Holy Pilgrimage – Temples in Odisha (Orissa) State -11 at 10:55 PM

Holy Pilgrimage – Temples in Odisha (Orissa) State

 

Markandeshwar Temple, Puri

Markandeshwar Temple is a place where sage Markandeya meditated on lord Shiva. He saw a small child on a banyan leaf floating on the sea and wondered upon. Finally lord Vishnu assured him from the doubt.

Temple at Present

The ancient Markandeswar Shiva Temple is situated in the Markandeswar street by the side of the Markandeswar tank, to the north of the Jagannath temple, Puri. This place can be approached on the right side of Markandeswar road leading from Markandeswar chowk to Puri-Brahmagiri road. Markandeya tank is an open structure and it enclosed within a stone wall made of dressed laterite blocks. Bathing ghats are provided for the tourists in southern side of the tank. The tank is presently used for rituals as well as for normal bathing. Rituals like Pinda Dana, Mundan Kriya etc. are observed on the steps of the tank. Both Markandeswar temple and Markandeswar tank can be dated back to the 12th century AD. Puri became an important center of pilgrimage by the 12th century. The history in Puri also proves that Sri Ramanuja visited Puri during 1107 and 1117

 

 

Mausimaa Temple, Odisha

Mausimaa Temple is an ancient shrine in Ganjam District of Orissa. The temple can be approached by road from Bhubaneswar (140 km) and Chhatrapur (102 km). The nearest railway station is at Berhampur (88 km). It is about 8 km from Bhanja Nagar.
The presiding deity of the temple is aunty (Mother's Sister) of Lord Jagannath.
The temple celebrates its festival during the Rath Yatra held in the Jagannath Temple (Puri). Upper Bagh Devi Temple and Ratneswar Mahadev temple are important shrines nearby.
This temple is located in Kullada, a village also famous for its Bagdevi temple in Ganjam district.

 

 Talesavara Siva Temple – II, Bhubaneswar

Talesavara Siva Temple – II is a Hindu temple located in Bhubaneswar, Orissa, India. Talesvara Siva temple is located in the Bharati Matha precinct in Badhaibanka chowk, Old town, Bhubaneswar. The shrine includes a Siva lingam and a circular shrine. The upper part of the temple was renovated by Matha authorities with the financial support of a devotee.
It is owned by Bharti Matha. Pranava Kishore Bharati Goswami is the Matha Mahanta.

Physical description

• This temple is situated within the precinct of Bharati matha. It is surrounded by the burials of the Matha Mahantas in the east and Matha entrance in the north.
• The temple faces west.
• The building is made up off Coarse grained sand stone and shows dry masonry technique.
• The anuratha paga of the temple is decorated with a series of ghata-pallava.
• The temple is partially buried up to the pabhaga portion.

 

Chateshwar Temple, Odisha

t is a living temple and the presiding deity is a patalaphuta Shivalinga within a circular yonipitha.It is located in the Krushnapur village near Bahugram in Cuttack district.

 Architecture

On the basis of a number of detached sculptures of different faiths like Saivite and Sakta, the original temple can be assigned to the Eastern Ganga dynasty rule during 12th Century AD.A miniature four- armed Vishnu, broken images of Chamunda, Surya and Buddha, Udyotasimha, Nandi, miniature temple and other architectural members.The temple is pancharatha on plan and the bada has multi-segmented horizontal mouldings in elevation.

Festivals

Major ones are Shivaratri, Kartik Purnima and Margashirsha Purnima. Mondays and Sankranti days one can see a large crowd.It is easily accessed by road from Cuttack via Jagatpur.

Cuttack the ancient capital of Orissa carries historic  temples of ancient time. Some of them are Dhabaleswar temple, Cuttack Chandi temple, Astasambhu temple, Gadagadia Mahadev temple, Gadachandi temple etc.

• Ashta Sambhu Temple ruins (12th cent) at Chaudar near Cuttack

• Chateswar Temple at Kishenpur near Cuttack

• Cuttack Chandi temple is one of the old temples of Cuttack. Goddess Cuttack Chandi is regarded as the protector of the Cuttack city.

• Dhabaleswar Temple was built by Pratap Rudra Dev. This temple is situated in an island of Mahanadi river. It is well known for its scenic beauty.

• Gada Chandi Temple is situated in the historic Barbati Fort which is well known for its role in Orissa's history.

• Gadagadia Mahadev Temple is situated in the banks of Mahanadi river.

