Maa Samaleswari has been worshiped from ancient times by different names like Jagatjanani, Adishakti, Mahalaxmi and Mahasaraswati. Maa Samaleswari Temple is located in Sambalpur, Odisha. The goddess presiding here is known as ‘MAA’ whereas some natives also call her ‘’SAMALEI MAA’’ which means Mother Samaleswari. People from western part of Odisha and Chhattisgarh are very strongly connected to her in terms of religion.
History:
Though people still don’t know the origin story of Maa Samaleswari it is believed that the Chouhan King Balaram Dev who ruled in 1542 AD made Maa Samaleswari as the deity of Sambalpur.
It is also said that one day while hunting King Balaram Dev saw that his dogs were being repulsed by a hare. He was shocked that how can a submissive animal be so bold and that’s when he was convinced that there is divine power which comes from Maa Samaleswari.
The temple has an influence of both Tribal and Tantra. The main priests are also the descendants of Chouhan Dynasty.
Festivals:
Some of the most important festivals are Nuakhai i.e., the harvest festival where newly harvested rice is offered to the goddess, Mahavisuba Sankranti i.e., when Sati savitri brought back her husband’s life by worshipping Goddess Durga and the last one is Saradiya Durga Puja which starts from the day of Mahalaya and goes on for 9 days.
How to Reach:
Air- Nearest airport is Jharsugda (62km).
Road- Sambalpur is well connected with other parts of the state by road.
Rail- The nearest Railway Station is Sambalpur.
COVER PHOTO CREDIT: Travellian Mahesh
