Shree Rajiv Lochan Temple Chhattisgarh

Rajiv Lochan Temple is a temple located in Rajim, in the Indian state of Chattisgarh. It is dated to the 8th century CE.

The temple is located in the middle of a courtyard, with four subsidiary shrines at four corners. The temple consists of a mandapa, an ante-chamber, and a sanctum, with the sanctum being surmounted by a shikhara. It is noted for its elaborately carved doorways, pillars, and pilasters, depicting various Hindu gods, goddesses, and other figures.

The principal deity worshipped here is a four-armed form of Vishnu. The temple is located on the route towards Jagannatha Dham, and is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year.

History
There are two inscriptions within the temple. The first inscription states that it was constructed by Vilasatunga of the Nala dynasty. The inscription is undated, however, it can be dated to the 8th century CE based on paleography.The second inscription, dated 1145 CE refers to a temple built by the mythical king Jagat Pal.

The date of its construction is a matter of debate among historians. Some historians, including Alexander Cunningham date the temple to the 5th century.If that is the case, the Nala inscription probably refers to another temple, or refers to the restoration of this temple, rather than its construction.Other sources ascribe it between the 7th and 8th centuries, which is around the same time as the Nala inscription.

The temple has been renovated several times across the centuries.