Maa Bhattarika Temple – Odisha’s Sacred Shakti Peetha on the Mahanadi

 

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