Manikeshwari temple is located in the Bhawanipatna, Kalahandi district of Odisha and is of great importance among the fisherman community. The main deity which is worshipped here is Goddess Manikeshwari and during the Dussehra festival, animal sacrifice takes place to and is offered to the Goddess.
Interesting Fact:
A film has also been documented showing the animal sacrifice at Goddess Manikeshwari.
There are several other temples of Goddess Manikeshwari in Odisha such as in Bhawanipatna, Himgir, Paralakhemundi, Thuamul Rampur and Jugasaipatna.
Though the temple is of great significance in Odisha and Chhattisgarh it has not been appreciated fully till now.
Festivals:
Chattar Jatra is the famous festival of Goddess Manikeshwari in Bhawanipatna where people from different parts come and do animal sacrifice as a mark of respect and devotion after their wishes have been fulfilled. This festival is celebrated during September- October at the time of Durga Puja.
How to Reach
Bhawanipatna is well connected through other major cities via regular buses.
Cover Photo Credit: Esta Devi