• Indrasthana Temple at Amaravati near Cuttack

• Padmeswar Temple at Baneswarnasi near Narasinghpur (Cuttack)

• Paschimeswar Temple at Amangai Island near Khanderpur (Athgarh - Cuttack)

• Simhanath Temple at Simhanath Island near Baideswar (Cuttack)

• Tarakeshwar Temple at Ganeshwarpur near Cuttack

• Angeshwar Temple at Pitapara near Niali

• Madhavanand Temple at Madhava near Niali

• Sobhaneshwar Temple at Niali

• Trilochaneshwar Temple at Sadansa near Niali

 

 

Simhanath Temple, Odisha

Simhanath Temple is dedicated to Shiva who is worshipped by Nrisimha, an avatar of Vishnu. The temple has a rekha deula and terraced roof jagamohana of traditional phase of temple style of Kalingan order. The temple is unique for its sculptural embellishment of both the Saivaite and Vaishnava cult. It is located in the Gopinathpur village, Baramba tehsil of Cuttack district. It can be easily approached by road from Cuttack, Chaudwar and Athgarh.

Archaeology

The garbhagriha has a Shivalinga with yonipatta attached to earth. The temple is of Panchayatana style practised by Adi Shankara.Temples dedicted to Vishnu, Ganesh, Surya and Mahishamardini are found around the temple. The temple represents early development of Pancharatha Deula of Kalingan Architecture. On the basis of survey, the temple can be assigned to early 9th Century AD.

Festivals

Shivaratri, Makar Sankranti, Dussehra, Kartik Purnima are mostly famous festivals here. People who do Upanayana and Marriage also prefer this place as a nice option.

 

 

 

Kendrapada District Temples, Odisha

Kendrapada district is noted for Baladevjew temple. Other well known temples of this district are Gojabayani temple, Bhagawati temple.

§         Baladevjew (Kendrapada)  It is situated in Kendrapada, 95 km from Bhubaneswar. Known to the pilgrims as "Tulasi Kshetra', Kendrapada houses the temple of Lord Baladev. The rites and rituals of Lord Jagannath at Puri are generally followed here . Lord Baladev's Rath yatra is also famous as that of the car festival of Puri Jagannath.

§         Maa Gojabayani Temple Pilgrims come here to offer prayers to Goddess Gojabayani for the fufilling their desires.

§         Bhagawati Temple at Vateshwar near Salepur

 

Some of the other Temples in Odisha

• Bhramheswar Temple at Beraboi near Delang
• Bhringeswar Mahadev Temple (8th century) at Bajrakot near Talcher
• Chandrasekhar Temple at Kapilas Hill near Kapilas
• Charchika Temple at Amareshwar near Konark
• Daksheswar Temple at Banapur
• Indralath (Vishnu) Temple (10th cent) at Ranipur - Jharial near Titlagarh
• Jagannath Temple at Palur near Rambha
• Kanakeswar Temple (8th-9th cent) at Kualo (Kodalaka) near Talcher
• Kapileswar Temple at Charda near Binka (Balangir)
• Kosaleswar Temple at Anandapur (Degaon)
• Kosaleswar Temple at Baidyanath near Solangir
• Kosaleswar Temple (9th cent) at Patnagarh near Sonepur
• Mahavinayak Temple at Chandikhol
• Mahendragiri Temples at Mahendragiri (South Ganjam)
• Manikeswar Temple at Sukleshwar near Talcher
• Narasimhanath Temple at Nrusingnath near Padmapur (Sambalpur)
• Nilamahadev Temple at Gandharadi near Bauda (Phulabani)
• Pataleswar Temple (10th cent) at Budhikomna near Khariar (Raipur) Kalahandi
• Rameswar Temple at Bauda near Phulabani
• Samaleswari Temple at Sambalpur
• Shiva Temple at Badagaon near Bhanjanagar
• Siddheswar Temple at Gandharadi near Bauda (Phulabani)
• Someswar Shiva Temple at Ranipur Jharial near Titlagarh
• Suvarnameru Temple at Sonapur
• Vishwanath Temple at Krishna Prasadgarh near Amareshwar

Kapilash Temple, Odisha

Kapilash Temple is situated in the north eastern part of Dhenkanal town, Orissa, India at a distance of 26 km from the district head quarters.

