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A Sacred Shakti Peetha Steeped in Legends
Located in the heart of Odisha, the Biraja Temple Jajpur draws countless devotees of Shaktism due to its timeless spiritual significance. Moreover, devotees recognize it as one of the revered Shakti Peethas. As per mythology, the temple marks the very spot where Devi Sati’s navel (nabhi) fell. Consequently, people often refer to it as “Navigaya.” Additionally, they consider the area sacred for performing Pinda Daan—ritual offerings made to ancestors.
To begin with, the temple was established in the 13th century by King Jajati II of the Somavamshi dynasty. Ever since, it has remained a vibrant spiritual hub and cultural landmark of Odisha.Mythical Origins: Birthplace of the Divine Feminine
As per texts like Skanda Purana, Brahmanda Purana, Vayu Purana, and even the Mahabharata, the Biraja Peetha is where Lord Brahma performed a yajna on the banks of the Vaitarani River, leading to the appearance of Devi Biraja. Worshipped as Mahishasuramardini, she embodies the eternal triumph of good over evil.
Uniquely, she is worshipped in a two-armed form—which is indeed a rarity in depictions of Durga. Specifically, she holdsIconography of Devi Biraja: Symbol of Adi Shakti
Notably, her crown is a masterpiece—featuring miniatures of Lord Ganesha, Vasuki (the serpent), Shivalinga, and the Moon. Each element symbolically affirms her as the Aadi Para Shakti. Furthermore, devotees simultaneously worship her as Savitri, Gayatri, and Saraswati. Additionally, they often equate her with Mahalaxmi, Mahakali, and Mahasaraswati—the divine feminine trinity.
Biraja Madala Panji: Odisha’s Living Religious Chronicle
Interestingly, one of the lesser-known facts is that Biraja Temple maintains the “Biraja Madala Panji,” a written record that documents temple rituals, festivals, and events—much like Puri’s Jagannath Panji. Moreover, locals use this record to calculate auspicious timings for religious observances.
The Unique Chariot Festival of Maa Biraja
Unlike any other Durga temple, Maa Biraja has her own Ratha Yatra. Introduced by the Somavamshi rulers, this festival is an extraordinary expression of Shakta rituals performed in a Brahmanical manner.
Festival Timeline:
- Sunia (Bhadrab Shukla Dwadashi): To begin with, the festival begins with Bilwa Barani, a tree-finding ritual
- Mulastami: Next, the foundation ritual of the chariot is performed
- Pratipada (Next Day of Mahalaya): Then, the Ratha Yatra starts with a replica idol of Devi Biraja
- For the following 9 days, the chariot continuously goes around the temple premises
- Finally, on the 9th night (Aparajita Puja), Devi slays Mahishasura and visits Lakhabindha Ground as Mahamari Devi
Singhadhwaja Ratha: A Temple on Wheels
- Name of Chariot: To begin with, devotees call the chariot Singhadhwaja (Lion-flag bearer)
- Height: It stands 45 hands tall and carries 12 wheels, each with 8 spokes
- Charioteer: Chaturmukha Brahma guides the chariot
- Cloth Colors: Moreover, devotees decorate it with red (Mahakali), white (Mahalaxmi), and black (Mahasaraswati) cloths
- Guardians: Additionally, Saraswati (protector), Brahmacharini (power), and celestial river goddesses guard the chariot
- Ratha Rakshak: Lord Vishnu and Narasimha serve as divine protectors of the chariot
- Horses: The divine horses—Asti, Bhaanti, Priya, Naama, and Rupa—pull the chariot
- Serpents: Likewise, Swarnachuda and Shankhachuda accompany the procession as sacred serpents
- Weapons & Vidyas: Finally, the chariot carries weapons like bow, arrow, sword, and tantric vidyas such as Sambhabi, Kadi, and Sadi
How to Reach Biraja Temple
- Location: Jajpur, Odisha
- Nearest Railway Station: Jajpur Keonjhar Road
- Connectivity: Well-connected by road and rail from Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Kolkata
People Also Ask: FAQs About Biraja Temple
1. What is the significance of the Biraja Temple Jajpur?
It’s a Shakti Peetha where Devi Sati’s navel fell. It holds mythological and cultural significance as a powerful center of Shaktism in Odisha.
2. Who is worshipped in Biraja Temple?
Devotees worship Devi Biraja, a two-armed form of Durga known as Mahishasuramardini, as Adi Shakti.
3. What is unique about Biraja Temple’s chariot festival?
Remarkably, Maa Biraja is the only goddess in Odisha who has her own Ratha Yatra. Moreover, the festival features elaborate rituals and a unique chariot called Singhadhwaja.
4. What is the “Biraja Madala Panji”?
In fact, it’s the temple’s own chronicle, recording rituals and events, much like the Jagannath Temple’s “Madala Panji.”
5. When is the best time to visit Biraja Temple?
Specifically during Navaratri and Ratha Yatra, which, in particular, begins from Pratipada after Mahalaya, the temple’s grandeur, therefore, is best experienced.
Why Every Spiritual Seeker Should Visit Biraja Temple
The Biraja Temple Jajpur is more than just a historical site—it’s a living embodiment of Shakti tradition, tantric rituals, and Odisha’s deep spiritual roots. From her two-armed Mahishasuramardini idol to the only goddess-led Ratha Yatra, everything about Biraja Devi reflects strength, grace, and divine power.
Whether you're a pilgrim, a culture lover, or a curious traveler, make sure to visit the Maa Biraja Temple in Jajpur. Immerse yourself in the unique blend of mythology, heritage, and devotion that defines this magnificent Shakti Peetha.
Plan your visit during Navaratri and witness Odisha's only chariot festival of a goddess—an experience that connects you with the divine like never before!