Location
- The temple is located in Sasanga
village, Baramba tehsil, Cuttack district, Odisha.
- It sits beautifully on the banks
of the Mahanadi River, about 10 km from Badamba and 82 km
from Cuttack city.
Presiding Deity & Sub
Shrines
- The main deity is Maa Bhattarika,
a fierce and protective form of Goddess Durga, worshipped as a
manifestation of Shakti.
- According to legend, Parashurama
prayed to Durga here for divine aid against Saharsrajuna, making this site
spiritually potent.
- The temple complex also includes:
- A shrine for Baba Parashurama
in yoga mudra
- Nearby temples like Astha Lakshmi
Temple and scenic spots like Dabarkhola Waterfall and Deojhar
Waterfall
Temple Highlights
- Shakti Peetha Status:
One of the 12 prominent Shakti Peethas in Odisha, drawing thousands
of pilgrims year-round.
- Festivals:
- Durga Puja
and Dussehra are celebrated with grandeur, especially on Maha
Ashtami.
- Pana Sankranti,
Akshaya Tritiya, and Makar Sankranti are also observed with
rituals and community gatherings.
- Buffalo Sacrifice:
A traditional offering during Durga Puja, symbolizing devotion and
protection.
- Scenic Beauty:
The temple offers panoramic views of the Mahanadi River and
surrounding hills, making it a spiritual and visual retreat.
- Religious Vows: Devotees often pledge offerings or actions to fulfill personal wishes, a practice deeply rooted in local faith.
History &
Significance
- According to Puranic tradition,
Parashurama, the warrior sage and sixth avatar of Vishnu, prayed to
Goddess Durga at this site when facing defeat against Saharsrajuna.
The goddess is believed to have manifested here to empower him, making
this temple a symbol of divine intervention and protection.
- Maa Bhattarika is worshipped as a
fierce and benevolent form of Shakti, and the temple is considered
one of the 12 prominent Shakti Peethas in Odisha.
- Locally, the temple is also referred
to as Tarini Pitha, linking it to the broader tradition of goddess
worship in the region.
Rituals & Festivals
Daily Rituals
- Worship begins as early as 3 AM,
with offerings of fish, khechudi (rice dish), and pitha (rice cakes)
made to the goddess.
- Devotees often take religious vows,
pledging offerings or actions in exchange for blessings.
Major Festivals
- Durga Puja & Dussehra:
The most significant celebration, especially on Maha Ashtami, when
thousands gather for rituals and buffalo sacrifice—a traditional offering
symbolizing devotion.
- Pana Sankranti (April):
Marks the Odia New Year and is celebrated with fervor.
- Akshaya Tritiya (May):
Associated with prosperity and new beginnings.
- Makar Sankranti (January):
Celebrated with seasonal rituals and community gatherings.
- Mulastami to Dussehra:
A sacred period during which the goddess is believed to manifest through
the temple priest (Agrapujaka) on Ashtami day.
Temple Hours
- Morning:
5:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Evening: 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Getting Here
- Location:
Sasanga village, Baramba tehsil, Cuttack district, Odisha
- By Road:
- Well connected via buses, taxis, and
private vehicles
- Nearest bus stop: Badamba,
about 10 km from the temple
- By Train:
- Nearest railway station: Cuttack,
approximately 80 km away
- By Air:
- Nearest airport: Biju Patnaik
International Airport, Bhubaneswar, around 96 km from the
temple
Tips
- Best Time to Visit:
During Durga Puja, Makar Sankranti, or Pana Sankranti
for vibrant rituals and crowds
- Scenic Views:
Don’t miss the Mahanadi riverbank viewpoint and nearby Dabarkhola
Waterfall for a nature-spiritual combo
- Photography:
Allowed in outer areas; check with temple staff before capturing inner
sanctum
- Essentials: Carry water, snacks, and sun protection if visiting during peak hours
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