Tara Tarini Temple: A Spiritual Haven in Odisha
Tara Tarini Temple, one of the most significant Shakti Peethas of Adi Shakti in India, is located on Kumari Hills at the bank of the river Rushikulya in the Ganjam district of Odisha. The temple is dedicated to the Goddesses Tara and Tarini, who are considered to be the divine embodiments of power and strength. One of the four important Tantra Peethas and Shakti Peethas in India, the temple is one of the oldest Mother Goddess pilgrimage sites. It is believed that the temple dates back to the 8th century and has been a place of worship for centuries.
History & Legend
According to local legend, the temple is associated with the goddess Sati, the wife of Lord Shiva. When Lord Shiva's anger over the passing of his wife Sati erupted as the Tandava that would destroy the universe, Lord Vishnu's Sudarshan chakra slashed her body into fragments that scattered across the subcontinent. It is believed that the Goddess' breasts fell where the temple of Tara Tarini stands today.
Over the centuries, the temple has undergone several renovations and restorations. The temple was attacked and partially destroyed by the Mughal army in the 16th century, but it was later rebuilt. During the British colonial era, the temple became a center of resistance against the British, and several freedom fighters sought refuge in the temple during the freedom struggle.
The Tara Tarini Temple has also been recognized as an important cultural site by the Government of India. In 2017, the temple was included in the Swadesh Darshan scheme, which is a government initiative aimed at developing tourism infrastructure around important cultural and heritage sites in India.
Image Credits :Taratarini Temple
Architecture
The temple is renowned for its impressive architecture, which reflects the unique Kalinga style of temple construction. The temple is situated on a hilltop, and visitors must climb a flight of stairs to reach the main temple complex. The temple is built on a large platform, and its main entrance is flanked by two massive stone pillars.
The temple's main sanctum sanctorum, or garbhagriha, houses the idol of the goddess Tara Tarini. The idol is made of black granite and is believed to be several centuries old.
The temple also has several other shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities, including Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Ganesha. These shrines are also beautifully decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures.
One of the most impressive features of the temple's architecture is its unique dome-shaped roof, which is made of stone and has a diameter of over 22 feet. The roof is supported by four massive pillars, which are intricately carved with images of deities and mythical creatures.
Festivals and Celebrations
The Tara Tarini Temple is a popular destination for festivals and celebrations. The temple celebrates a number of festivals throughout the year, which attract large numbers of devotees and tourists from all over the country.
One of the most important festivals celebrated at the temple is the Chaitra Mela, which is held in the month of Chaitra (March-April) according to the Hindu calendar. The festival is celebrated over a period of nine days and is marked by elaborate rituals, prayers, and offerings to the goddess Tara Tarini. The festival culminates on the ninth day with a grand procession, which is led by the temple's priests and attended by thousands of devotees.
Another important festival celebrated at the temple is the Durga Puja, which is held in the month of Ashvin (September-October) according to the Hindu calendar. The festival is celebrated over a period of ten days and is marked by the worship of the goddess Durga. The temple is decorated with lights and flowers, and devotees offer prayers and offerings to the goddess.
The Makar Mela, held in the month of January, is also an important festival celebrated at the temple. The festival is dedicated to the worship of the sun god, and devotees take a holy dip in the nearby river to cleanse their sins.
Apart from these major festivals, the temple also celebrates other festivals such as Diwali, Holi, and Rath Yatra. These festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion by the temple's devotees.
Best Time To Visit
The Tara Tarini Temple can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit the temple is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and cool. During this time, the temperature in Odisha is comfortable, making it an ideal time to explore the temple and its surroundings.
Visiting the temple during the winter months also allows visitors to experience some of the most important festivals celebrated at the temple, including the Chaitra Mela and Durga Puja. These festivals attract a large number of devotees and visitors, and provide an opportunity to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of Odisha.
Image Credits :UdanKhatola
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport to the temple is the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is located around 200 kilometers away. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to the temple is the Berhampur Railway Station, which is located around 30 kilometers away. From the railway station, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
By Road: The temple is well-connected by road, and buses and taxis are easily available from major cities in Odisha. Visitors can also drive to the temple, as it is located on NH-16 and is easily accessible by road.
Once visitors reach the base of the hill, they can climb the stairs to reach the temple. There are around 999 stairs to climb, but visitors can also opt for the ropeway facility, which takes them directly to the temple complex.
Overall, reaching the Tara Tarini Temple is easy, and visitors can choose from various modes of transportation to reach the temple.
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