Location and architecture

The temples are situated at a height of about 2239 feet from sea level. The main tower of the temple is 60 feet tall. There are two approaches for the temple. One is by climbing 1352 steps and the other is 'Barabanki' or travelling by the twisting way.King Narasinghdeva I of Ganga Dynasty constructed the temple for Sri Chandrasekhar in 1246 A.D as indicated in the Kapilash temple inscription. In the left side of the temple the 'Payamrta kunda'and in the right side the 'Marichi kunda' exist. The temple has a wooden Jagamohana. Sri Ganesh, Kartikeya, Gangadevi, etc. are found in the temple. Patita pavana Jagannath is installed in the temple as the 'Parsa deva'. Lord Vishwanath temple is also situated in Kapilas. According to some scholars this temple is older than the Chandrasekhar temple, hence it is known as 'Budha linga'. There are many legends about Kapilash pitha and its significance. Tradition describes it as the ashram of Kapila, to some scholars it is the second Kailash of Lord Shiva. Shridhar swami who wrote commentary on Bhagavata Purana stayed there. There are some monasteries in the premises.

 

Ajaikapada Bhairava Temple, Odisha

Ajaikapada Bhairava Temple is dedicated to Ekapada Bhairava - an aspect of Shiva - present in Jagatsinghpur district of Orissa.

Historical evidence

The archaeological survey has established that the temple was built during early 10th century by the Somavamsi Keshari Kings.Later it was destroyed due to flood and attacks by non-Hindu rulers.Present temple was rebuilt during 20th century.

Architecture

Current temple is a small Pidha deula reconstructed during early 20th century but the Garbhagriha houses the image of Bhairava and a Shivalinga.The bhairava is having one feet and four hands of which lower two are broken.The upper two hold disc shaped structures.The Ajaikapada Bhairava is the ruling deity of the star Pūrva Bhādrapadā.It is evident that someone who was expert in Astrology and Tantra established this temple

Location

The temple is located at a distance of 6 km from Alanahat,Sathalapada in Jagatsinghpur,near river Alaka(a branch of Mahanadi).Direct transport is available from Nuagaon too.

 

Ananta Shayana, Odisha

The Ananta Shayana murti of Lord Vishnu is situated in Bhimkund, Orissa, India at a distance of about 28 kilometres from Talcher.

Description

The idol is under the open sky. The sleeping image of Vishnu at Bhimakund is second only to Gomateswar (Karnataka) in size. It is the largest sleeping image in India. In spite of its magnanimity, the image contains a natural softness. Recent excavations prove it to be from 8th century. Many pilgrims come to view the statue of Lord Vishnu on Ekadashi and Purnimas.

 

Address	:	Village (village code)	Bhimakanda (NTPC)
Post : NTPC		Via: Kaniha
Tehsil: Talcher		District: Angul
State : Orissa		PIN: 759105

Approach

It is situated within the compound of NTPC power plant, on the right bank of the river Tikira, a tributary of river Brahmani.

 

Annakoteshvara Temple, Odisha

Annakoteshwara Temple or Urnakoteshvara is located in Latadeipur near Gondia tehsil in Dhenkanal district. The Temple is dedicated to Shiva.

Architecture

The temple is a Pancharatha temple having Rekha deula(Vimana) and a Pidha deula. The temple is decorated with Khakharamundi and Pidhamundis along the main Vimana. Several detached sculptures are kept in care. On the basis of construction the temple can be said to be built around 16th century during Suryavamsi Gajapati rule. The Garbhagriha houses a circular Yonipeetha only. The Lingamurthy is displaced by attacks of Kalapahad who was a Muslim invader from the nawabs of Bengal near Murshidabad. The temple can be approached by 22 km north of Dhenkanal township via Joranda Gadhi

 

Jagannatha Temple, Dharakote, Odisha

Dharakote  , famous for Lord Sri Jagannath temple, is a block in Ganjam district in the Indian state of Orissa.
 Dharakote is famous for Lord Sri Jagannath temple. The Dharakote Temple looks similar to Puri Temple. Ekadasi Cart festival is famous among local people.
The village Dharakote is a beautiful place. It’s a fantastic to look the geography structure liable climate stone creative ancient archeology & beauty of nature with mountain, fountain, stream, pool, forest, river & garden and also the 600 years old Maharaja Palace.

 

Dharakote Maharaja Palace

This is a 600 years old King's palace, Palacial Building of the King of Dharakote. The palace is situated just beside the Jagannath Temple. PRESENT RULER: Rani Sulakhyana Gitanjali Devi, present Rani Saheb of Dharakote since 28th May 2010.

