Dikpala in Odisha Temple
Dikpalas are deities in Hinduism assigned to protect the cardinal (north, south, east, west) and intermediate (northeast, northwest, southeast, southwest) directions of the universe. Each Dikpala is associated with a specific direction and is believed to safeguard that area. In Odisha and other regions, these deities are often depicted in temple architecture and are worshipped to ensure balance and protection in their respective directions.
Iconographic Details:
Indra (East):
Indra, the king of the gods, is associated with the East. He is often depicted with a vajra (thunderbolt) in his hand, riding Airavata, the white elephant.
Figure: 1, Indra
Agni (Southeast):
Agni, the god of fire, guards the southeast direction. He is usually depicted riding a ram or a chariot pulled by red horses, carrying a torch, or a flaming staff.
Figure: 2, Agni
Yama (South):
Yama, the god of death, rules the southern direction. He is often depicted with a mace and a buffalo as his mount.
Figure: 3 Yama
Nirrti (Southwest):
Nirrti is the goddess of misfortune and is associated with the southwest direction. She is depicted with disheveled hair, holding a sword and a shield.
Figure: 4, Nirrti
Varuna (West):
Varuna, the god of the cosmic ocean, guards the west. He is often portrayed riding on a makara (mythical sea creature) and carrying a noose.
Figure: 5, Varuna
Vayu (Northwest):
Vayu, the god of the wind, governs the northwest direction. He is depicted riding a deer or an antelope and carrying a flag.
Figure: 6, Vayu
Kubera (North):
Kubera, the god of wealth, is associated with the north. He is often portrayed riding a man or a yaksha and holding a mongoose, a pomegranate, or a money bag.
Figure: 7, Kubera
Ishana (Northeast):
Ishana, also known as Shiva, presides over the northeast direction. He is often depicted with a trident (trishula) and a deer, and sometimes with a third eye.
Figure: 8, Ishana
Directions
The worship of Dikpalas is significant in Hindu temple architecture, as they are considered protectors of the sacred space. Temples often have images or sculptures of Dikpalas placed strategically following the cardinal and intermediate directions.
Figure: 9, Diagram