Bali Harachandi Temple, Odisha

Address

Bali Harachandi Temple, Odisha

Harachandi Rd, Narasinghpatana, Sipasurubili,

Odisha 752011

Amman

Goddess Durga

Introduction

• Located 27 km south-west of Puri, near the mouth of the Bhargavi River.
• Situated on a sandy hill near the sea, at Baliharachandi village.
• Temple is 1 km from Palanka village and 5 km east of Kathuari Chowk on N.H. 203 (Puri to Satapada road).
• Goddess Durga is worshiped here as Baliharachandi.

Puranic Significance:

• Believed to have been constructed in the 8th century, around the time when the Jagannath Temple in Puri was built.
• Bali Harachandi is considered one of the Asta-saktis (eight powerful goddesses) of Odisha.
• The temple is a significant Sakta Pitha in the Puri District.
• Associated with the Jagannath Temple, especially on Mahanavami Day in the month of Asvina, when devotees visiting Lord Alarnath Temple also visit Bali Harachandi.
• The presiding deity is Asta-Bhuja Mahisamardini Durga (eight-armed Durga) worshiped as Bali Harachandi.
• Goddess Bali Harachandi is regarded as the goddess of water and navigation, protecting boatmen and fishermen from dangers at sea.
• The temple is a protected monument under the Odisha State Archaeology and Endowment Department.

Special Features:

• The temple is located in a picturesque area, surrounded by forests, river, sand, and beach.
• Devotees experience the grace and presence of Goddess Durga in this serene location.
• The temple attracts devotees from all over India and abroad, especially due to its location between the Jagannath Temple of Puri and the Alarnath Temple of Brahmagiri.
• The temple site is one of the important spots in Odisha.

Festivals:

• Raja Festival is one of the main celebrations at the temple, observed for 4 days:
  • Day 1: Goddess Bali Harachandi is worshipped and dressed as Kumari.
  • Day 2: Goddess is worshipped as Devi Mahalaxmi.
  • Day 3: Goddess is worshipped as Devi Saraswati.
  • Day 4: Goddess is worshipped as Devi Mahakali.

Century/Period

 8th century

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

Nearest Bus Station

Harachandi

Nearest Railway Station

Puri Station

Nearest Airport

Bhubaneswar

Location on Map

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