Sati Chita (Sati's Pyre)

It is said that Raja Jaganath Singh(1788/1830) on returning to his Palace after a hunt, saw a ray of light coming from inside a hut. The Raja entered the hut and saw a holy man meditating in front of a fire. The Holy man told the Raja that this was the place where Rani Chandama Devi had committed Sati. The Raja was impressed and immediately ordered the construction of a Math over that place, and later descendants of the Dharakote Royal family have kept the flame burning ever since, with the task of keeping the flame alive being entrusted to the Head Priests of the Math. The fire, known popularly as Sati Chita (Sati's Pyre) is tended to by a Mahant (Head Priest) at Sathi Math which is built on 9 acres of land at the entrance of Dharakote fort.

 

Harihara Deula, Odisha

Harihara Deula or the Twin Temples are dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu.It is situated near the bank of Mahanadi,in a village named Gandharadi in Boudh district.

Architecture

The architecture of the twin temples are supposed to be of late 10th century, which mark the rising and reforming stage of Kalingan Architecture.The builders of this shrine are Somavamsi Kshatriya Kings. It marks the harmony between the cults of Shiva and Vishnu.It was built at a time when other parts of India were busy in fighting between the two sects following above two forms of one supreme. The main Vimana is of Rekha Deula.The Jagamohana is of flat roofed temple.

Siddhesvara Temple

The Shiva Temple houses Shivalinga which is named as Siddhesvara.It is also same structure as above.

Nilamadhava Temple

The Vishnu Temple has a Vigraha made of black chlorite and has four hands having all weapons and ornaments.

Transport

It is very close to Boudh and transport facilities by bus are available from Bhubaneswar, Subarnapur and Berhampur up to Boudh

 

 

Mahavinayak Temple, Odisha

Mahavinayak temple is a major center of pilgrimage and one of the oldest Ganesha temples in Orissa. In Orissa there are five different Kshetras or religious centers celebrated for these Pancha Devata (Five God)viz: Vinayaka or Ganesh kshetra at Mahavinayak hills in the district of Jajpur, Vishnu or Sankha (the attributes in the hands of Lord Vishnu) Kshetra at Puri, Shiva or Ekamra Kshetra at Bhubaneswar, Durga or Viraja Kshetra at Jajpur or Yajanapur. Mahavinayak enshrines the five god heads in one Lingam. It is a place of worship for Ganapati.
Since Ganapati or Vianyak is revered here so its name is 'Mahavianyak'. The speciality of Mahavinayak temple is that the Pancha Devata [five Gods] 'Shiva','Vishnu','Durga','Sun' and 'Ganapati' are worshipped as a single deity in a single sanctum sanctorum. In no other Hindu temples such tradition of worship is present.

Location of the place

There is no revenue village/area as Chandikhole and the place is so named after Goddess "Chandi" worshipped by late monk Baba Bhairabananda Bramhachari who established the deity of Maa Chandi in one of the adjoining hills of Barunei full of dense forest and ferrocious animals in 1932. The revenue village is in Darpani under Darpan ex-estate in Jajpur district, Orissa. Chandikhole has special position in Orissa and its people and who can forget the line "Manda pitha gol gol chal jiba Chandikhole" and Chandikhole Peda made out of Khoya (skimmed thickened milk).
It is 40 km north to Cuttack besides National Highway (NH 5) and South Eastern Railway and 4 km away from NH towards west via Sukinda-Paradip Expressway and also 70 km away from state capital Bhubaneswar in the same NH 5. The nearest bus stop is at Chandikhole chhak(4 km) and the nearest railway station is at Dhanmandal and Haridaspur both 6 km distant with auto rickshaw facility throughout.The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik Airport in Bhubaneswar.
One long hill of the Eastern Ghat mountain ranges named Barunei or Baruna or Barunabanta adjoining 7 hills stretches from southeastern railway line up to Darpanigarh in east-west direction with beautiful green covering full of perennial source of water(spring) in side it from bottom to the middle of the hill. The mountain looks like a Sleeping Elephant.
This place is also included in connection of "Golden triangle pilgrimage plan" such as Rantagiri-Lalitgiri (Buddhist Sculpture centers), Chatia Bata and Chandikhole. The Govt of India is assisting for their improvement. In first adjoining foothill base, there is the temple of Goddess Chandi and in the second foothill base there is the famous temple of Mahavinayak. In both the places there are perennial springs(named Golden Spring) with pucca swimming ponds for bathing. Just at the middle of the hill and just above Mahavinayak temple there is another temple dedicated to Maa Banadurga with the miracle that the perennial source of water/spring is also present there at a height of 100 meters. One can go there using the steps(around 120) and the road facility to the temple is under construction.

