Naroshankar Temple

Situated in Panchavati area, on the bank of river Godavari - fondly called Anga by the locals - is the Naroshankar Temple of Rameshwar built by Naroshankar Rajebahaddur in 1747. The architectural style of the temple is called 'Maya' style. It is one of the most beautiful pieces of temple architecture from the 18th century. The main temple is on a platform. The sculpture on the outer part of the temple is stunning with rows of striking designs. One layer is of decorative lacework. The next one is that of peacocks holding bead garlands. Facing four directions are statues of the saints in Padmasana - one holding a rosary, the other one a holy book - all scholars. Some of the statues are deformed. Their hands are broken. There is also an assembly of animals - tigers, monkeys, elephants etc. This depicts that Hindu culture is not limited only to human beings but also is tied to birds, animals, trees, and nature in general. The temple is surrounded by 11 feet of fortification. In its four corners are umbrellas - called "Meghadambari" or "Barasati". One of them was washed away by the Godavari floods and only three exist presently. The fortification also centres a "Bell house" in the front part.