During the month of Shravan, devotees undertake pilgrimages to various Shiva Temples. The Kanwariya Yatra is a significant event during Shravan month. People visit Shiva temples in large number during this time. There are many Shiva Temples in Odisha. Among all, the Ashtashambhu Temples are very significant.
Ashtashambhu Temples are a group of eight ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Six of the Ashtashambhu Temples are in Bargarh district. These temples are historically significant. The heritage structures attract both devotees and history enthusiasts. These temples were built during the Chauhan rule of the undivided Sambalpur region, with some attributed to rulers like Maharaja Baliar Singh and others to Ajit Singh and Abhaya Singh.
Six of the temples located in Bargarh district are:
• Kedarnath Temple at Ambabhona- This temple is situated at the foot of Barapahad. It is 35 km away from the district headquarters. This place is surrounded by scenic natural beauty.
• Baidyanath Temple at Deogaon- This temple is of great artistic beauty. It is situated in Deogaon village that is 7 km away from Bargarh town.
• Nilakantheshwar Temple at Nilji- The temple has immense importance. It is situated in Nilji village of Bhatli block.
• Bisweshwar Temple at Saranda- The temple is in Saranda village of Attabira block. The temple is situated beside the national highway joining Bargarh and Sambalpur.
• Barada Balunkeshwar Temple at Gaisima- This temple was built in the 18th century. It is situated in Gaisima village that is 13 km away from the district headquarters.
• Swapneshwar Temple at Sorna- The place has great significance in the region. It is located in Sorna village of Attabira block.
The other two Ashtashambhu Temples are located in Sambalpur district. They are Bimaleshwar Temple at Huma and Mandhata Baba Temple at Maneswar.
Devotees visit these eight temples in a sequence especially in the Shravan month. The temples often make special arrangements, including barricades and queue systems to manage the large crowds during Shravan and other festive occasions.
Krittika Satpathy
Bargarh