Table of Contents
Introduction – A Sacred Seat of Shakti in Odisha
The Origin of Maa Manikeswari – Goddess of Ruby
The very name “Manikeswari” has deep meaning. Derived from Manikya (Ruby), it reflects Kalahandi’s fame as a land rich in gemstones like ruby, sapphire, and emerald. Legends say that the Chindaka Nagas of the 12th–13th century worshipped her as Manikya Devi, and later the Ganga kings and Naga rulers of Kalahandi accepted her as their Kuladevi.
People believe that the real and more powerful idol of Maa Manikeswari is kept inside the King’s Palace, while the temple houses the form worshipped by the masses. This secret, therefore, adds to the aura and mystery surrounding her presence.The Temple Architecture – Rekha Deula Grandeur
- It stands 56 feet tall, and at the same time follows the Rekha Deula style of Odishan temple architecture.
- The temple complex includes shrines of Vaishnavi, Narasimhi, Varahi, as well as Budharaja (Bhairava).
- The deity is worshipped in the Ekakshara Mantra of Kali, thereby linking her strongly with the Shakta parampara.
Chhatra Yatra – The Festival of Awe and Devotion
The Chhatra Yatra of Manikeswari is the biggest annual celebration in Kalahandi, held during Durga Puja Navaratri, and the rituals are both fascinating and chilling.
- On Mahastami midnight, Maa leaves the sanctum and travels to Jenakhal, and thereafter begins the sacred journey.
- At dawn of Mahanavami, the symbolic Chhatra (umbrella) returns with a massive procession known as Chhatra Yatra, while thousands gather to witness the divine spectacle.
- The event features Ghumura dance, tribal folk performances, and lakhs of devotees offering prayers, thereby turning the festival into a grand cultural expression.
Personal Spiritual Experience – A Visit That Changed Me
A few years ago, I visited Manikeswari Temple during Navaratri. The moment I entered, I felt an unexplainable heaviness in the air—as if the deity’s presence was more intense than in any other temple I had seen.
Locals whispered that the true idol resides inside the King’s Palace, and that it is much more vibrant and active than the one we see. When I heard about the thousands of cattle sacrificed during Chhatra Yatra, I was honestly traumatized, especially since some even told me that in ancient times, human sacrifices were offered.
That day, I realized that this place is not just a temple but rather a living embodiment of Odisha’s Shakta culture, blending devotion, fear, power, and mystery. The aura of Maa Manikeswari, therefore, truly lingers long after you leave Bhawanipatna.Manikeswari Beyond Bhawanipatna – Other Shrines
While Bhawanipatna houses the main shrine, Maa Manikeswari is also worshipped in various other places, such as:
- Jugasaipatna
- Thuamul Rampur
- Sonepur
- Kashipur
- Paralakhemundi