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THE
PRESENT TEMPLE
The Dwarakanath Mandir lies on the bank of Gomati, precisely at the
point of its confluence with the sea. It is 50 meter high and the
highest of its kind in India. Tradition records of its being built
in a single night. The tall tapering spires are supported - by 60
columns and the exterior is embellished with rich sculpture. It is
built on an elevated spacious ground with flights of stairs on all
sides and surrounded by two high walls with adequate space between
them for circumambulation. Its grandeur is heightened by its tall
majestic, seven storied tower, measuring about 140 feet in height.
It is a landmark imbued with spirituality by its saffron flag atop
fluttering always and is visible to people far off, say some 20
miles even. This magnificent tower rises over the large Mandap of
five storeys and a huge dome supported by sixty pillars inside. On
the outer side, it is beautified with sculptural adornments of rare
craftsmanship that attract both theists and tourists. Around the
sanctum sanctorum there are many minishrines dedicated to Trivikram,
Pradyumna
and Kuseswara Mahadeo. Pilgrims normally visit everyone of them
before entering the main Mandir. The Sarada Peetha established by
his Holiness Jagadguru Sankaracharya lies next to Trivikram shrine
and it is receiving equal and undivided attention, though Saivatc
traditions are followed here. As a matter of fact it has become an
integral part of the Dwarakadish shrine, thereby emphasizing the
essential harmony prevailing in this divya thirlha. There is a small
Durga shrine near the entrance lying far below the ground level, and
appearing as if it is Patala Durga. The broad stairs provided enable
the devotees to reach the feet of the Jaganmatha for offering,
prayers and receiving Her blessings, and frankly speaking its oddity
of location draws everyone to Her feet without exception.
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