Located in the ancient town of Jajpur in Odisha, the Biraja Temple Jajpur is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Biraja, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. This temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and holds immense significance in Hindu mythology. Also known as the Biraja Kshetra, Jajpur is often referred to as the “Navigaya” due to its importance in the performance of religious rites for ancestors.
The temple’s presiding deity, Goddess Biraja, is depicted as a two-armed deity spearing the chest of a demon with one hand and holding a trident in the other. She stands on a lion, symbolizing divine power and protection. The temple complex, surrounded by age-old traditions and historical grandeur, attracts thousands of devotees every year who seek spiritual solace and blessings.
The temple’s spiritual atmosphere is further enhanced by the scenic beauty of Jajpur, which is adorned with numerous other temples and religious sites. Pilgrims visiting the temple also explore the sacred Baitarani River, believed to have spiritual purification properties. The Biraja Temple Jajpur remains one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Odisha, preserving its religious and cultural heritage for centuries.
Biraja Temple
Biraja Temple Jajpur History
The Biraja Temple Jajpur has a rich and ancient history dating back to the early medieval period. It is believed that the temple was originally built during the reign of the Kesari dynasty in the 13th century, though references to the temple are found in much earlier Hindu scriptures. The Skanda Purana, Brahmanda Purana, and Markandeya Purana mention this sacred site, highlighting its importance in Hindu mythology.
Historically, Jajpur was an important religious and cultural hub during the rule of the Kalinga kingdom. The temple was reconstructed and renovated multiple times under different rulers, with each contributing to its architectural beauty and religious significance.
It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya, the great Hindu philosopher, visited the temple and recognized it as a major Shakti Peetha, further elevating its prominence in the Hindu pilgrimage circuit. The temple also played a crucial role in the Tantric traditions of Eastern India, attracting sages and devotees who practiced spiritual and religious rituals here.
Over the centuries, the temple has withstood various invasions and natural calamities, yet it remains a stronghold of Odisha’s spiritual heritage. Today, it continues to be a symbol of divine strength, drawing devotees from across the country.
Biraja Temple Jajpur Story
The Biraja Temple Jajpur is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and is associated with the Shakti Peetha legend. According to the Puranas, when Goddess Sati self-immolated during the Daksha Yajna, Lord Shiva, in grief, carried her charred body across the universe. To restore cosmic balance, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to cut her body into 51 parts, which fell in different locations, forming the sacred Shakti Peethas.
At Jajpur, it is believed that Sati’s navel (nabhi) fell, making it one of the most powerful Shakti Peethas. This is why Goddess Biraja is also known as Nabhi Gaya Peetha. Devotees believe that worshipping here grants liberation to ancestors and helps in spiritual upliftment.
Another legend connects the temple with Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura. In this form, Biraja Devi is depicted as Mahishasuramardini, the slayer of the demon Mahishasura. This divine episode is depicted in the temple’s main sanctum, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and reinforcing the temple’s spiritual power.
Biraja Temple Jajpur Architecture
The Biraja Temple Jajpur exhibits a unique blend of Kalinga-style architecture, characterized by its intricate stone carvings, towering spire (vimana), and majestic entrance gate. The temple stands on an elevated platform and is adorned with magnificent sculptures depicting various deities and mythological themes.
The main sanctum (garbhagriha) houses the idol of Goddess Biraja, standing gracefully on a lion, holding a trident, and piercing the demon with her spear. The temple also features beautifully carved pillars, ornate doorways, and a spacious mandapa (hall) where devotees gather for prayers.
Apart from the main shrine, the temple complex consists of several smaller temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and various forms of Goddess Durga. The presence of ancient lingams, inscriptions, and yajna kundas (sacred fire pits) further adds to the temple’s historical and religious significance.
Biraja Temple Jajpur Spiritual Significance
The Biraja Temple Jajpur is considered a highly sacred pilgrimage site, attracting thousands of devotees who seek blessings for prosperity, spiritual enlightenment, and liberation from sins. As one of the Shakti Peethas, the temple holds immense power and is believed to fulfill the wishes of sincere devotees.
Many pilgrims visit the temple to perform pind daan (rituals for ancestors), believing that offerings made here grant salvation to departed souls. The temple’s association with Tantric practices also makes it a hub for spiritual seekers who engage in meditation and ritualistic worship.
Devotees also believe that worshipping Goddess Biraja removes obstacles, grants good health, and brings overall well-being. The temple remains a stronghold of Odisha’s deep-rooted religious traditions and continues to inspire devotion across generations.
Biraja Temple Jajpur Festivals and Celebrations
Several major Hindu festivals are celebrated at the Biraja Temple Jajpur with grandeur, attracting thousands of devotees:
- Durga Puja: This is the grandest celebration, where the temple hosts a 16-day-long Sharadiya Durga Puja, unlike the traditional 9-day festival observed elsewhere.
- Navaratri: Devotees observe fasting and perform special pujas to seek divine blessings.
- Makar Sankranti: Ritual baths in the Baitarani River and temple visits mark this auspicious occasion.
- Mahashivaratri: The temple also holds special prayers for Lord Shiva, attracting Shaivite devotees.
- Kartik Purnima: Pilgrims take a holy dip in the river and participate in religious activities.
Biraja Temple Jajpur Timings
The temple follows a strict schedule to accommodate daily prayers and rituals:
- Opening Time: 4:00 AM
- Morning Aarti and Puja: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Afternoon Break: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Evening Puja: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Closing Time: 9:30 PM
Biraja Temple Jajpur Nearest Railway Station
The nearest railway station to Biraja Temple Jajpur is Jajpur Keonjhar Road Railway Station (JJKR), located approximately 30 km from the temple. Regular taxis, buses, and auto-rickshaws are available for convenient transportation.
Biraja Temple Jajpur Nearest Airport
The closest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, approximately 120 km from Jajpur. From the airport, visitors can hire cabs or take buses to reach the temple conveniently.
Biraja Temple Jajpur Accommodation
Several accommodation options are available near the temple, ranging from budget lodges to mid-range hotels. Dharamshalas and guesthouses managed by temple authorities provide affordable lodging for pilgrims.