Legends

It is a place of both mythological and historical importance. This sculpture (i.e. the Mahavinayak temple) has been constructed by the kings of Keshari Dynasty of Orissa during 12th Century and later it became the centre of worship of Darpan King.
Rati Devi, the wife of Kamadev worshipped here for the release of her husband from the curse of Lord Shiva for which while she was offering her prayer to Lord Ganesh simultaneously five hands were stretched out towards her to receive her offer and she,being in dilemma, when prayed to Bramha, Bramha clarified that five Gods named Ganesh,Sun,Vishnu,Shiva and Durga had been over pleased with her prayer and at a time they had stretched their hand to receive her offer. So Kamadev was released thereafter and from the very day five Gods unitedly in one granite stone with huge size had emerged from the earth there.
This place is also related to Mahabharat legends. The Baruna hill area (i.e. The Barunabanta) was the capital of Yudhistir. From this place he left for the heaven by making royal charges of his empire to a teli (an oilman whom he saw first before dawn) who later became the king and his palace was named as Teligarh and the remaining of his palace is still seen just at the opposite side of the hill and the temple. The rehearsal place of Bhima is still known as "Bhima khala". During the Mahabharat battle, mother Kunti also offered one lakh swarna Champa flowers (Golden Champa Flowers) to Lord Shiva from this place for the victory of her sons to fulfill her wish.
As per another legend the detached head of Lord Ganesha fell at this place and so the place is named as Vinayak Kshetra.
Moreover, the importance of the place came to light and became popular when a cowherd boy discovered some strange sight of secretion and flowing of milk from the nipples of a calfless cow to offer feeding to the undiscovered deity. Then it became famous gradually and it claimed to be one of the best holy places not only of Orissa but also in the pilgrimage map of India as Five Gods congregated as one stonic form is unique.

Rituals

Many festivals such as Shiva ratri, Makar Sankranti, Raja are celebrated here. Shiva Ratri is celebrated for 10 days with Yagna and Homa every year with pomp and glory.Lot of people come on each Monday and Sankranti to offer their prayers. In the month of Shravana, lot of Shiva devotees offer the holy river water to fulfill their wishes.

Effect on tourism

This place has a special place in the tourism map of Orissa particularly for Shaivas(worshipper of Lord Shiva). It is a perfect picnic spot for trekkers and religious people with its densely wooded hills and sylvan spring that flows perennially through its green glades. One can reach Chandi temple through forest route from Mahavinayak temple.Its natural beauty attracts many tourist from nearby places and neighbouring states during winter and summer season. Both lodging and temple boarding facilities are available for pilgrims to stay. It is maintained by The Endowment Commissioner of Orissa with one Trustee board.
In fine, the panoramic view of the adjoined seven hills Barunei with green natural forest covering full of wild animals, its perennial springs, serenity and holiness of both Shrines with the morning and evening hymns full of devotional musical sounds, its herd of naughty monkeys snatching Bhoga(Prasadam) from the visitors inculcates the sense of devotion, sacredness and enjoyment for some moment. Their mind being detached from the hurly burly of this terrestrial life tends towards heaven to acquire heavenly bliss and above all the visit of the place leaves an indelible impression on the mind canvas of the visitors. May God Mahavinayak and Goddess Chandi bless all.

Adjacent historical places

Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri & Udayagiri : The three Boudh Vihars are at a distance of 70 km from Cuttack. The famous Buddhist Complex is said to be ancient seat of Puspagiri, the buddhist university of 7th century A.D. Recently a statue of emperor Ashok is being discovered form Langudi hill. These places are within 35 km from mahavinayak.
Gokarneswara Temple: This Shiva temple is situated in Jaraka which is just 20 km away from Chandikhole on the bank of river Bramhani.
Biraja Temple: This temple was built in 13th century. As per the name of Goddess Biraja this place is also known as Biraja Peetha. It is situated in the Jajpur town which is nearly 40 KM from Chandikhole.
Chatia Bata Temple: This temple is another famous temple of Lord Jagganath on NH 5. It is situated around 20 km from chandikhole and 25 km from Cuttack. Lots of pilgrims from Orissa and nearby states visit this place daily.

