Talagram, a village in
Bilaspur District of
Chhattisgarh, is home to a 5th century temple named Devrani Temple. This temple was excavated along with the adjacent
Jethani Temple. The word ‘devarani’ means ‘younger sister-in-law’.
Devrani Temple is built with dull red colored stone. A series of steps lead to the entrance, which is flanked on both sides by Yaksha figures. Beyond the entrance is an outer chamber, further ahead of which is an inner chamber. These chambers are embellished with exquisite sculptures and carvings depicting Lord Shiva and Parvati. The walls are adorned with images of other gods in Hindu mythology such as Goddess Durga, Lord Surya, Lord Kuber and Lord Kamadeva. The inner sanctum sanctorum lacks the idol of the presiding deity. However, the surrounding idols and images point out to a pre-existence of a Shivling.
Bilaspur Junction Railway Station and Raipur Airport are the nearest access points.
