Maa Tharini Temple

Overview

Maa Tharini is one of the embodiments of Shakti and is one of the chief presiding Goddesses in Oriyan culture. Her primary shrine is in Ghatagaon, Keonjhar District, Orissa.

About The Deity

Maa Tharini is the presiding deity for all Shakti and Tantric shrines in Orissa. The practice of worship of the Earth as a female embodiment of power is found across many cultures all over the world.

Maa Tharini is depicted as a red face with two large eyes, a nose and also a tilak (vermilion). The letters in the background mean "Maa" or Mother in the Oriya. In this form she is very similar to the conception of the Goddess Kali at Kalighat.

Legend and Stories

Mythological accounts hold that King Bhanjha worshiped the Goddess for her blessings in a war to follow. Bhanjha was victorious and the Goddess was brought back to Puri. After the king of Keonjhar died, Bhanjha returned to his state and took the idol of the Goddess with him.

Maa Tharini agreed to follow Bhanjha provided he never looked backed all the way from Puri to Keonjhar. Bhanjha agreed and the two left on horseback. Near the Bai Tharini River in modern Keonjhar district, Bhanjha could no longer hear the following horse. He looked back. Maa halted then and there. She asked Bhanjha to construct her temple and worship her there.

Rituals

Abaskasha (The Morning Worship)

Maa Tharini’s daily rituals begin at 6 AM. Before the bath ritual, the idol is pasted with turmeric, Chua (kind of rough oil) and sandal paste. Then water is poured. Then the worship begins in midst of sound of ringing bells, Aarthi (offering of lit camphor) and is completed by the daily offerings of coconut, bananas and other sweets.

Khichudi Dhupa (Puja at Noon)

The second ritual, Khichedi Dhupa, is observed towards noon every day. Maa is offered Khichudi, a variety of rice with lintels and vegetables.

Arnna Dhupa (At Mid Day)

This is observed generally post-noon every day. Maa is offered Arnna (Rice), Dali or Dalma.

Prasad and Offering

Sandhya Dhupa (Evening Offering)

This is the last ritual before the temple is closed for the day. Chakuli Pitha (a variety of cake made from rice batter) is offered.

Festivals

Makara Sankranti, Maha Visubha Sankranti and Raja Sankranti are the festivals celebrated here.

Significance

Devotees from all over the country send thousands of coconuts to the temple every day. It’s believed that offering a coconut to the Goddess brings wishes true.

Accessibility

Airport

Bhubaneswar Biju Patnaik Airport is the nearest airport.

Railways

Jaipur Road station is the nearest railway station.

Road

There is a good road network in the state connecting it with the other parts of the country as well as different places within the state.

Temple Address