This is a tradition, not documented history.

Maha Shivaratri draws very large crowds, so plan for queues and follow police and committee instructions. Opening hours, ticket or darshan arrangements and festival dates are not reproduced here; confirm them locally before travelling.

Timings and arrangements change with seasons and festivals. Confirm current details with the temple administration before travelling. Last reviewed 1 November 2026.