 

Mahendragiri, Odisha

Mahendragiri, is a mountain peak at in the Paralakhemundi (or Parlakhemundi) subdivision of the district of Gajapati, Orissa.It is situated amongst the Eastern Ghats at an elevation of 1,501 metres (4,925 ft).

Mythology

'महेन्द्रो मलयो सह्यो परिजात्र शुक्तिमान तथा विन्ध्य ऋक्षवान् कुल पर्वताः '
The Mahendra mountain is associated with east direction which clearly says that it is non other than Eastern Ghats. It is associated with mythological stories from the Ramayana as Mahendra Parvata (mountain). It is a 'Kula Parvata' along with Malaya, Sahyadri, Parijatra, Shuktiman, Vindhya and Malyavaan.  In the Puranas and Mahabharata that Parashurama practiced penance for a long time on the Mahendra mountain.
The epic mountain Mahendragiri is situated in Gajapati district, Orissa.Legend says that it is the place where lord Parashurama,a Chiranjeevi staying eternally and doing tapasya.Temples built by Pandavas are seen.Main festival here is Shivaratri,the worship of Shiva,the guru or percepter of lordParashurama

 

Narayana Gosain Temple, Odisha

Lord Narayan Gosain Temple is situated at Singhapur Village near Rasulpur in Jajpur district of Orissa which is dedicated to Narayana.

 Rituals

The idol of Lord Narayana Gosain is kept underwater, except for three days in a year. People in large number gather on these three days to have a glimpse of the God. And the unique annual ceremony is known as Singhapur yatra. This has been a practice here for more than four centuries.The main idol of Lord Narayan Gosain remains in a pond near the temple, Madhutirtha Kshetra, dedicated to Him. The idol is brought out on Pana Sankranti day (March – April) for three days and on the fourth day the idol is again immersed in the pond.
This is a unique tradition in the country. According to the tradition, first the King of Madhupurgarh comes and offers prayers to the Lord on the bank of the pond as Narayan Gosain is the presiding deity of the king. After the King’s puja and prayer, thousands of devotees take part in the ceremony every year, in which the idol is taken out from under the water and worshipped in the nearby temple.The ritual till 2007, the ceremony was conducted with fanfare and glory by the Late Raja of Madhupurgarh His Highness Krishna Prakash Dhir Narendra Singh. Since 2007, because of family disputes in the kingdom of Madhupur, the rituals are done by the purohits of the temple in consultation with the living Queen of Madhupurgarh Rani Deepti Devi.

History

In the 16th century, Kalapahada, a Muslim invader, after destroying numerous temples and Hindu idols reached the region. The then King of Madhupurgarh, to save the idol from Kalapahad, hid it in the pond. A few years later, Lord Narayana Gosain appeared in the dream of the King and asked him to take the idol out of the pond and worship and then to be kept back safely. This happened during Mahavisuva Sankranti or Pana Sankranti period.Since then annually, the idol is taken out of the pond on the Pana Sankranti day and worshiped for three days.

Transport

It is just situated within 20km from NH5 running between Chennai and Howrah.Buses running from Bhubaneswar to Jajpur stop at Jaraka and Kuakhia stoppage,from there one can find suitable transport.Nearest railhaid is Jajpur Keonjhar Road or Byasanagar.

 

Nilamadhav Temple, Odisha

Sri Nilamadhava Temple is very old and famous Vishnu temple which is near to the bank of Mahanadi,in Kantilo. which is present near to the twin hills with a surrounding forests. A permanent flow of holy water from the feet of Lord Nilamadhava. Lord Siddheswar is also present which are the highlights of the place.
Lord Nilamadhava occupies a central position in the cult of Lord Jagannath.Even now also Lord Nilamadhava shrine is present on the right side of Lakshmi temple in Puri Jagannath Temple.

 Location

It is located in a block called Kantilo,in Nayagarh District.Nearest railway station is Khurda.Roads are connected to Kantilo which offer regular bus services.

History

It all initiated in a small cave in the Brahmadri hills situated on the banks of Mahanadi, which is known as Kantilo of Nayagarh district today. Here, Biswabasu the local Sabara Chief worshipped Kitung, as the God was known in the Sabara dialect. According to the Puranas, the deity was originally worshipped in the form of an Indranila gem image known as “Nilamadhava". The daru murty came much later.Located near the confluence of three rivers Mahanadi, Kuanria and Kusumi the temple structure is like the Jagannath temple of Puri. It stands on the right bank of Mahanadi. It is called triveni sangam of Orissa. As there is Beni-Madhava in Prayag, so as here Nilamadhava.

