Narasingha Deva I facts for kids

Quick facts for kids 'Langula' Narasingha Deva I
Yavanabaniballava, Hammiramanamardana, Gajapati, Paramamaheswara, Durgaputra, Purushottamaputra
Broken stone panel from Konark ruins depicting Narasingha Deva I practicing archery
Reign	1238-1264 A.D.
Successor	Bhanu Deva I
Spouse	Sita Devi (Paramara Princess of Malwa), Choda Devi (Chola Princess), etc.
House	Eastern Ganga Dynasty (Suryabansha)
Father	'Rauta' Anangabhima Deva III
Mother	Kastura Devi(Chhaya Mahadevi)
Religion	Hindu

Langula' Narasingha Deva I (Odia: ପ୍ରଥମ ଲାଙ୍ଗୂଳା ନରସିଂହ ଦେବ) was a powerful king and warrior of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty. This dynasty ruled the ancient region of Odisha in India. Narasingha Deva I reigned from about 1238 to 1264 AD.

He is famous for protecting his kingdom, Kalinga (ancient Odisha), from invaders. These invaders were Muslim forces from Bengal. They had been a threat since his father's time. Narasingha Deva I was one of the first Indian kings to fight back against these invaders. He even chased them into their own lands.

To celebrate his victories, he built the famous Konark temple. This temple is a stunning example of ancient architecture. He also built other temples and the large Raibania fort in Balasore district.

A Powerful King and Warrior

Narasingha Deva I was known for his strength and bravery. He was a skilled military leader. His reign was a time of great power for the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.

Defending the Kingdom

His father, Anangabhima Deva III, had already defended Kalinga well. Narasingha Deva I continued this strong defense. He made sure his kingdom was safe from attacks.

He didn't just defend; he also went on the offensive. He pushed back the invaders from Bengal. This was a bold move for a ruler of his time.

Building Great Structures

Narasingha Deva I was also a great builder. He ordered the construction of many important buildings. These structures show the amazing skill of the people in his kingdom.

The Konark Sun Temple

The Konark temple is his most famous creation. It is dedicated to the Sun God. This temple was built to remember his important victories. It stands as a symbol of his power and faith.

The temple is known for its detailed carvings and grand design. It looks like a giant chariot with twelve wheels. Each wheel is intricately carved.

Raibania Fort

He also built the Raibania fort in Balasore. This was the largest fort complex in Eastern India. It was important for defending the kingdom.

Images for kids

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  Narasingha Deva I listening to the wise sermons of his teacher along with his queens

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  Sculpture at Konark depicting Narasingha Deva I seated atop a war elephant and being presented with a giraffe by some African merchants

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  Detached Konark stone panel showing Brahmins asking for alms from Narasingha Deva I with the image of Jagannath visible in the background

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  Kapilash temple in Dhenkanal constructed during Narasingha Deva I

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  Ruins of Konark Sun temple constructed during Narasingha Deva I's reign

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  Simhachalam temple (specifically the inner sanctum) was built during the rule of Narasingha Deva I