Maa Tarini Temple

Introduction to Maa Tarini Temple

One of the most sacred destinations in Ghatgaon, Keonjhar district, is the popular Maa Tarini Temple. It is the largest and the most visited Shakti Peeth in Odisha. This place is famously known as Ghatgaon Maa Tarini Peeth. As the temple lies within a forest, pilgrims can see various animals during their visit. Many people also come here for a one-day picnic. This ancient temple complex houses the powerful deity Maa Tarini, the divine consort of Shiva. Maa Tarini Temple lies on a hilltop surrounded by dense forests, and the panoramic views from the top are breathtaking.

Legend of Maa Tarini Temple

The temple has a legend that dates back to ancient times. According to folklore, the ruler of Keonjhar state, Sri Gobinda Bhanjadeo, installed the deity in 1480. During the Kanchi War, the ruler of Puri chose Sri Gobinda Bhanjadeo as Senapati. Under his leadership, they were able to conquer Kanchi. As a reward, Sri Purusottam Dev wished to bring Maa Tarini, along with the deities, Madanmohan and Raghunathjew, to Puri.

Sri Gobinda asked the King to take Maa Tarini with him to Keonjhar. He also prayed to the deity for her consent. She agreed on the condition that Sri Gobinda wouldn't look back to see her. He heard the sound of her horse's hooves on the way from Puri to Keonjhar. But inside the forest, the sound stopped. He thought Maa had stopped. But she was there; however, due to the forest mud, he hadn't been able to hear the sound of the hooves.

When he turned back to look at her, she turned into a stone at Ghatgaon, where she is now installed. Though she forgave him, she said she would stay only in the forest and asked Sri Gobinda to worship her there.

The Architecture of Maa Tarini Temple

The temple is believed to have been built in the 14th century. In 1970, the Orissa Hindu Religious Endowment Department of the Government of Orissa was in charge of deity management. It formed a 'Board of Non-hereditary-Trustees' under the provision of the O.H.R.E. Act. In 1980, the Trust Board constructed the present temple. The deity Maa Tarini is revered as the protector of the village and its people.

It is situated among natural surroundings with abundant wildlife. Dense forests filled with enormous trees are its unique features. The Maa Tarini Temple has a unique Kalinga style of architecture.

Beautiful shades of orange and white stones adorn the outer surface and walls of the temple. Devotees must pass through a grand arched gateway to enter it. They should climb up a colossal staircase that leads to the temple. The temple complex consists of many smaller shrines dedicated to other deities.

Pilgrims can see intricate carvings, various deities' sculptures, and Hindu mythology scenes. Sandstone has been used to build the Maa Tarini Temple. It has an elegant structure with a thatched roof. The main deity, Maa Tarini, is made of black stone. She is adorned with sindoor, beautiful jewelry, and flamboyant clothing.

The temple has a large courtyard where the people perform various religious ceremonies and events. Devotees can see a lush green garden and a pond around the temple, which lends a serene ambiance.

Festivals in Maa Tarini Temple

Chaiti Yatra and Patua Yatra are the most popular festivals celebrated here in April. Makara Sankranti, Raja Sankranti, Maha Vishuba Sankranti, Asadhi Parba, and Durga Pooja (Shardiya Navratri) are some of the other festivals. The famous Suna besha of Maa Tarini is held on these occasions. Other Hindu festivals are also celebrated in the Maa Tarini Temple.

Benefits of Praying at Maa Tarini Temple

Devotees believe that praying to the deity and offering her coconut on Tuesday or Saturday will please her and fulfill their desires.