Festivals

• Maagha saptami Festival or Ratha Saptami is the best festival over here.
• A fair is held on the Ekadashi of the month of Maagha

 

Ramachandi Temple, Odisha

Ramachandi Temple, is on a beautiful spot on the banks of the Kusabhadra River where it flows into the Bay of Bengal. It is only 5 km away from Konark in the Puri District of Orissa. Goddess Ramachandi, the deity of Konark is thought by some to be the presiding deity of this temple, while others thought it to be the temple of Mayadevi, wife of Surya (Sun God).

Location

The temple of Goddess Ramachandi on the river mouth of Kushabhadra river is a splendid scenic picnic resort. It is situated 7 km before Konark on the Marine drive road from Puri to Konark. Ramachandi is popularly believed the presiding deity of Konark, and the most benevolent Chandi known. It is certainly more ancient than the Sun Temple at Konark. From the architectural point of view, the temple of Ramachandi is not important but from the religious point of view, it is one of the famous Sakta pithas of Orissa.
A graceful Chandi, seated on a Lotus flower in a small temple half hidden by sand mounds, on the river mouth of Kushabhadra and the endless Bay of Bengal stretched to eternity, and a thick growth of Casuarina plantations around is the scenic maginificence of the place. Before construction of the Marine Drive road, the place was not accessible to outside visitors. However it attracted a large number of local devotees to offer sacrifices or 'Bali' in the month of Ashwina.
The pleasant sight has always fascinated young lovers, students and picnickers from far and wide. However after the construction of the Marine dive road, the place has become very easily accessible. Regular crowd of pleasure seekers both from the state, neighbouring states and distant places come here.

History

A legend regarding the deity is popular among the locals. Kalapahad, the rebel hindu Brahmin youth who got converted to Islam, vowed to destroy all the temples of hindu worship during 17^th century. After destroying the Sun temple, Kalapahad approached Ramachandi temple to destroy it. Then Goddess Ramachandi dressed as a Maluni (a maid servant) asked Kalapahad to wait at the door till she brings water from the river for the Goddess. Kalapahad anxiously waited for a long time to get some cold water. When it was too late and the Maluni did not return he was exhausted and entered inside the temple and found the throne empty. Then he thought the Maluni took away the deity with her and with anger he followed the Maluni. When he reached the bank of the Kushabhadra river he found the goddess Ramachandi floating in the middle of the river. At that time the river was outpouring, so he came back without being able to reach the middle of the river. Then Goddess Ramachandi came in dream of a Panda (priest) and told him to build a temple on the bank of the Kushabhadra river. This place is now known as Ramachandi. Throughout the year many visitors come here to get the blessing of Goddess Ramachandi and to enjoy the scenic beauty of river Kushabhadra and Bay of Bengal.
Now the temple has collapsed leaving remains of its broken walls and the empty throne. There is no historical evidence to conclude about its presiding deity

 

Sakshigopal Temple, Odisha

Sakshigopal Temple is a medieval temple dedicated to Lord Gopal located in the town of Sakshigopal on the Puri Bhubaneshwar highway in Orissa. The temple is built in the Kalinga style of temple architecture.

Origin of the Temple

It is said that a poor young man of the village, which was named as Sakhigopal later, fell in love with the daughter of the village headman. However being of a higher economical status the headman opposed marriage between this young man and his daughter. The villagers went on a pilgrimage to Kashi including the headman and the young man. The village headman fell ill and was abandoned by fellow villagers. The young man tended to him so well that he soon got well and in gratitude promised his daughter in marriage to the young man. As soon as they returned to the village the headman went back on his promise asking the young man to produce a witness in support of his claim.
Lord Gopal impressed by the young man's devotion agreed to come and bear witness to the promise on one condition that the young man lead the way and he would follow, but the young man must never look back. He led the way to the Lord but near the village was a mound of sand on which as they passed, the man could not hear the Lord's footsteps and turned back. Immediately the Lord turned into a statue of stone rooted to the spot. The villagers were however so impressed that God himself came to back the young man's claim that the youngsters were married off and appointed as the first priests of the temple built in honor of Lord Gopal who came to bear witness known in Sanskrit as Sakshi.

