This ancient temple is located at Hirapur just on the outskirts of Bhubaneshwar city Chausathi Jogini Temple. Also known locally as the Mahamaya mandir, this temple is home to 56 idols made of black granite arranged in a circle facing the center. 7 more idols are situated in the central altar facing the four cardinal directions, making the total number of idols as 63. The missing 8th idol is said to have been taken to some place called Yamankunda. The temple itself is made of sandstone.
The central altar holds an idol of the Goddess Kali, which stands upon a man’s head, signifying the triumph of the heart over the mind. This central altar is called a chandi mandap. Similar temples can be seen in Balangir and seven other sites in India.
The temple is said to have been commissioned by Queen Hiradei of the Bramha dynasty in the 9th century AD. The village was originally called Hiradeipur in her name, which was later shortened to Hirapur.
This is a tantric temple with no roof. It was abandoned as Shiva and Vishnu worshipping cults rose to prominence and Shakti worshippers declined. The temple is said to be one of the many destroyed by the Afghan invader Kalapahad in the 16th century. The site was rediscovered in 1953 by eminent historian Kedarnath Mohapatra, painstakingly restored and is now protected by the Archeological Survey of India (ASI).
Chausathi Jogini Temple
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How to Reach it?
You can reach this temple by the Tankapani Road out of Bhubaneshwar. The closest airport and railway station are both in Bhubaneshwar.
The drive will take only 20 minutes. However visiting times are restricted from 6 am to 7 pm.
| Location | Hirapur |
| Closest Airport | Bhubaneshwar |
| Closest Railway Station | Bhubaneshwar |
| Distance from Closest Station | 9.5 km |
| Visiting times | 6 AM to 7 PM daily |
Deep within the mystical lands of Odisha, the Chausathi Jogini Temple stands as a testament to the ancient worship of the divine feminine energy, revered as Shakti. This sacred temple, steeped in history and myth, beckons devotees and curious souls alike to immerse themselves in its sacred aura and discover the power and beauty of the goddesses it pays homage to.
As you approach this remarkable architectural marvel, you are greeted by a circular enclosure adorned with sixty-four stone sculptures, each representing a unique manifestation of the divine feminine. These life-sized idols, known as Joginis, exude grace, strength, and spiritual presence. Their intricate carvings, intricate hairstyles, and detailed expressions boast the craftsmanship of the artisans who brought these deities to life.
Stepping into the temple’s hallowed space, you feel a surge of energy, as if the goddesses themselves are embracing you with their divine presence. The air is filled with a mixture of incense, floral fragrances, and the soft murmurs of devotees offering prayers and seeking blessings. The atmosphere is thick with devotion and reverence, inviting you to connect with the eternal feminine power, an embodiment of strength, compassion, and creativity.
As you explore the temple’s sanctums, each dedicated to a specific Jogini, you’ll find yourself drawn into their individual stories and symbolism. The goddesses, representing various aspects of life and nature, empower visitors to embrace different facets of womanhood and find inspiration in their timeless wisdom. From fertility and abundance to knowledge and courage, the Joginis symbolize the multifaceted nature of the divine feminine.
Beyond its religious significance, the Chausathi Jogini Temple serves as a cultural and historical treasure trove, offering insights into Odisha’s rich heritage. The temple’s rituals, festivals, and artistic elements celebrate the region’s vibrant traditions and deep-rooted connection with femininity. It serves as a reminder of the harmonious balance between masculine and feminine energies, and the value of embracing diversity and inclusivity.
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For those seeking spiritual awakening or an immersion into Odisha’s cultural tapestry, Chausathi Jogini Temple stands as a profound destination. Within its sacred confines, visitors find solace, inspiration, and a renewed understanding of the inherent power found within every woman. It is a place where devotees, history enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers can pay homage to the divine feminine energy that flows through all of creation, and behold the timeless beauty of this ancient Shakti temple.