Amla Navami

The Temple is famous for celebrating the annual Amla Navami Festival(Amla=Gooseberry)(Navami=Ninth day in a lunar cycle).The festival is associated with the practice of touching of Radha's feet(Radha was the legendary lover of Lord Krishna).Legend has it that the temple was originally without a statue of Radha.But when a girl named Lakhmi claimed to be the incarnation of Radha,and it is believed that Lord Krishna(Here as Gopal) should not be without his true love Radha,a statue from northern India was installed here.The statue had originally Ghagra and Choli adorned but when it was clad on a traditional Saree of Orissa,the feet of the statue was visible and the priests took it for a holy sign.From that day Amla Navami is celebrated and hindu pilgrims are allowed inside the temple to touch the Goddess's feet.

 

Narasimha Temple, Puri

 

Narasimha Temple' (Oriya: Narasinha Deuḷa) is situated in Puri, to the western side of Gundicha Temple and to the east of the Indradyumna pokhari.

Architecture

The temple is facing towards west and the height of the temple is about 60 ft. Local people also called this temple as Nrusingha Temple and Nrusimha Temple.The presiding deity is Lord Narasimha. There are two images of Lord Narasimha inside the temple, one behind the other. The image in front is called Shanta Narasimha. In local language 'Shanta' means 'Calm' or 'Sober'. Anyone who sees this image of Lord Narasimha will have his anger, frustration, and anxiety will vanish. The Deity in the back is called Ugra Narasimha. In local language 'Ugra' means 'Angry'.He is the internal mood of Narasimha.

Legend

As depicted in the Skanda Purana once King Indradyumna stayed near Nilakantheswar temple to make arrangements to perform Ashwamedha Yajna (Horse sacrifice) for one thousand years. On the advice of Sage Narada, King Indradyumna made a Nrusimha image out of black stone and placed the image under black sandal wood tree and worshipped Him. It is believed that in front of this temple the Ashwamedha Yajna took place and hence He known as 'Yajna Narasimha'. Devotees will earn more punya if they make a darsana of Sri Nilakantheswar, Yagna Narasimha and Panchamuki Hanuman (Lord Hanuman image with five faced) after the sacred bath in Indradyumna Tank. Festivals like Narasimha Janma, Satapuri Amavasya etc. are observed in Nrusingha temple with great devotion.

History

When Kalapahad attacked Puri and was smashing Deities of various temples, he saw Shaanta Narasimha image and his anger subsided; hence he could not break the Deity as he had planned. Santa Narasimha’s features are human-like. He has a sharp human nose, a large curly mustache, and an outstretched tongue. Non-Hindus are not permitted in the temple, but the Deities are visible from the door.

Parshwadevatas

As per Pancharatra and Vaikhanasa the central idol of Vishnu should be surrounded by four side icons,whether be it Purusha,Satya,Achyuta,Aniruddha(Vaikhanasa) or Vasudeva,Samkarshana,Pradyumna,Aniruddha(Pancharatra).Here also simillar patern is followed where the main deity Nrisimha faces west direction,and other deities are surrounded as follows.
The three sides central niches of the side of Vimana house the images of Varaha, Trivikrama(Vamana) and Vishnu as the Parsvadevatas of the main presiding deity.The image of Varaha is the Parsvadevata of the southern side.He holds Chakra in his uplifted back right upper hand while his lower left hand holds a conch above Goddess Prithvi.The Parsvadevata on the northern side niche is Trivikrama.The four handed image of Trivikrama has been installed on the double petalled lotus pedestal. He holds gada in right upper hand, lotus flower in right lower hand, chakra in left upper hand and conch in left lower hand respectively. Figures of Sridevi and Bhudevi are flanked on either side of deity. The right leg of deity is set firmly on the ground and another uplifted left foot touches the image of Brahma. Beneath his uplifted leg is a scene of Bali who is presenting the gift to Vamana while Shukracharya lifts his hands up in dismay.The image of four handed Vishnu is the Parsvadevata of the eastern or backside central niche of the main deity.The central deity is the Ugra Nrisimha inside the Garbhagriha and Shanta Nrisimha facing west is the first expansion of the Ugra Nrisimha.Finally the five images equate as per the traditional Vaishnava Agama shastra.

 

Om Tat Sat

                                                        

(Continued...)                                                                                                                              

(My humble  salutations to the great devotees ,  wikisources  and Pilgrimage tourist guide for the collection )